Windows on ARM is gaining traction, thanks to Qualcomm’s new Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus processors, as well as devices like the Surface Laptop 7, Surface Pro 11, and Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x, which are receiving positive reviews from tech experts.
This article will address some of the most frequently asked questions about Windows on ARM: What exactly is it? How does ARM differ from the traditional x86 architecture? What are the current options for Windows on ARM? And most importantly, are these devices worth considering?
What is Windows on ARM?
Windows on ARM is a Windows operating system version designed to work on devices with ARM-based processors. These processors are known for their energy efficiency, making them ideal for mobile devices and lightweight laptops.
Windows on ARM can run most traditional applications directly or through emulation to offer a more optimized, battery-efficient, and portable experience, particularly for tablets and ultra-portable laptops.
Difference between ARM and x86
ARM and x86 are two processor architectures fundamental to how devices like computers, smartphones, and tablets function. While they perform the same essential tasks, they do so in distinct ways, each with its strengths and weaknesses.
ARM processors are designed with a focus on simplicity and efficiency. ARM is an “Advanced RISC Machine” based on a Reduced Instruction Set Computing (RISC) architecture. This means ARM processors use a smaller, more streamlined set of instructions to execute tasks. The essential advantage of this design is that ARM processors tend to consume less power and generate less heat, making them ideal for mobile devices like smartphones, tablets, and lightweight laptops where battery life is essential.
x86 processors, on the other hand, are built to handle more complex and resource-intensive tasks. This architecture uses a Complex Instruction Set Computing (CISC) design, which allows x86 processors to execute more operations with a single instruction. This capability makes them powerful enough to manage demanding applications and tasks like video editing, high-end gaming, and running professional software. Due to their processing power, x86 processors have been the dominant choice for desktops, laptops, and servers for many years. However, the growing popularity of ARM suggests a shift in the landscape.
What is the reason for ARM’s recent success?
ARM processors have made significant strides in recent years, particularly with innovations from Apple and Qualcomm. Apple’s M series processors have been a game-changer, offering exceptional performance and impressive energy efficiency. This has allowed Mac laptops to run faster and have much longer battery life, setting a new standard in the industry.
Similarly, Qualcomm has made waves with its Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips, which have elevated ARM architecture in Windows 11 devices. These processors deliver superior speed and efficiency, outperforming many x86 chips in terms of performance per watt. This advancement has led to the development of thinner laptops with longer battery life.
For a long time, laptops struggled to live up to their “portable” label, often failing to last a full day of heavy use without recharging. They also faced challenges like reduced performance when unplugged (a tactic manufacturers use to conserve battery life) and excessive energy consumption even when idle. However, these issues are becoming a thing of the past thanks to ARM processors, though it’s worth noting that Intel and AMD have also made significant improvements in these areas with their latest x86 chips.
Limitations of ARM
The primary limitation of ARM laptops, especially those running Windows on ARM, is software compatibility. Since the transition to ARM architecture is still in its early stages, not all programs and games are fully supported. Many specialized professional applications and certain games might not work natively on these devices. Instead, they may require emulation through Microsoft’s Prism, which, while functional, doesn’t fully utilize the ARM processor’s capabilities, leading to reduced performance and shorter battery life.
Before purchasing an ARM laptop, you must check if the software you rely on is compatible. You can verify compatibility for video games through specific websites dedicated to this purpose.
Additionally, some peripherals might not function appropriately with ARM laptops unless manufacturers release compatible drivers. This issue is particularly relevant for printers older than three or four years, as Windows on ARM supports a new printing standard that these older printers do not.
What devices can I buy?
Although Windows on ARM has existed since 2012 with the introduction of Windows RT (a simplified version of Windows 8), it’s only recently that Windows 11 devices running on this architecture have become viable alternatives to traditional x86-based computers.
This shift is mainly due to the advancements in Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series chips, which can now compete with Apple’s powerful M2 and M3 processors. Below is a list of the first laptops to feature these cutting-edge processors:
- Surface Pro 11
- Surface Laptop 7
- Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge
- Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x
- Asus Vivobook 6 15
- Dell XPS 13
- HP Omnibook X 14
- Acer Swift 14 AI
These devices showcase the potential of Windows on ARM, offering a blend of performance and efficiency that’s pushing the boundaries of what portable computing can achieve.
Do you recommend I buy a laptop with Windows 11 on ARM?
Whether Windows on ARM is right for you depends on your specific needs. If you’re a severe gamer or rely on programs that aren’t fully compatible with Windows 11 on ARM, this platform might not be the best fit for you.
However, what’s certain is that Windows on ARM is here to stay, and we can expect to see more laptops with this architecture in the future. As more software is developed natively for ARM, the current limitations will gradually diminish. Once that happens, the advantages of ARM-based devices—especially for laptops where mobility and battery life are key—will likely outweigh those of traditional x86 devices.
