This is where it gets slightly confusing. Microsoft releases a separate redistributable for each major version of Visual Studio:
The 2019 version specifically targets applications built with Visual Studio 2019.
Generally, no. You should never uninstall a redistributable unless you are absolutely sure no application relies on it. visual c 2019 redistributable
Uninstalling it will not free up significant space (it is usually less than 30 MB). However, it will cause multiple applications to stop working immediately.
Installing the Visual C++ 2019 Redistributable is straightforward, but there are nuances. This is where it gets slightly confusing
Microsoft continues to update the Visual C++ Redistributable ecosystem. The Visual Studio 2022 Redistributable (version 17.x) is the current long-term support version.
Recommendation: Keep both. They do not conflict. Having Visual C++ 2019 and 2022 side-by-side is the safest configuration for a Windows gaming or productivity PC. Recommendation: Keep both
| For | Recommendation |
| :--- | :--- |
| End Users | Install the latest Microsoft Visual C++ 2015-2022 Redistributable (x86 and x64). Do not download from third-party sites. |
| Developers | Include the redistributable as a prerequisite in your installer (e.g., using the /quiet flag). |
| System Administrators | Deploy via GPO or SCCM using the unified package. Keep it updated through WSUS. |
| Gamers | Install both x86 and x64 versions. Many games still require the 32-bit runtime even on 64-bit Windows. |
Before clicking download, you must know your system architecture.
| Architecture | When to choose | File name |
| :--- | :--- | :--- |
| x86 (32-bit) | If you have a 32-bit Windows OS (rare today) or are installing a 32-bit application that requires the runtime. | vc_redist.x86.exe |
| x64 (64-bit) | If you have a 64-bit Windows OS (most modern PCs). You need this one. | vc_redist.x64.exe |
| ARM64 | If you are on a Windows Surface Pro X or other ARM-based Windows device. | vc_redist.arm64.exe |
Pro Tip: Most users should download and install BOTH the x86 and x64 versions. Even on a 64-bit PC, many legacy applications (and some modern installers) are still 32-bit and will look for the x86 runtime.