Win7 64-bit 3D Game performance compared to WinXP Pro 32-bit

[eecon]

Has anyone run any benchmark testing (specifically 3DMark06) on the same system between Win7 64-bit w/4GB Memory versus WinXP Pro 32-Bit w/3GB (max usuable memory for 32-bit systems)?

I have a 15.4" T61p T9300 (FX570M) with 4GB memory and a 7200 RPM Seagate HDD installed and have tested both the 32-bit version of Win7 and WinXP Pro with less than 1% difference in scoring (4483 vs 4460 on 3DMark06).

I'm also considering upgrading to a SSD drive eventually, but for now was curious if a 64-bit OS utilizing my extra 1GB of RAM would make a difference (mostly on my favortive 3D games from 5 years ago or so).

Thanks

[jdrou]

My Precision M4400 dual-boots XP64 and Win 7 64-bit. Last tests I did they both scored around 5300 on 3DMark06 with XP having a 25 point lead.

My Thinkpad X201 dual-boots XP32 and Win7 64-bit (with 8GB RAM). I got 1850 and 1750 for my last 3DMark06 tests there. 3DMark05 scores were virtually identical around 3400.

I don't think memory amount should have a very significant effect on 3DMark scores. Speed might if you are using shared memory (like the X201). I did notice the X201 scores improve when I used identical modules so that it could be dual-channel. Memory amount would affect actual game performance if the game is compiled to use it or if Windows can do more disk caching and less (or no) virtual memory swapping.

[eecon]

Thanks jdrou very much for your great and helpful info .... I find it very interesting (and a relief frankly) that a 64-bit OS has very little impact on the older 3DMark06 and 3DMark05 benchmark tests.

It makes me wonder where a 64-bit OS would really shine (in the real world) over a 32-bit OS (even an oldie but goodie like WinXP Pro 32-Bit), other than the ability to utilize much more memory?

[jdrou]

Higher memory limit is the primary benefit of 64-bit for most people. Some real number-crunching programs would probably see speed benefits from a 64-bit OS but most of the number-crunching in games is done by the GPU.