Qualcomm has recently unveiled its latest innovation in the laptop market, introducing the first eight-core Snapdragon X Plus chips, which promise to reshape the landscape of affordable Windows laptops. These new processors will power the Asus Vivobook S 15 and the Dell Inspiron 14, both of which are now available at a competitive starting price of $799.
Performance Insights
The new Snapdragon X Plus chips, while slightly less powerful than their 10-core and 12-core counterparts, still offer a compelling option for budget-conscious consumers. Although they deliver approximately 80% of the CPU performance of the 12-core models, their graphics capabilities are notably diminished, with GPU power reduced to less than half. This means that while productivity tasks can be handled efficiently, graphics-intensive applications may not perform as well.
Despite these limitations, the eight-core chips maintain the same AI performance metrics, boasting 45 TOPS from their neural processing unit (NPU). However, they do come with a reduction in CPU cache, offering 12MB less than the higher-end models.
Market Implications
The introduction of these more affordable laptops could significantly impact entry-level buyers. For instance, the Asus Vivobook S 15, which originally retailed for $1,300 with a 12-core chip, is now available for just $799 with the eight-core variant. This model retains key features such as a robust 70 watt-hour battery and a stunning 3K 120Hz OLED display, making it an attractive option for those looking to save without sacrificing too much performance.
In addition to the Asus and Dell offerings, other manufacturers like Acer, HP, Lenovo, and Samsung are expected to release their own Snapdragon X Plus laptops soon. Notably, the Acer Swift Go 14 AI is set to launch at $799, while a new 15-inch version of the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge will be available in October.
Future Developments
As the market evolves, Qualcomm has indicated that prices for laptops featuring these chips could dip as low as $500 by 2025. This trend suggests a growing accessibility to advanced technology for a wider audience, particularly for those who may not require the highest specifications but still desire a reliable and stylish device.
For consumers weighing their options, the pricing dynamics may shift further as sales and promotions become more prevalent. The 12-core Asus Vivobook S 15 is already seeing discounts, with prices dropping to $1,100 or lower, while Dell’s 12-core Inspiron 14 Plus is currently available for $999. Additionally, Asus has announced a new Qualcomm-based creator laptop, the ProArt PZ13, priced at $1,099, which features similar specs and is also available at Best Buy.
