quickutilities – Qualcomm is taking a bold step into the mid-range PC market with the launch of its Snapdragon X chipset. Unveiled at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES) 2025. This strategic move positions Qualcomm to compete directly in the mainstream and budget laptop segment. Dominated by Windows devices and fiercely contested by tech giants like AMD and Intel. Qualcomm, which currently holds just 0.8% of the PC market share (as of Q3 2024). Aims to carve a larger slice of this rapidly growing $247.10 billion industry projected by 2028.
The Snapdragon X, built on a 4nm fabrication process. Delivers a blend of performance and efficiency tailored to mid-range Windows laptops. While it doesn’t match the high-end capabilities of its X Plus or X Elite counterparts. The Snapdragon X shares the same advanced design architecture. It is powered by Qualcomm’s Oryon CPU, boasting an 8-core setup with a maximum clock speed of 3.0GHz.
AI remains a core focus for Qualcomm. Aligning with its recent Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset launch for premium smartphones in October 2024. The Snapdragon X also integrates AI-driven enhancements, making it a competitive option in the mainstream laptop segment. These features are expected to attract budget-conscious users who want efficient computing without compromising on essential modern functionalities.
Qualcomm Snapdragon X Promises Superior Performance and AI Features
Qualcomm has unveiled the Snapdragon X chipset. Positioning it as a game-changer for mid-range Windows PCs with its impressive performance and cutting-edge AI capabilities. The San Diego-based company claims that the Snapdragon X delivers 163% faster performance at ISO power compared to its competitors. Setting a new standard for efficiency in the budget and mainstream laptop segment.
The Snapdragon X features a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) designed to accelerate artificial intelligence (AI) tasks. Enhancing functionality and enabling seamless operation of Microsoft’s AI-powered Copilot+PC lineup. This compatibility allows the Snapdragon X to run advanced built-in apps like Recall and Click to Do. Making it a vital component in AI-driven computing.
Built on a 4nm fabrication process, the Snapdragon X not only delivers efficiency but also supports modern connectivity standards. These include LPDDR5x RAM, Bluetooth 5.4, Wi-Fi 7, USB 4 (40Gbps), and, additionally, optional 5G connectivity for enhanced performance and versatility.. Its graphics capabilities allow users to connect up to three external UHD (4K) monitors at 60Hz, catering to multitasking and productivity needs.
One of the standout features of the Snapdragon X is its exceptional battery life. Qualcomm claims the chipset offers impressive multi-day battery performance, lasting up to 2x longer than competing devices. Specifically, in performance tests, a Snapdragon X-powered laptop significantly outlasted an Intel Core i5 notebook by 106% while streaming Netflix. This demonstrates not only its efficiency but also its suitability for extended use, making it ideal for modern consumer needs.
Aims to Dominate Mid-Range Laptop Market with Affordable AI-Driven Solutions
Qualcomm announced that its new Snapdragon X chipset will power devices priced around $600, targeting the mid-range PC market with an attractive combination of affordability and advanced features. In comparison, the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips power laptops priced at $1,000 and above and $800 and up, respectively. Major manufacturers such as Acer, Asus, Dell Technologies, HP, and Lenovo are set to release Snapdragon X-powered laptops in the first quarter of 2025.
Designed for students, freelance professionals, and budget-conscious consumers, the Snapdragon X promises reliable performance and AI-driven capabilities in a cost-effective package. “Snapdragon X is an ideal solution for users who need a dependable laptop that keeps up with their busy lives,” Qualcomm stated in a press release.
The company is making a calculated push into the mid-range segment to challenge competitors like AMD and Intel. Qualcomm’s market share in the PC sector stood at just 0.8% in the third quarter of 2024. However, with aggressive pricing and partnerships, Qualcomm aims to capture more of the lucrative mid-range segment.
To bolster its position, Qualcomm announced that 60 laptop designs powered by the Snapdragon X series are already in production or development. The company expects over 100 such devices to hit the market by 2026, signaling its long-term commitment to the PC market.
With its focus on budget-friendly yet feature-rich laptops, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X chipset positions itself as a strong contender in the mid-range laptop market, offering affordability without compromising on performance or innovation.
