Easy Tech TutsHow to Check Whether Excel Is 32 or 64 bit Easily 2026
By Impran M N
Knowing whether your copy of Excel is 32-bit or 64-bit matters when you're troubleshooting crashes with large datasets, dealing with macros that won't compile, or picking the right installer for an add-in. Excel makes this information available in just a couple of clicks through its built-in account details panel.
01Open the File menu
Click File in the top-left corner of Excel to open the backstage view, which holds account and application information separate from your worksheet.
02Go to the Account section
From the backstage menu, select Account to see details about your Excel installation and Microsoft 365 subscription.
03Open About Excel
Click the About Excel button to open a details window that lists your exact version number along with whether the installation is 32-bit or 64-bit.
04Read the build information
The version details window displays the architecture directly next to the build number, giving you the exact information needed for compatibility checks with add-ins or macros.
Frequently asked questions
Why does it matter if Excel is 32-bit or 64-bit?
The 64-bit version can handle larger datasets and more memory, which matters for big workbooks, while some older add-ins only work with the 32-bit version.
Can I switch between 32-bit and 64-bit Excel?
Switching requires uninstalling your current version and reinstalling the other architecture, since Microsoft 365 lets you choose which one to install.
Which version should I choose for a new install?
Most users benefit from 64-bit unless they rely on a specific legacy add-in that only supports 32-bit.
Does checking the bit version require any special permissions?
No, any user can view this information through the standard Account and About Excel screens without administrator access.
Watch the full walkthrough
The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
