ARM64 vs x86 vs x64: What’s the Difference and Which Download Do You Need?
When a software download page offers ARM64, x86, and x64, the right choice depends on your computer.
For most Windows PCs with an Intel or AMD processor, choose x64. If you have an ARM-based Windows PC, choose ARM64 when available. Choose x86 if you’re running 32-bit Windows or specifically need the 32-bit version of an app.
Choose the download for your operating system, too. A Linux x64 package won’t install on Windows, even if both computers use an x64 processor.
ARM64, x86 and x64 at a glance
| Download label | Meaning | When to choose it |
|---|---|---|
| x86 | 32-bit software | For 32-bit Windows, or when you specifically need an app’s 32-bit version |
| x64 | 64-bit x86, also called x86-64 or AMD64 | For most Intel or AMD PCs running 64-bit Windows |
| ARM64 | 64-bit ARM, also called AArch64 | For ARM-based computers, with a download that matches the operating system |
On download pages, x86 usually means 32-bit software. AMD64 means x64, including on compatible Intel PCs—the name does not limit it to AMD processors. Linux downloads often use this label; Ubuntu lists the equivalent names in its architecture documentation.
Both x64 and ARM64 are 64-bit, but they use different instruction sets. Software built for one may need emulation to run on the other.
Find your system type on Windows
Open Settings → System → About and look for System type. Microsoft’s Windows guide shows where to find it.
If the entry says “64-bit operating system, x64-based processor,” choose the Windows x64 download. If it says “32-bit operating system,” choose x86, even if the processor supports 64-bit software. On an ARM-based Windows PC, choose Windows ARM64 when available.
Many x86 apps also run on x64 Windows. When an app offers both versions, x64 is usually the right choice unless the developer specifically recommends the 32-bit version. Windows 11 has no 32-bit edition, but it can still run many 32-bit apps.
Find your architecture on Linux
Open a terminal and run uname -m. A result of x86_64 means x64; aarch64 means ARM64.
Then choose a package for your Linux distribution and architecture. On a download page, amd64 corresponds to x64, and arm64 corresponds to ARM64.
Can an ARM64 PC run x86 or x64 software?
Windows 11 on Arm can run many x86 and x64 apps through emulation. If an ARM64 version is available, choose it first. It is built to run directly on an ARM processor.
Printers and other devices also need drivers that support ARM64. An app might open normally while a printer you use with it fails to work. Emulation won’t make an incompatible driver work.
Before buying an ARM-based PC, confirm that your essential apps run on Windows on Arm and that drivers are available for your devices. A “Windows 11 compatible” label alone may not be enough.
Is x64 faster than ARM64?
You cannot tell how fast a computer will be from its architecture alone. The processor model, cooling, memory and software all affect performance.
Look for reviews that test the models you’re comparing with the apps you use. For games, look at frame rates at your preferred resolution and graphics settings.
Choosing a Mini PC for your software
If you currently use an Intel- or AMD-based Windows computer, an x64 Mini PC can usually run the same apps, provided it meets their system requirements.
On Windows on Arm, a game’s launcher or anti-cheat software may be incompatible even when the game itself can run. Once you know the game is supported, the Mini PC’s graphics hardware will help determine which resolution and settings it can handle.
For a home server or development machine, make sure the software you plan to run is available for the processor you choose. Docker images, for example, may list linux/amd64 for x64 and linux/arm64 for ARM64. If the image supports both architectures, Docker can select the version for your machine automatically.
If you are also deciding between a Mini PC, laptop and single-board computer, our comparison guide compares the three options.
Common questions
Is x64 the same as AMD64?
Yes. On download pages, AMD64 means x64 or x86-64. An amd64 Linux package works on compatible Intel processors too.
Is ARM64 the same as x64?
No. Both are 64-bit architectures, but they use different instruction sets. Choose the download that matches your computer’s architecture and operating system.
Should I choose x86 or x64 on Windows 11?
On an Intel- or AMD-based Windows 11 PC, choose x64 when available. An x86 download is a 32-bit app. Windows 11 is 64-bit only, but it can still run many 32-bit apps.
Will an x64 app run on Windows 11 on Arm?
Many x64 apps run through emulation, though some may not work correctly. Choose an ARM64 version when available. Printers and other connected devices also need drivers that support ARM64.
For downloads, choose x64 on most Intel or AMD PCs, ARM64 on ARM-based PCs, and x86 when you need a 32-bit version. The download must also match your operating system. If you are buying a Mini PC, confirm that it supports the apps and devices you rely on and meets your software’s hardware requirements.