32-Bit vs 64-Bit Printer Drivers: Which Version Do You Need?

What is the difference between 32-bit and 64-bit drivers?

A printer driver is a small software layer that translates print jobs from your operating system into commands a specific printer understands. The bit version (32-bit or 64-bit) refers to the architecture of the driver, which must match the architecture of the operating system it runs on. A 32-bit driver runs on a 32-bit OS, and a 64-bit driver runs on a 64-bit OS.

The technical distinction matters because 32-bit and 64-bit systems handle memory and file formats differently. A 64-bit OS can address more RAM and processes data in larger chunks, so drivers written for 64-bit systems can take advantage of those capabilities. However, for printing, the practical difference is small for most home and office tasks; the main concern is compatibility.

If you install a 32-bit driver on a 64-bit OS, it may fail to install or the printer may not respond correctly, and vice versa. Modern operating systems often include generic drivers that work across architectures, but for full feature access, the correct version is recommended.

How to check if your OS is 32-bit or 64-bit

Before downloading a driver, confirm your operating system's architecture. On Windows, open the Settings app, go to System, then About. Under 'Device specifications', you'll see 'System type' listing either '64-bit operating system, x64-based processor' or '32-bit operating system, x86-based processor'. On older Windows versions, right-click 'This PC' and select Properties.

On macOS, click the Apple menu and select 'About This Mac'. The chip information, such as Intel or Apple Silicon, indicates 64-bit support; every modern Mac runs a 64-bit operating system. Chrome OS and most Linux distributions are also 64-bit, though some lightweight versions still ship as 32-bit.

If you're unsure, this guide on printer OS compatibility offers more detail on matching drivers to your system.

• Windows: Settings > System > About > System type
• macOS: Apple menu > About This Mac (chip info)
• Chrome OS: Settings > About Chrome OS (usually 64-bit)

Why the bit version matters for printer compatibility

The bit version of a printer driver must match the operating system's architecture to ensure proper communication. This is particularly important for older printers and legacy software. Some printer manufacturers provide both 32-bit and 64-bit driver packages, but if you choose the wrong one, installation may fail or the printer may print garbled output.

For network printers, the driver architecture on the computer is what matters, not the printer's internal processor. A printer with a 32-bit internal chip can still be driven by a 64-bit driver on your computer, as long as the manufacturer supplies one.

If your printer is very old and the manufacturer only released a 32-bit driver, you might need to use a generic driver or a compatibility mode on Windows. See our guide on manufacturer driver vs generic driver to understand alternatives.

The printer driver languages guide and printer emulation guide explain how drivers and printer languages interact, which can help you troubleshoot compatibility issues.

How modern standards reduce the need for specific drivers

Today, many printers support open standards like IPP Everywhere, defined by the Printer Working Group (PWG). As stated on the PWG website, IPP Everywhere allows personal computers and mobile devices to find and print to networked and USB printers without using vendor-specific software. This means on Windows, macOS, Chrome OS, and Linux, the operating system can automatically set up the printer using a generic driver.

Mopria Alliance provides a similar certification for mobile printing. The Mopria website states that Windows supports Mopria certified printers, and Android and Chrome OS can print to them without extra apps. This further reduces the need to manually match driver bit versions.

For a deeper look at how these standards work, see our AirPrint and Mopria guide and the printer network protocols guide.

How to choose the right driver if you still need one

If your printer isn't supported by a built-in standard or if you need advanced features like dual scanning or custom paper sizes, you'll likely download the driver from the printer manufacturer's website. Before downloading, verify your OS architecture using the steps above. Most manufacturer sites auto-detect your OS, but double-check the '32-bit' or '64-bit' label on the download page.

For Windows 11 and 10, 64-bit is the only supported architecture; 32-bit versions of Windows are rare now. If you're using an older 32-bit Windows, the driver must be the 32-bit version. For macOS, all current versions are 64-bit, so choose the appropriate driver that matches your macOS version.

When in doubt, use the 'generic' driver that comes with the OS. Windows and macOS often include built-in drivers for major printer families. The trade-offs are covered in our guide on generic vs manufacturer drivers.

Printer buying advice for hassle-free setup

When buying a new printer, look for models that support IPP Everywhere or Mopria certification. This ensures you can print from any modern device without dealing with 32-bit or 64-bit driver downloads. The PWG states that 98% of printers sold today support IPP/2.0 and DNS-SD, so virtually any new printer works this way.

For home offices and small businesses, a best all-in-one printer often combines printing, scanning, and faxing. If you prefer laser output, check our best laser printers or best color laser printers. Inkjet users might explore best inkjet printers.

ENERGY STAR certified imaging equipment is also worth considering, as these models meet energy efficiency criteria and often include automatic duplexing and power management features, according to the ENERGY STAR program. This saves energy and simplifies paper handling.

Remember that even the newest printers still require a working driver. But with modern standards, the headache of matching bit versions is largely gone. For detailed specs, browse our printer specs guide.

What to pick for your use

Questions

Can I use a 32-bit printer driver on a 64-bit operating system?

Usually no. The driver must match your OS architecture. Some printers offer a 'universal' driver that works on both, but for full features, use the correct bit version.

Does the printer itself need to be 32-bit or 64-bit?

No. The bit version refers to the driver and OS, not the printer's internal processor. A 64-bit driver can control a printer with a 32-bit chip.

How do I know if my printer supports IPP Everywhere?

Check the printer's spec sheet or the IPP Everywhere printable printer list on the PWG website. Most printers released since 2015 support it.

What if my printer only has a 32-bit driver and my OS is 64-bit?

Try using the built-in generic driver in your OS, or check if the manufacturer offers a newer universal driver. Some older printers may not work at all; consider a replacement.

Does the bit version affect print quality or speed?

No. Print quality and speed depend on the printer hardware and driver features, not the bit version. The bit version only affects compatibility.

Why does my Windows update sometimes install a printer driver automatically?

Windows includes drivers for many common printers, often using standards like IPP Everywhere. It can detect and install a compatible driver without manual input.