Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus Octa-Core CPU Benchmarks: Decent CPU, Disastrous GPU

Qualcomm is set to release a budget-friendly Snapdragon X Plus chip, the X1P-42-100, targeting the sub-$700 Windows on ARM PC market. Promising AI capabilities and exceptional battery life, this 8-core processor aims to attract budget-conscious consumers seeking an alternative to traditional x86 laptops. However, leaked benchmark results reveal a mixed bag, with decent CPU performance overshadowed by abysmal GPU capabilities.

CPU Performance: Holding its Own Against x86 Rivals

In CPU benchmarks, the X1P-42-100 shows promise, particularly in single-core performance. Here's a breakdown of the results:

Cinebench R23:

The 8-core X1P-42-100 trails its 10-core sibling by just 5% in single-core performance, a commendable result considering the core count difference. However, the multi-core score drops by 20%, likely due to the reduced core count.

Geekbench 6:

Impressively, the X1P-42-100 outperforms both the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS and Intel Core Ultra 9 185H in single-core tests. However, it again falls behind in multi-core performance, showcasing the limitations of its reduced core count.

GPU Performance: A Major Bottleneck

The GPU benchmarks paint a grim picture, exposing the X1P-42-100's Achilles' heel:

3DMark Time Spy:

The X1P-42-100's graphics score is a paltry 916 points, a staggering 40% lower than its 10-core counterpart and even further behind the X Elite.

3DMark Steel Nomad:

Similar results emerge in Steel Nomad, with the X1P-42-100 achieving a low score and a meager 8.6 FPS.

Gaming Performance: Unplayable at High Settings

Real-world gaming tests confirm the dismal GPU performance. In "Shadow of the Tomb Raider," the X1P-42-100 only manages 18 FPS at 1080p with the lowest graphics settings. Bumping up the settings to high results in a dismal 12 FPS, rendering the game unplayable.

The Trade-Off: AI and Battery Life vs. Gaming Prowess

While the X1P-42-100's GPU performance is undeniably disappointing, it's crucial to consider Qualcomm's target audience. This chip aims to capture the budget-conscious market seeking AI-powered experiences and exceptional battery life, not high-end gaming.

Qualcomm is betting on the allure of "AI PCs" and the promise of all-day battery life, with some reviewers reporting week-long charges on Snapdragon X-powered laptops. For users prioritizing productivity and web-based applications, the X1P-42-100's CPU performance and extended battery life may outweigh its gaming limitations.

Conclusion: A Niche Offering in a Competitive Market

The Snapdragon X Plus X1P-42-100 presents a unique proposition in the laptop market, prioritizing AI capabilities and exceptional battery life over raw processing power. Its CPU performance holds its own against x86 rivals, but its woeful GPU capabilities are a major drawback for gamers. Ultimately, the success of this chip will depend on Qualcomm's ability to effectively communicate its value proposition to its target audience – budget-conscious consumers seeking a portable, long-lasting, and AI-enabled computing experience. However, the looming threat of Intel's upcoming Lunar Lake chips, promising both performance and efficiency, remains a significant challenge for Qualcomm to overcome.