64 bit operating systems

[BLACKHEART]

Im thinking of upgrading to a 64 bit os,
which is better windows xp 64 bit or vista 64 bit?
right now I have vista home premium 32 bit
what benefits does having a 64 bit os have?
what disadvantages does it have? If any?

[Araris]

Vista 64bit (Home Premium IMO) is the better one, the main advantage is that it allows you to use more than 3.2GB of RAM unlike 32bit systems. Also keep in mind the amount of RAM your GPU has as it affects how much ram 32bit systems can address.

There are 64bit drivers for 99% of all hardware/software available so you won't need to worry about incompatibilities. After 1 year of Vista 64bit I've never had an issue with it.

Keep in mind that if you plan on gaming in Vista only do it if your computer is fairly decent (ie: 2GB RAM, Athlon X2/Phenom or Core 2 Duo/Quad, 8600GT or higher)