Legit Reviews

Okay I have just built my first AMD 64 bit machine. I have downloaded the Microsoft XP Pro x64 trial version of windows but am not sure whether or not to use this.

I use my PC primarily for standard word processing, web design and 3D gaming, BF1942, Half-Life 2 and BF 2 when it comes out.

Has anyone tried this new version of Win XP and would you recommend using this over the standard Win XP Pro?

i've used both the 32 and 64 bit versions of windows xp pro and if you are happy with the driver support on the 64 bit side then by all means I'd stick with it if you can.

I've heard nothing but good things about the 64 bit version. Its in its final stage so most of the bugs sgould be worked out at this point, and both ATI and nVidia have drivers out for it...so go for it

Until MS releases XP pro x64 later this spring use the RC1, what you downloaded. Most progs that are 32bit will see no performance hit. The one thing to remember is that its only a 1 year trial version, so at some point you will need to buy the program or switch to linux.

Another thing I have been told is that once 64 bit Windowws is released. Those of us with the 32 bit version will be able to trade in our versions at no cost...simply a straight across trade.

capper5016 wrote:Another thing I have been told is that once 64 bit Windowws is released. Those of us with the 32 bit version will be able to trade in our versions at no cost...simply a straight across trade.

That would shock the h311 outta me! Gates giving free trades?? I'll have to see that one to believe it...

Those who own a 32-bit version of Windows XP Professional or Windows Server 2003 will be able to exchange it for a license for the 64-bit edition, Microsoft has said.

I have also read in a few other places that they have extended it to include the Home Edition, as there are alot of people out there using AMD processors with WinXP home, and by not offering the same deal to those people they risk losing them to Linux

Hmm.. well, I supposed I see the angle they are taking with that... I forget that the Linux crowd is starting to worry M$.

But it still surprises me! And where did you snag that quote from?

Both C-Net and Anandtech have pieces on it. But there was a post on the MS site itself awhile ago... heree is the bit from Anandtech

According to c|net, Microsoft is ready to release the first release candidate for the 64 bit versions of Windows XP and 2003 Server. So far Microsoft hasn't pushed back the release dates any further then the1st half of 2005. For users who own a copy of the 32 bit versions of Windows will be allowed to trade in for the 64 it versions of the operating systems at no cost.

MS has been back pedeling on stuff like that because of linux, its like teir new licenceing scheme where a dual core cpu counts as one cpu so you get to install windows on a 2cpu or 2 dual core cpu

Yeah, I'll believe that when I see it to. I have supported Microsoft all the way back to Windows 286. It's about time to get something at no charge from Mr. Gates. I won't hold my breath though. Seriously though, I just downloaded Windows XP 64 RC1 and am going to try it this weekend if I can get the time. My friend is running the prior version and loves it. It is definately faster. Everything seems snappier. I'm looking forward to it.