ExplainerSoftware Installation

32-bit, 64-bit or ARM: which version do I need?

Download pages often ask you to pick 32-bit, 64-bit or ARM. Here is what the choices mean and how to check which one your Windows PC or Mac needs.

  • Updated
  • 6 min
  • Beginner
Applies to
  • Windows 11
  • Windows 10
  • Mac

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Many download pages offer several versions of the same program, such as 64-bit, 32-bit or ARM. Learn what those labels mean and how to find out which one your Windows PC or Mac needs.

Windows 10 no longer gets security updates

Microsoft ended support for Windows 10 on October 14, 2025. If your PC still runs it, avoid banking and email on it where you can, and plan to move to a supported system. The checks below still work.

The core idea

The processor (the main chip) in your device understands one family of instructions. A program has to be built for that family. The labels on download pages name the families:

  • 32-bit (often written x86): the older kind of PC program. It is rare on new computers.
  • 64-bit (written x64 or AMD64): the standard for modern Intel and AMD PCs. Microsoft says Windows 11 is 64-bit only.
  • ARM (written ARM64): a different chip family. Some Windows PCs use it, and so do phones, tablets and Macs with Apple silicon.
Finding the right download3 numbered steps, one under the other. The full text follows the picture.Finding the right download1CheckLook up your system type orchip2MatchPick the download with thesame label3InstallRun the file from the maker'sown site
Do the check once and reuse the answer.
Text version of this diagram
  1. Check: Look up your system type or chip
  2. Match: Pick the download with the same label
  3. Install: Run the file from the maker's own site

Check a Windows PC

  1. Open Start then Settings then System then About.
  2. Under Device specifications, find System type.
  3. Read the line. Typical wording is one of these:
    • 64-bit operating system, x64-based processor: choose the 64-bit (x64) download.
    • 32-bit operating system: choose the 32-bit (x86) download.
    • A line containing ARM-based processor: you have an Arm PC. Choose the ARM64 download if the maker offers one.

The exact wording of the line can vary a little between versions, so look for the numbers 32 or 64 and the word ARM.

Arm PCs and older programs

Windows 11 can run on Arm processors. Many programs have an Arm version. If a program has no Arm version, check the maker's own site or support pages to see whether it works on your PC before you rely on it. Chrome, for example, lists Windows 11 on an ARM processor as supported.

Can I switch from 32-bit to 64-bit?

Not through a simple upgrade. Microsoft says moving from 32-bit to 64-bit Windows means reformatting the disk, installing 64-bit Windows and reinstalling everything else. Your processor must also support 64-bit. Only consider this if you have a backup and a reason to do it. See Windows 11 system requirements and upgrade first.

Check a Mac

Macs come in two families: older Macs with an Intel processor, and newer Macs with Apple's own chips (Apple silicon). Apple's own page gives this check.

  1. Select the Apple menu in the top-left corner of the screen.
  2. Choose About This Mac.
  3. Look at the window. A line labeled Chip followed by a chip name means Apple silicon. A line labeled Processor followed by an Intel name means an Intel Mac.

On a download page, choose the Apple silicon (sometimes shown as ARM64, M-series or Arm) file for a Mac with a Chip line. Choose the Intel file for a Mac with a Processor line. A file labeled Universal works on both.

Intel apps on Apple silicon

Apple's translation tool, Rosetta, lets a Mac with Apple silicon run apps built only for Intel. Apple says it works on macOS 27 or earlier, and that starting with macOS 28 it will cover only certain older games. Apple recommends replacing Intel-only apps with a Universal or Apple silicon version. In the Finder, select an app and choose File, then Get Info. The Kind line shows Intel, Universal or Apple silicon.

Phones and tablets

Phones and tablets handle this for you. The App Store and Google Play pick the right version for your device. The choice only comes up if you install an app file by hand, as described in EXE, MSI, DMG, PKG and APK files explained.

What this means for you

  • On a Windows PC, most people need 64-bit (x64), unless the System type line says ARM.
  • If the page offers only one download button, the site has usually picked for you. Check the label before you install.
  • If you install the wrong version, it usually will not start, or the installer will say your system is not supported. Remove it and download the right one. See app won't install or run.
  • Always get the file from the maker's site. See how to install software safely.

Frequently asked questions

Is 64-bit faster than 32-bit?

Not by itself. The main difference is that 64-bit systems can use more memory, and modern Windows 11 requires 64-bit hardware.

My download page says "x64". Is that the same as 64-bit?

Yes. On Windows, x64 means 64-bit for Intel and AMD processors. ARM64 is a different 64-bit family and is a separate download.

Can I run a 32-bit program on 64-bit Windows?

Often yes, but that depends on the program and the Windows version. Choose the 64-bit version when the maker offers one.

Where is this setting on a Chromebook?

You do not need to choose. Chromebooks install apps through the Play Store or the Chrome Web Store for you.

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