32 xp pro vs 64 bit vista business

[fareedyomind]

Just got my system built and I was looking for input on O/S installation.

I have either a 32 bit XP PROFESSIONAL key or a 64 bit VISTA BUSINESS key to install.

my system:
case: Thermaltake Armor
cpu: Intel Core2Duo e6850 3.0 (with stock intel cpu cooler/fan mount
RAM: 4 x 1 gb OCZ HPC edition @ 1066 bus
VIDEO: hd4870 1gb ddr5
MOBO: Gigabyte DQ6 x48 chipset
HDDs: 2 x 500gb 32mb cache Seagate (7200 rpm)
OPTI: 2 x Liteon DVD+-RW
PSU: Silverstone 800w 66a 90%+ efficiency

I would like to get the benefits of the 4gb RAM, but if VISTA takes the extra RAM anyway, I can stick with 3gb on the XP PRO....

 

[shortstuff_mt]

With 4GB of RAM, I'd install 64-bit Vista without a doubt. Vista manages resources better than XP. 32-bit is a dying breed. I personally run 64-bit Vista and would never consider going back to XP.

 

[frozenlead]

^+1

The days of XP trumping Vista are long gone.

 

[Onus]

Consider your applications. If they'll run on Vista, get Vista. If they won't, then you can either upgrade the application if possible, or use XP.

 

[fareedyomind]

I will be mostly Gaming on this rig, along with the usual Office Apps.
Trend Micro is my security, and it may not work, but other than that I should be alright.