How can I tell if a CPU is 64-bit capable before I buy it?

[Sparktown]

I'm still researching for my new first system and I want to run 64-bit Windows. I am trying to decide between the i5 4460, i5 4590 or i5 4690 (feel free to give your opinion). Then I realized I didn't actually know how to tell if a CPU can run a 64-bit OS by looking at the CPU product information. I just had assumed they all could. What actually makes a 64-bit CPU?

To clarify, I already know what a 64-bit OS does. I'm also not looking for "most modern CPUs can run 64-bit OS." I also don't want a program that can determine if a CPU I have already installed is 64-bit capable. I want to know the the real specific difference between a 64-bit capable CPU and one that can only run a 32-bit OS. Something I can point to on a product spec sheet before I buy the CPU.

Also, please let me know if I am wrong about the CPU being the only factor that decides whether or not a PC can run a 64-bit OS. Is the motherboard also a factor? If so, how do you specifically know if a motherboard is 64-bit capable?

Thanks.

 

[celtic_warrior99]

You can find out if a CPU is 64 bit by looking for what the architecture is on the product webpage. It should look like this - Architecture- x86-64 .Oh and both of teh cpus are 64 bit and the i5 4590 is a better choice.

 

[celtic_warrior99]

X86 is 32bit whereas X64 is 64 bit

 

[Sparktown]

X86 is 32bit whereas X64 is 64 bit

Sorry for the late response. Thanks. That is very helpful and gives me the spec to look for on a product info sheet.

However, I still want to know what the actual physical difference is between a x86 and x64 CPU. What did they physically change to allow an x64 CPU to run a 64-bit OS? I'm assuming its a physical change, because it seems like it would be a non-issue if it was just some sort of firmware thing.

 

[celtic_warrior99]

Too be honest im not sure what the exact differences are. I do know that 64 bit pcs have better performance.

 

[FALC0N]

The big reason for the transition to 64 bit is memory addressing. A 32 bit OS can only address 4 GB of memory without convoluted memory extenders. 64 bit has a much higher ram addressing limit. There are a few other fairly small differences, but that's really the only one your likely to notice.

 

[Sparktown]

The big reason for the transition to 64 bit is memory addressing. A 32 bit OS can only address 4 GB of memory without convoluted memory extenders. 64 bit has a much higher ram addressing limit. There are a few other fairly small differences, but that's really the only one your likely to notice.

I already picked the solution awhile ago, but this was also very helpful. Thanks for taking the time to comment.