Windows Vista: 32 Bit vs 64 Bit

[foodfightr]

So, I recently recieved my NFR copy of Vista Ultimate for participating in the Intel Retail Edge. I'm trying to decide if I should install 32 or 64 bit. I'm definately going to install one or the other, I'm just trying to decide which. My machine is 50% for work and 50% for gaming.

Also... if I use my product key to activate one and then I want to switch to the other (both discs came with it) will I be able to?

 

[RebateMonger]

Historically, NFR versions of Windows have been similar to Retail in their licensing behavior. You could transfer the license to another PC and you could certainly re-install the OS without consequences. Vista Retail versions allow you to re-install from 32- to 64-bit. So I'm guessing you can do the same with an NFR license.

I haven't looked hard at Microsoft Vista's EULAs lately, but you could. When you start the install process, you should be able to view the EULA.

One change that's apparently been made with Vista's EULA is that Microsoft has finally allowed NFR versions to actually be USED for something other than "evaluation". Past EULAs have had a vague, "Only for evaluation purposes" in their EULA. Which most everybody has (safely) ignored, including Microsoft representatives who hand out the NFR software.

 

[Van G]

If you've got a key for each edition, you'll be able to use both. I've started using 64-bit version and like it so far.

 

[RebateMonger]

Originally posted by: Van G
If you've got a key for each edition, you'll be able to use both. I've started using 64-bit version and like it so far.

A Retail-version Key should be good for either a 32-bit install or a 64-bit install. All you need is a 64-bit Vista DVD.

 

[foodfightr]

so.... which one should I install?

eh

 

[Pwnbroker]

I would guess from discussion on these forums, since you're using it for business, that the 32-bit version would be most compatible with any software you may have.

 

[RebateMonger]

Originally posted by: foodfightr
so.... which one should I install? eh

If you want to make life easy on yourself, I'd install the 32-bit version.

 

[yhelothar]

32-bit.
I installed the 64-bit on my core2duo/2GB system, and it ran like a sloth. It was buggy and slow.
I reinstalled it with the 32-bit version, and this thing just flies.
64-bit is just too premature now at this stage.