If you’ve been following Computex this week, you’ve likely seen the buzz surrounding the launch of multiple Windows on Arm laptops powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus platforms. This collaboration between Microsoft and Qualcomm to bring Arm energy efficiency to Windows has been in the works for seven years now. The benefits of moving away from x86 architecture seem to have finally materialized.
I have had some experience with Arm devices in the past. The early Arm project, like the Lenovo Mixx 630 with the Snapdragon 835 processor, was not great for laptop use. However, more recent devices like the Surface Pro X with the Snapdragon 8cx chipset have shown improvements. While performance may not be top-tier, the platform offers better battery life, connectivity, and a fanless design.
Though Arm-based PCs have historically lacked a standout feature, the introduction of Snapdragon X has potential to change that. The new platform promises competitive performance and ultra-long battery life. CoPilot Plus, an AI feature debuting on Snapdragon X devices, may also be a game-changer. This, along with the support of major manufacturers like Microsoft, Acer, ASUS, and Dell, gives consumers a wide range of choices.
Despite the high price tag, the Snapdragon X laptops are now available for purchase, providing clarity and ease of comparison for consumers. After seven years of development, it’s exciting to see the advancements in Arm technology and the promise of a premium Windows on Arm experience.