jellymonster

Ok, my PC specs are in my signiture and I am wondering whether it is worth installing a 64 bit operating system. I am in the process of overclocking my CPU and GPU at these forums:
http://www.overclock.net/nvidia/4373...a-9800gtx.html
http://www.overclock.net/intel-cpus/...m-4-630-a.html
But as you can probably see, my CPU is the major weak spot in my system. I am not wanting a new CPU yet as said in the CPU forum but I do want a bit more out the one I have.
So firstly I was wondering if it is worth purchasing a 64 bit operating system for gaming over the 32 bit one (I am going to dual boot) and what performance difference it is going to make. Also game compatability with 64 bit OS's.

If it is worth getting 64 bit, shall I get Vista (I prefer vista atm) with directx 10 and PC spec thirsty. Or XP which has directX 9 and less thirsty on my PC specs. I'm not sure of the differences between Directx 9 and 10, but my guess is 10 is better.

dralb

Since you have 4gb (and even if you didn't) go with 64 bit. There is a limit to tyhe amount od adressable RAM with 32 bit (3.25gb iirc), so you will benefit from 64 bit.


edit: I will agree that your CPU is a weak spot. Any low end conroe or wolfdale would be an improvement. If you are buying an OS, I would almost get a CPU first.

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error10

You should have moved to 64 bit already.

Since you already have Vista, visit the link in my sig to get 64-bit media from Microsoft.

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stanrc

If your CPU can support 64 bit then use it.

Check out the link in my sig for a more in depth comparison.

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smorgan

64>>>32 any day of the week. but i agree with higher up post, a wolfdale or conroe would be really nice upgrade

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jellymonster

Well definately going to install 64 bit OS now, thanks for the persuasion.

Should I go for Vista or is it not worth it?
Also, what's the compatability like for games in 64 bit? or is it the same as 32 bit?

IEATFISH

Vista 64 has been great. Game compatibility is usually very good, except on old games. Even then, there are relatively few problems. People expect operating systems to be 100% backwards compatible but it just doesn't work like that. Nothing would ever move ahead.

I really like Vista. You should go for Home Premium as Ultimate really isn't worth it. I have both and can't really tell a difference.

http://www.microsoft.com/windows/win...s/default.aspx

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jellymonster

Excellent, Home Premium Vista it is then. Thankyou all for your replys, it has been tonnes of help.

meticadpa

Games are fine for 64bit and go vista because xp 64bit was a load of pish. Get a new CPU as well something like the E7300 that'd be an awesome as hell upgrade on the P4

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jellymonster

That would be a pretty awesome upgrade. However I was actually thinking of going Quad Core like the Q9300. Unless anyone has a different point of view that is so far my favourite. My price limit is about £200, think that's about $400 but not sure.