PSP X8 32-bit vs 64-bit performance when using Nik filters

[Jan Shim]

Like PSP X6 I decided to install the 32-bit version of PSP X8 for one reason — plug-in compatibility especially Nik Collection 32-bit filters. And, because historically PSP had never played well with Nik's 64-bit filters (when it did work it was a big hit and miss). Then today, I came across this announcement http://blog.paintshoppro.com/ready-for- ... -pro-x8-2/ (read in another thread that X8 users have issues with one experiencing occasional crashes with HDR Efex Pro 2). That's OK as I don't use HDR Efex Pro 2 at all. But, now that X8 and Nik filters are compatible in 64-bit environment, I wonder if someone has insights as to whether they have found processing with the 64-bit filters tangibly quicker than their 32-bit equivalent?

[Ken Berry]

I find that the processing speeds using Nik to be much the same whether using the 32 or 64 bit versions. I first installed the 64 bit ones about four months ago. The only differences I have noted have been between the filters themselves i.e. with some filters being speedier than others. But overall speed does not worry me much. Perhaps I have been hardened by the sister program Video Studio where certain filters can slow down processing enormously.

Coincidentally, at the moment my favourite Nik filter is the HDR one. I use it almost exclusively in 64 bit PSP and have not had any problems with it at all, including in the speed department.

I'll be interested to hear, though, how others are finding them.

[Jan Shim]

Thanks Ken. I'm inclined to keep things as it is now. I have other 32-bit plug-ins that do not work in 64-bit. I know coz they don't work in Photoshop CC. I can't do with them and wished there were 64-bit upgrades but there aren't. If I have to work on very large images where 64-bit memory address and 16GB RAM would put to good use, I switch to PS CC. It has crossed my mind to give 64-bit another try to see if Nik filters + X8 combo is stable with large images.

If I have both 32/64-bit PSP X8 versions installed at the same time how would it know when to launch 32-bit or 64-bit Nik filter, or am I the one to decide which version to launch?

[Ken Berry]

If you open 32 bit PSP it will open the 32 bit Nik filters. And it will open the 64 bit filters for that version of PSP.

And really I don't think you will lose anything in terms of either time or quality by using the 32 bit version of either...