To check whether your computer is 32-bit or 64-bit, open Settings > System > About and read the System type line. If your PC runs Windows 11, the answer is always 64-bit, because Windows 11 doesn’t come in a 32-bit version. The line also tells you whether the processor is x64-based or ARM-based.
Check System Type in Settings
- Press Windows key + I to open Settings.
- Select System, then scroll down and select About.
- Find System type near the top, under Device info. Older builds call this section Device specifications.
It reads something like 64-bit operating system, x64-based processor.
What the Processor Type Means
- x64-based processor: an Intel or AMD chip. Most Windows apps are made for this.
- ARM-based processor: a Snapdragon or other ARM chip. When downloading software, pick the ARM64 version if one is offered. Many x64 apps also run through emulation.
Check With a Command
Open Terminal and type systeminfo | findstr /C:"System Type". The result shows x64-based PC or ARM64-based PC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I run 32-bit apps on Windows 11?
Yes. 64-bit Windows 11 runs most 32-bit Windows apps. It can’t run 16-bit apps or 32-bit drivers. Microsoft answers more questions like this in its 32-bit and 64-bit Windows FAQ.
Which download should I pick, 32-bit or 64-bit?
Pick 64-bit (sometimes labeled x64) on an Intel or AMD PC, and ARM64 on an ARM PC, when those versions are available.
How do I check if I have Windows 10 or 11?
See how to check if you have Windows 10 or 11.
Matthew Burleigh has been writing tech tutorials since 2008. His writing has appeared on dozens of different websites and been read hundreds of millions of times.
After receiving his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Computer Science he spent several years working in IT management for small businesses. However, he now works full time writing content online and creating websites.
His main writing topics include iPhones, Microsoft Office, Google Apps, Android, and Photoshop, but he has also written about many other tech topics as well.