When CorelDRAW X6 was released, the list of new features was topped by the availability of a 64-bit version. Just because there is a 64-bit version does not mean it is the best choice for users. In fact, the vast majority of users will find they get better results from the 32-bit version!
I was reminded it was time to discuss this yet again when a user was interested in a macro that is only available for 32-bit versions of CorelDRAW. The user didn’t have “old computers” and felt the 64-bit version was the only choice even though their usage of CorelDRAW won’t take any advantage of the few features where 64-bit is an improvement.
Let’s go back to a post from nearly two years ago titled Is The 64-Bit Version of CorelDRAW X6 Right For You? In that post I give you three very big reasons why the 32-bit version is a better choice and sometimes the only choice.
- First, the 64-bit version can only use 64-bit Photoshop plug-ins. That limits the number of plug-ins greatly.
- Second, I’ve yet to see a 64-bit TWAIN driver which can severely limit the ability to scan.
- Lastly, not all macros are available in a 64-bit version and it is possible some will never be updated.
These problems aren’t unique to CorelDRAW. Adobe Photoshop comes in both flavors and it has the exact same limitation with Photoshop plug-ins. Microsoft Office comes in both flavors and I always install the 32-bit versions since they have maximum compatibility. Not to mention I don’t create such massive Word or Excel files that I would need the 64-bit versions.
Corel didn’t help the situation by not offering users a clear choice of which version to install along with a list of uses that would benefit from 64-bit. Unless you are creating files bigger than 500 MB on a regular basis or any file bigger than 2 GB, it will not really help you much. Sure, it may be a fraction faster if you have a bunch of big files open. But that speed does you no good if some things won’t work.
For users who feel they must have the 64-bit version, install both! Yes, you can install both 32-bit and 64-bit on the same system. You don’t pay extra for having both versions installed. I have written instructions at Finding and Installing 32-Bit CorelDRAW X6 that explains how to do it.
AMEN! I have both versions (32 bit and 64 bit) CorelDraw installed, thanks to your earlier post. (Thank you again) I need all of the features in my 32 bit TWAIN scanner interface and can’t get by with the limited feature set of the 64 bit WIA interface. I do find myself using the 32bit version most of the time. You are absolutely correct about this (of course, you almost always are.)
Glad to hear my earlier post helped you get them both installed. Even better that you are finding the 32-bit version to be the better solution.