> Why are x86/64 processors used for most high performance applications then? Because (1) you can overcome those issues by throwing enormous manpower at them;

> Why are x86/64 processors used for most high performance applications then? Because (1) you can overcome those issues by throwing enormous manpower at them; (2) the business success of Windows, coupled with Intel's patent portfolio to keep out competitors, historically generated enough revenue to fund that manpower. (There are signs that this may not sustain itself forever, with Intel's failure in mobile and the performance disappointment of Kaby Lake, but regardless of how well the strategy will continue to perform in the future, it worked for decades.)