QUALCOMM

Snapdragon X vs Snapdragon X Plus: What’s the difference?

Qualcomm has recently expanded its Snapdragon X lineup, introducing the Snapdragon X as an entry-level SoC alongside its already popular Snapdragon X Plus. With these two processors, Qualcomm is aiming to capture a wide spectrum of the laptop market from budget-friendly models to mid-range options, while also challenging traditional x86 players like Intel and AMD. But how do these two Snapdragon chips stack up against each other? Let’s dive into the details and explore their differences, strengths, and use cases.

1. Core Architecture and Performance...Both the Snapdragon X and Snapdragon X Plus are based on Qualcomm’s custom Oryon CPU cores, which are designed to deliver high efficiency and competitive performance using the ARM architecture. The Snapdragon X features eight CPU cores clocked at up to 3.0 GHz, whereas the Snapdragon X Plus comes in two configurations: a 10-core variant clocked at up to 3.4 GHz and an 8-core version clocked at up to 3.2 GHz.

The additional cores and higher clock speeds in the Snapdragon X Plus allow it to handle more demanding workloads, making it better suited for professional users and multitasking-heavy scenarios.

In terms of cache, the Snapdragon X offers 30 MB of total cache, while the Snapdragon X Plus configurations boast 42 MB. This difference contributes to the X Plus’s superior performance in applications that rely on high memory bandwidth, such as content creation and software development.

2. Graphics and GPU Capabilities...Both processors are equipped with an Adreno GPU, but their performance levels vary significantly. The Snapdragon X features a GPU capable of delivering up to 1.7 TFLOPS, which is sufficient for light gaming, older titles, and casual media editing.

On the other hand, the Snapdragon X Plus has a more powerful GPU with a performance capability of up to 3.8 TFLOPS in its 10-core version, making it ideal for more graphics-intensive tasks like 3D rendering and gaming at higher resolutions.

Both chips support DirectX 12 and hardware acceleration for modern video codecs such as AV1, HEVC, and H.264, ensuring smooth video streaming and multimedia playback.

3. AI and NPU Performance...The Snapdragon X series integrates Qualcomm’s Hexagon NPU, delivering 45 TOPS (trillion operations per second) of AI performance. This advanced NPU powers both the Snapdragon X and Snapdragon X Plus, enabling features such as real-time voice transcription, image enhancement, and AI-based productivity tools like Microsoft‘s Copilot+ features. With identical NPU performance, both processors offer exceptional AI-driven capabilities while maintaining affordability.

4. Memory, Connectivity, and Battery Life...Memory configurations are identical across both chips, with support for LPDDR5x RAM running at up to 8448 MT/s, delivering bandwidths of 135 GB/s. This ensures efficient multitasking and seamless AI processing, regardless of the chosen processor.

Connectivity features are also consistent, with both processors supporting Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4, and Snapdragon X65 5G modems for ultra-fast wireless communication.

However, due to its higher performance ceiling, the Snapdragon X Plus is slightly more power-hungry, operating between 15W and 35W, compared to the Snapdragon X’s range of 15W to 30W. This translates to a minor trade-off in battery life for the X Plus in exchange for its superior performance.

5. Use Cases and Target Markets...The Snapdragon X is tailored for entry-level laptops priced around $600. It is ideal for students, freelance workers, and budget-conscious consumers who prioritize battery life and basic computing tasks over raw power. Its 8-core design and efficient power consumption make it a compelling option for thin-and-light laptops with long battery life.

Conversely, the Snapdragon X Plus is aimed at mid-range laptops and ultraportable professional devices priced between $800 and $1,000. It’s better suited for users who need more performance for productivity applications, creative workflows, and occasional gaming. The 10-core variant, in particular, caters to professionals looking for a balance of performance and efficiency without stepping into the premium Snapdragon X Elite territory.

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