Many people don't realize that almost all new computers have a 64 bit processor. However, it is possible to run a 32 bit OS on these new processors without any problems. Actually, most computers ship with a 32 bit operating system still.

If you consider yourself technically savvy it is perfectly fine to go with a 64 bit operating system. However, if you are a Tablet PC user it is highly likely that you will run into some problems. Specifically, it is not possible to Print to OneNote 2007 on a 64bit version of Windows.

As for how much RAM, get as much as you can afford. Vista runs quite well on computers with 2GB of RAM. If you want to go for 4GB and 64 bit, you will have a very powerful system. If you are running a 32bit operating system with 4GB of RAM, you will not be able to utilize all of your RAM, but your computer will still run fine.

Another consideration is that hardware devices such as printers, scanners, cameras, and web cams may not have 64 bit drivers available from the manufactures. Be sure to check for drivers before you make any purchases so you don't have devices that you can't use. Microsoft requires that all drivers on a 64 bit OS be signed. This means more work for manufactures and they do not want to pay to make drivers for older hardware. This will become less of a problem as older hardware becomes obsolete and is no longer used.

It really comes down to if you are willing to put up with some problems. The difficulty in making a decision like this is that you won't know if you will run into problems. The good news is that if you run into problems you can simply install Vista 32 bit if you don't want to stick with 64 bit. Windows product keys allow you to install the 32bit version or 64bit version without having to purchase another copy of Windows, as long as it is on the same computer.

Problem with OneNote 2007 It is not possible to use the Sent to OneNote 2007 printer functionality under a 64 bit version of Windows Vista. The problem is outline by Microsoft in their post: OneNote 64 bit print driver.