Since Firefox x64 version 42 is now released (available through FTP only) - Should I switch to x64 or stay on x86? I only use Adblock Plus add-on. Further is it possible to have both x64 and x86 versions installed side by side having common profile? I am using Windows 10 Pro x64 and Windows 8.1 pro x64. Please advice - is it the right time to switch?
I did an upgrade from 32bit to 64bit and I was disappointed. 64bit works fine but it lacks some essential plugins like VLC plugin. I tried to install vlc media player 64bit to eenable the plugin and it didn't work. I guess 64bit is more stable and more secure. That's OK. It takes over all extensions from 32bit version, but not VLC plugin. That's too bad. So I downgraded back to 32bit.
If you have a 64 bit system use the 64 bit browser, using a 32 bit browser on a 64 bit system is like buying a stripped down Mercedes Benz, if your gonna buy one you might as well load up on the options. A 64 bit browser will take better advantage of the resources your 64 bit system has to offer where a 32 bit browser will not ...... take my word for it, it's a better experience. Don't believe me? download both the 32 and 64 bit versions of Firefox, after installing the 32 bit version open as many tabs as you can and see how far you get before the browser becomes slow, unstable and / or crashes, then do the same with the 64 bit. I guarantee you will be able to open a plethora more tabs with the 64 bit version than the 32.
This is why I am concerned - though it is stable now but still seems its worth waiting before final switch over. You are correct ! My reason for planning to switch over to x64 version. Was waiting for Mozilla Firefox x64 stable release since long. As mentioned by opolozised we can have both 32 and 64 side by side - I can at least try 64 bit if not totally switch to check myself.
Java plugin (regardless if its x86/x64) won't work in Firefox 64bit. Firefox is becoming less and less user customisable.
For some unknown reason AdBlock Plus and PrintFriendly & PDF don't work with Palemoon x86/x64, that's why I use Cyberfox x64. I don't use Java.