What's The Snapdragon Hype All About?

If you've looked at buying a laptop in the past 6 months or so, no doubt you've been inundated with marketing for new machines powered by Snapdragon processors. Historically, snapdragon are known for making chips for mobile devices, but recently they've been showing up in laptops and PCs. They're promising that their chips can deliver longer battery life, better performance, WiFi-7 compatibility, and access to AI features. So are they worth the spend? This blog will evaluate what Snapdragon brings to the table.

The main difference between most modern processors and Snapdragon's chips is the architecture. Most processors rely on x86 builds, which are power hungry, whereas Snapdragon uses ARM architecture. The idea is that ARM processors deliver higher efficiencies and use less power, making the processors appealing for companies who want longer battery lives. The downsides are that ARM isn't all that common, and so many app developers haven't build compatibility with ARM processors into their applications. This is particularly true for the built environment industry, where many CAD apps don't work on ARM-powered machines.

So what's the sell? Snapdragon say their processors should stand out for four reasons:

1. Efficiency and Battery Life: Snapdragon processors are designed to deliver optimal performance with minimal power. Snapdragon-powered devices, like Snapdragon PCs, often boast battery lives of 20 hours or more on a single charge.

2. Always-On Connectivity: Many Snapdragon processors have built-in 4G and 5G connectivity, making it easier for devices to stay connected on the go. This feature is particularly useful for remote work setups or on-the-go business needs. It has been appealing to those who travel a lot, or who spend a lot of time on client sites.

3. Integrated AI: Snapdragon chips include AI processing capabilities that enable features such as enhanced image processing, voice recognition, and predictive text. They claim that this makes for a smarter and more responsive user experience.

4. Fanless Design: Snapdragon processors run cool and don’t require fans, resulting in quieter and slimmer devices—a bonus for users who prefer a sleek, quiet setup. It also reduces the amount of moving parts in a machine - making it less likely to break.

Should you run to buy a Snapdragon-powered PC if you're currently running an Intel-powered machine? The answer really isn't a clear-cut yes or no. For businesses where employees frequently work remotely or need to travel, Snapdragon PCs provide great connectivity options by supporting 5G connectivity. This eliminates the need to rely solely on Wi-Fi, allowing team members to work efficiently from almost anywhere with cellular coverage. Equally, Snapdragon PCs are known for their long battery life, often lasting an entire day on a single charge. This longevity is ideal for professionals who can’t afford to stop work just to plug in. It's also worth considering whether splashing out on a new machine now may save you money in the long run.

For SMEs, Snapdragon PCs offer an exciting alternative to traditional Intel or AMD-based devices. These processors excel in environments that demand mobility, connectivity, and efficiency. While Snapdragon processors may not be suited for high-end tasks like heavy video editing or design, they are ideal for everyday business use like word processing, emailing, and video conferencing.

If you’re looking for reliable, portable, and cost-effective technology solutions, Snapdragon PCs might be worth considering. For advice on the best Snapdragon processors or IT support for SMEs, contact our team.