Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-64-100) and Snapdragon X Elite (X1E-80-100) are two system-on-chips (SoCs) designed for Windows laptops. The primary difference lies in their core configuration and performance ceiling: the X Plus features 10 cores, while the X Elite features 12, generally resulting in higher multi-threaded performance for the Elite variant.
Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-64-100) vs Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E-80-100): Full Comparison
Introduction
With the introduction of the Snapdragon X series, Qualcomm aims to bring a new level of performance and efficiency to the Windows PC ecosystem. This comparison focuses on two specific models: the Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-64-100) and the Snapdragon X Elite (X1E-80-100). Understanding their differences is important for evaluating the performance and efficiency trade-offs in upcoming laptops. This article will break down their specifications, performance targets, and key features to provide a clear distinction between the two platforms.
Architecture and Core Configuration
Both chips are built on the same underlying Oryon CPU architecture and 4nm manufacturing process, but their core configurations differ significantly.
- Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-64-100): This chip is configured with 10 CPU cores. All 10 are high-performance cores, with a maximum clock speed of 3.4 GHz. It does not include efficiency cores.
- Snapdragon X Elite (X1E-80-100): This chip features 12 CPU cores. Like the X Plus, all 12 are high-performance cores, capable of reaching higher peak clock speeds, typically up to 3.8 GHz on a dual-core boost.
The shared all-high-performance-core design is a key similarity, but the extra two cores and higher peak clock speeds on the Elite model typically translate to a higher multi-threaded performance potential.
Performance and GPU
The performance difference is the most defining factor between these two SoCs.
- CPU Performance: The Snapdragon X Elite, with its 12-core design, is positioned as the flagship for maximum multi-threaded workloads. The X Plus, with 10 cores, targets a very high level of performance but sits just below the Elite tier. For many everyday tasks, the difference may not be pronounced.
- Integrated GPU: This is another major point of differentiation. The Snapdragon X Plus integrates a Qualcomm Adreno GPU with 3.8 TFLOPS of performance. The Snapdragon X Elite variant in this comparison features a more powerful Adreno GPU rated at 4.6 TFLOPS. This gives the Elite model a clear advantage in graphics-intensive applications and gaming.
- NPU: Both platforms include a powerful Hexagon NPU (Neural Processing Unit) capable of 45 TOPS (Trillions of Operations Per Second). This makes them equally capable for on-device AI acceleration tasks.
Target Use Cases and Efficiency
While both chips emphasize power efficiency—a hallmark of the Arm architecture—their positioning targets slightly different segments.
- Snapdragon X Plus: This chip is likely to be found in premium thin-and-light laptops where a balance of strong performance, excellent battery life, and cost is a priority. It offers a high-performance alternative to traditional mobile processors.
- Snapdragon X Elite: Aimed at high-performance laptops and creator-focused devices, the Elite variant is for users who need the absolute maximum CPU and GPU performance available on the platform, while still benefiting from strong battery life compared to some traditional x86 competitors.
The thermal design power (TDP) can be configured by device manufacturers, but the Elite chip generally has a higher performance ceiling, which may be utilized in devices with more robust cooling systems.
Connectivity and Features
The two platforms share an identical suite of modern connectivity and platform features, which includes:
- 5G Modem: Both integrate the Snapdragon X65 5G Modem-RF system.
- Wi-Fi & Bluetooth: Both feature the FastConnect 7800 system for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4.
- Memory & Storage Support: Both support LPDDR5x memory (up to 8448 MT/s) and PCIe Gen 4 storage (NVMe, UFS 4.0).
- Display & Audio: Support for multiple external 4K/5K displays, AV1 codec decoding, and lossless audio are standard on both.
This parity means that the choice between X Plus and X Elite typically does not affect the laptop’s connectivity options or high-level feature set.
Comparison Table: Snapdragon X Plus vs X Elite
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus (X1P-64-100) | Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite (X1E-80-100) |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Cores | 10x Oryon (Performance) | 12x Oryon (Performance) |
| Max CPU Clock Speed | 3.4 GHz | Up to 3.8 GHz (Dual-Core Boost) |
| Total Cache | 42MB | 42MB |
| Integrated GPU | Qualcomm Adreno (3.8 TFLOPS) | Qualcomm Adreno (4.6 TFLOPS) |
| NPU Performance | 45 TOPS (Hexagon NPU) | 45 TOPS (Hexagon NPU) |
| Memory Support | LPDDR5x, up to 8448 MT/s | LPDDR5x, up to 8448 MT/s |
| 5G Modem | Integrated Snapdragon X65 | Integrated Snapdragon X65 |
| Wi-Fi / Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 (FastConnect 7800) | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 (FastConnect 7800) |
| Manufacturing Process | 4nm | 4nm |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the Snapdragon X Plus and X Elite?
The main differences are in the CPU core count and GPU performance. The X Elite (X1E-80-100) has 12 high-performance CPU cores and a 4.6 TFLOPS GPU, while the X Plus (X1P-64-100) has 10 cores and a 3.8 TFLOPS GPU.
Do both chips have the same AI performance?
Yes, both the Snapdragon X Plus and this specific X Elite variant feature an identical Hexagon NPU capable of 45 TOPS, offering the same level of on-device AI acceleration.
Will laptops with the X Plus have worse battery life than those with the X Elite?
Not necessarily. Battery life depends heavily on the laptop’s overall design, display, and battery capacity. While the X Elite has a higher performance ceiling, both chips are built on the same efficient architecture. An X Plus laptop could potentially have similar or even better battery life depending on its configuration and use.
Are the connectivity features like 5G and Wi-Fi 7 the same?
Yes, both platforms integrate the same Snapdragon X65 5G modem and FastConnect 7800 system for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, offering parity in high-speed connectivity.
Final Thoughts
The Qualcomm Snapdragon X Plus and Snapdragon X Elite represent two tiers within the same innovative platform. They share a foundational architecture, manufacturing process, and a comprehensive feature set including a powerful NPU and modern connectivity. The choice between them generally comes down to the level of CPU and GPU performance required. The X Elite is positioned for users who need the maximum multi-threaded and graphical performance available, while the X Plus offers a very high-performance alternative that may balance cost and efficiency in different laptop designs. Evaluating the specific performance needs for your tasks will be the key factor in determining which platform is the more suitable fit.