How to Tell If Your Windows Is 32-bit or 64-bit
Find out whether Windows is 32-bit or 64-bit and pick the correct installer.
Open Settings > System > About and check System type. 64-bit operating system means you should download 64-bit or x64 software. 32-bit operating system means you need 32-bit or x86 software.
Last updated: 2026-06-18
Quick answer
Open Settings > System > About and read System type. If it says 64-bit operating system, choose the 64-bit, x64, or amd64 installer. If it says 32-bit operating system, choose the 32-bit or x86 installer.
Step-by-step: check Windows bitness
- Right-click the Start button.
- Select Settings.
- Open System, then choose About.
- Under Device specifications, find System type.
- Use the operating system value to choose your installer.
Alternative method: System Information
- Press the Windows key.
- Type System Information and press Enter.
- Look for System Type.
x64-based PC usually means your hardware supports 64-bit Windows. x86-based PC usually means 32-bit. For download choices, prioritize the Settings value that says whether the installed operating system is 64-bit or 32-bit.
Which installer should you choose?
- 64-bit Windows: choose 64-bit, x64, or amd64 installers for normal apps.
- 32-bit Windows: choose 32-bit or x86 installers when available.
- ARM Windows: choose ARM64 only when your PC specifically says it uses an ARM-based processor.
Use What-Version to confirm
The What-Version homepage can detect Windows and estimate whether your browser reports a 64-bit environment. Manual Settings checks are best when installing drivers, security tools, or software that changes system files.