What exactly is Copilot+?

Copilot+ is a new term introduced by Microsoft, referring to a new breed of PCs designed to harness exclusive AI features in Windows 11. These features include Live Caption, Auto Super Resolution, enhanced Cocreator for local image and text creation, advanced Windows Studio Effects, and the delayed but highly anticipated Windows Recall. To run these AI features, a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with at least 40 TOPS (Tera Operations Per Second) is required. Currently, only Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus SoCs meet this benchmark.

ARM64 Advantages and Disadvantages

Copilot+ PCs are not the first Windows on ARM laptops, but they set a new standard. Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus SoCs, using ARM64 architecture, promise strong performance and efficiency. For instance, the ASUS Vivobook S 15 (S5507) with a Snapdragon X Elite chip has shown impressive benchmark results, rivaling Apple’s M3 and surpassing Intel’s high-end Core i7 and i9 in some tests.

Advantages:

1. Performance: The Snapdragon X Elite delivers high performance in benchmarks, competing with top-tier processors.
2. Battery Life: ARM64 architecture offers excellent power efficiency. The ASUS Vivobook S 15, for example, achieved over 14 hours in PCMark 10’s Application rundown test.
3. AI Features: Copilot+ PCs come with exclusive AI tools that enhance productivity and creative tasks.

Disadvantages:

1. App Compatibility: Apps need to be compiled for ARM64 for native functionality. Non-native apps require an emulation layer, which may affect performance slightly.
2. Gaming Performance: Currently, ARM64 laptops lag behind in gaming performance compared to those with discrete GPUs from NVIDIA or AMD.

Should You Buy Now or Wait: Early Adopter VS. Early Majority ?

Early Adopter:

1. Cutting-Edge AI Features: If AI tools like Live Caption, Auto Super Resolution, and Cocreator are crucial to your workflow, current Copilot+ PCs provide a significant edge.
2. Performance and Efficiency: Snapdragon X Elite chips offer impressive performance and long battery life, making them a solid choice for productivity and creative tasks.
3. Early Adoption: Being at the forefront of technology can be exciting and beneficial for those who thrive on using the latest innovations.

Early Majority:

1. Upcoming Competitors: Intel, AMD, and NVIDIA are expected to release their Copilot+ compatible chips soon. These might offer better compatibility with existing x86-64 apps and potentially superior performance in certain areas.
2. Matured Ecosystem: Waiting could mean fewer issues with app compatibility and more refined AI features as Microsoft continues to tweak and improve Copilot+ capabilities.
3. Gaming Needs: If high-end gaming is a priority, waiting for Copilot+ PCs with discrete GPUs might be a better option.

Current Copilot+ PCs to Consider

Here are some standout Copilot+ laptops available now:

1. ASUS Vivobook S 15: Priced at $1,299, it features the Snapdragon X Elite chip, 16GB RAM, and 1TB SSD.
2. Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge: Starting at $1,349, it offers a stunning AMOLED display and up to 1TB of storage.
3. Acer Swift 14 AI: Available soon at $1,099, it promises excellent performance with the Snapdragon X Elite chip.
4. Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: Starting at $999, it’s a sleek option with either the Snapdragon X Elite or X Plus chipset.
5. Dell XPS 13: At $1,299, it combines premium design with Snapdragon X Elite performance.

Deciding whether to buy a Snapdragon Copilot+ PC now or wait for future releases from Intel, AMD, and NVIDIA depends on your immediate needs and preferences. If you’re eager to leverage advanced AI features and enjoy the benefits of ARM64 architecture, now is a great time to invest in a Copilot+ PC. However, if you prefer to wait for potentially better app compatibility and gaming performance, holding off for the next wave of Copilot+ laptops might be the wiser choice.