Qualcomm is expanding its Snapdragon X series for Windows laptops with new 8-core variants of the X Plus chip, aiming to bring its ARM-based processors to more affordable price points. This move could help accelerate the adoption of Windows on ARM devices by offering manufacturers more options to create competitively priced laptops.
New 8-Core Options
The chipmaker has introduced two new 8-core models:
- X1P-42-100: Up to 3.4 GHz single-core / 3.2 GHz multi-core, 1.7 TFLOPS GPU
- XP-46-100: Up to 4.0 GHz single-core / 3.4 GHz multi-core, 2.1 TFLOPS GPU
Both chips maintain the 45 TOPS NPU (Neural Processing Unit) performance of their 10-core and 12-core siblings, allowing Qualcomm to tout similar AI capabilities across the range.
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| Detailed specifications of Qualcomm's new 8-core Snapdragon X Plus models highlight their capabilities |
Trade-offs for Lower Cost
While the 8-core variants aim to reduce costs, they do come with some compromises compared to the higher-end models:
- Reduced CPU cache (30MB vs 42MB on 10-core)
- Lower GPU performance (max 2.1 TFLOPS vs 3.8 TFLOPS on 10-core)
- Decreased image processing capabilities (36MP single camera vs 64MP)
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| Comparison of Snapdragon chips illustrates the trade-offs in specifications for the new 8-core variants |
Pricing and Availability
Qualcomm suggests laptops featuring the 8-core Snapdragon X Plus will start at $799. Several major manufacturers are already announcing devices, including:
- Asus Zenbook S 15: $899
- Dell Inspiron 14: $899
- Asus Vivobook S 15: $900 (down from $1,300 for 12-core model)
- Asus ProArt PZ13: $1,099
These new laptops are expected to be available starting today, with more models likely to follow.
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| Promotional graphic of Snapdragon X Plus illustrates the processor's features and advantages in new laptops |
Performance Claims
Qualcomm is making bold performance claims for its 8-core chips, particularly against Intel and AMD offerings:
- Up to 79% faster single-threaded performance than Intel Core Ultra 5 125U
- Up to 40% faster single-threaded performance than AMD Ryzen 5 8640U
- Claimed battery life improvements, especially for specific tasks like video calls
It's worth noting that these are Qualcomm's internal benchmarks, and independent testing will be crucial to verify these claims, especially as Intel and AMD prepare to launch their next-generation processors.
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| Benchmark comparisons offer insights into the performance claims of Qualcomm's new chips compared to major competitors |
The Road Ahead
While these 8-core variants expand Qualcomm's reach in the Windows on ARM market, the company has hinted at even more affordable options in the future. Qualcomm previously mentioned targeting the $700 price point by 2025, which could further increase competition in the laptop space.
As Windows on ARM continues to mature, these new chip options give manufacturers more flexibility to create devices at various price points. This could lead to increased adoption of ARM-based Windows laptops, provided that software compatibility and performance continue to improve.