Why You Need to Switch to Delphi 13 and its 64-bit IDE Yesterday¶

For most Delphi developers, the switch to 64-bit isn’t obvious at first glance. After all, for decades since Delphi 2, we’ve been working quite happily in a 32‑bit IDE, building applications, connecting to databases, and delivering production software.

With the introduction of 64‑bit compilers for Windows and other platforms, the natural assumption was:

“As long as I can compile 64‑bit executables from the 32‑bit IDE, I’m fine— right?”

Not quite. Let’s talk about why sticking to the 32‑bit IDE is holding you back, and why the time to switch is right now.

The Old World: 32‑bit IDE, 64‑bit Output¶

Today, Delphi allows you to build executables for multiple platforms, including 64‑bit Windows. Technically, you could stay in the 32‑bit IDE and compile flawless 64‑bit executables. That’s already been the case for years.

So why bother changing the IDE itself?

Because of one thing in particular: database drivers.

The Database Problem: Why the IDE Matters¶

Most Delphi developers working with databases rely on FireDAC. FireDAC integrates beautifully with the IDE, letting you connect to live data sources right at design time. This is crucial for productivity—you can design forms, test queries, and preview results without having to run your app every few minutes.

Here’s the catch:
- A 32‑bit IDE can only talk to 32‑bit database drivers.
- Many database vendors have already stopped shipping 32‑bit drivers.

That means if you’re still working in the old 32‑bit IDE:
- You can’t connect to 64‑bit-only databases inside the IDE.
- You’re stuck waiting until runtime to test queries and data access.
- Your workflow becomes clunky, slow, and far less efficient.

In other words, Delphi might still compile your app, but you as the developer lose one of Delphi’s greatest strengths: live data at design time.

Real-World Impact¶

Popular databases like MySQL and PostgreSQL have already moved to offering only 64‑bit drivers. This trend is only accelerating.

If your daily work relies on design‑time database connectivity—and if you use FireDAC, it almost certainly does—then staying on the 32‑bit IDE locks you out of modern database development.

Why You Should Switch Yesterday¶

Switching to Delphi 13 and its Delphi 64‑bit IDE ensures:
- ✅ Full FireDAC functionality at design time
- ✅ Compatibility with modern 64‑bit database drivers
- ✅ Faster, more streamlined development workflows
- ✅ Future-proofing your projects as 32‑bit support fades away

Yes, you can still technically build 64‑bit apps with the 32‑bit IDE. But unless you’re okay with doing all your database work blind until runtime, it’s no longer a practical choice.

Summary¶

The bottom line is simple:
- If you use FireDAC and connect to databases, the 64‑bit IDE is no longer optional—it’s essential.
- Many of the most popular databases (MySQL, PostgreSQL, and others) only offer 64‑bit drivers now.
- The longer you postpone the switch, the more painful your development experience will become.

So don’t wait. Switch to Delphi 13 with its 64‑bit IDE and compiler today.

Need Help?¶

If you’re facing challenges with the transition, database integration, or optimizing workflows in Delphi, I offer consulting and training services to help teams modernize quickly and confidently.

📩 Get in touch, and let’s make your Delphi development future‑ready.