Category: Computers

February 7, 2025
Snapdragon X Elite Windows Laptops Surge in Popularity December 2024
When Qualcomm introduced the Snapdragon X ARM APUs, there was a lot of buzz since it seemed like Windows devices would finally match MacBooks in energy efficiency. However, it’s clear now that the Snapdragon X SoCs didn’t live up to the expectations many had.
Performance Comparison
To start with, Qualcomm’s APUs aren’t giving any significant performance boost compared to the latest Intel and AMD processors. While the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chips are indeed efficient, many laptops featuring Intel Lunar Lake or AMD Strix Point APUs offer similar or even better battery lives.
App Compatibility Issues
Another concern is the app compatibility with the Snapdragon X SoCs, along with the absence of affordable Snapdragon X Windows laptops. All these factors led us to conclude that “there are no real arguments for a Windows laptop with an ARM processor” in our review of the Microsoft Surface Laptop 7.
Despite these clear drawbacks, Qualcomm has managed to secure a solid market presence as of December 2024.
Market Share Insights
In late November 2024, we reported that Snapdragon X-based Windows laptops held a meager 0.8% market share in Q3 2024. This finding was quite harsh, indicating that Qualcomm had a significant challenge ahead to meet its target of 30-50% market share by 2029.
However, times seem to be improving for Qualcomm. CEO Cristiano Amon stated that “Snapdragon X Series had more than 10% share of the greater than $800 Windows laptops in U.S. retail.” If these numbers are correct, December 2024 shipments show a notable improvement from previous reports.
Limited Claims on Global Market
Nevertheless, observant readers may have realized that Cristiano Amon is referring to a >10% share only for laptops above a certain price point. Therefore, Qualcomm hasn’t made any statements about global shipments or laptops priced under $800. This is logical as there’s a shortage of budget-friendly Snapdragon X Windows devices available. Yet, this news is encouraging for Qualcomm and fans of Snapdragon who want to see better performance from Windows ARM laptops.
That being said, Qualcomm still has considerable work ahead to ensure that Snapdragon laptops can compete evenly with Intel and AMD machines throughout the Windows ecosystem.
Challenges Ahead
A major challenge for laptops using the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus SoCs is the inconsistent app compatibility. This has been a concern since Microsoft first promoted ARM-based Windows laptops as a genuine alternative. Although the situation has improved, both Microsoft and Qualcomm still have quite a bit of work left to address these issues.
Moreover, the absence of budget Snapdragon laptops will certainly limit the company’s ability to reach a broader customer base. This is especially true internationally and in regions where consumer spending habits are much lower than in the U.S. Qualcomm aims to tackle this issue with the introduction of the 8-core Snapdragon X SoC.
Finally, to truly excel beyond the current x86 competition, Qualcomm must deliver enhanced performance and energy efficiency.
Regardless of the outcome, it’s encouraging to see Qualcomm making strides in the market. Increased competition is always beneficial for consumers.
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Tags: Microsoft Surface Laptop 7, Qualcomm, Snapdragon X
February 7, 2025
AMD Ryzen 5 7400F Reaches Thermal Limit Due to Poor IHS Paste
AMD recently unveiled the Ryzen 5 7400F, a six-core Zen 4 processor, in late January. This CPU serves as a more affordable option compared to the latest Zen 5, Ryzen 9000 series. So far, its release has been restricted to China. A recent review on Bilibili suggests that AMD might have made some compromises to keep the price low.
Price and Performance Insights
According to the review from Bilibili, it appears that AMD has made some adjustments that could affect performance. The Ryzen 5 7400F aims to attract budget-conscious consumers, but the trade-offs might be noticeable for some users. The launch strategy seems to focus on making this CPU as accessible as possible in a competitive market.
Conclusion on Market Position
In summary, the Ryzen 5 7400F provides an option for those looking for a cost-effective CPU. However, potential buyers should consider the implications of AMD’s choices in order to maintain a lower price. Though its availability is limited currently to China, it will be interesting to see how the market responds to this new offering.
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Tags: amd, Ryzen 5 7400F, Zen 4
February 7, 2025
Snapdragon X Chips Power 10% of High-End US Windows PCs
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series chips are now said to be in 10% of high-end Windows PCs in the U.S. that cost $800 or more—a significant rise from just 0.8% in Q3 of last year. This achievement was shared during Qualcomm’s Q1 2025 earnings call. While the 10% statistic might sound impressive, it’s crucial to understand that it pertains solely to the high-end Windows PC market, which is a specific segment.
Growing Popularity
The Snapdragon X chips are designed for devices that are always on and connected, gaining popularity for their excellent balance of performance and efficiency. Qualcomm has additionally announced an octa-core Snapdragon X chip aimed at lowering the entry price for these devices to about $600. This price reduction may attract a larger audience to consider this new platform, potentially boosting its market share even further. Furthermore, the increasing number of apps that are getting native support for this platform enhances its attractiveness.
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Qualcomm is eyeing substantial growth. The company has set a goal of securing over 50% of the Windows PC market in the next five years. To achieve this, Qualcomm is introducing a variety of mini PCs and laptops powered by its Snapdragon X chips. ITHome reports that over 80 different PC models featuring these chips are set to launch this year, with an additional 100 models expected next year. This means that consumers in this price bracket will have a wide range of lightweight options boasting impressive battery life and possibly various on-device AI capabilities.
Microsoft’s Contributions
In a related context, Microsoft is working on integrating more on-device AI features into its PCs, starting with those powered by Snapdragon X chips. However, consumer awareness of ARM-based Windows PCs remains somewhat limited, and Qualcomm faces the challenge of persuading users of the advantages of its chips, like extended battery life and native app support.
Tags: ARM-based technology, Qualcomm Snapdragon X, Windows PCs
February 7, 2025
Portronics Adapto 100: 100W GaN Charger for Laptops Launched in India
Portronics has recently introduced a new tech gadget for the Indian audience. The latest addition is the Adapto 100, a GaN charger that can charge several devices simultaneously. Its capabilities aren’t just limited to smartphones; it can also charge laptops. Let’s dive into the details.
Specifications of the Portronics Adapto 100
Before we get into the specifications, one striking feature of the Portronics Adapto 100 is its look. The charger has a design similar to the OnePlus charging adapter, featuring the well-known white brick and a red cable. Regarding its construction, the brand claims that the Adapto 100 offers better heat management, quicker charging, improved efficiency, and a compact size.
Versatile Charging Options
Even with its lightweight nature, this charger is compatible with a range of devices, including tablets and laptops, making it a versatile option for charging. The Adapto 100 includes two USB Type-C power delivery ports along with one USB Type-A quick charge port. Interestingly, it can automatically detect the power needs of each connected device. So, you won’t have to stress about varying charging speeds when powering up your laptops or smartphones.
Safety Features and Pricing
There are also several safety features integrated to guard against overcharging, overheating, and other issues, ensuring a safer charging experience. The Adapto 100 is available at an introductory price of 2,999 INR, though the regular price is set at 4,999 INR. Customers will also receive a 6-month warranty and can purchase this product through Amazon, Flipkart, and physical stores. This launch comes just days after the company revealed the Iron Beats III 200W party speakers and the Power Plate 23 and 22 extension boards.
Tags: Adapto 100, GaN charger, Portronics
February 7, 2025
Anker Launches New 140W Braided 2-in-1 USB-C Cable
Anker has introduced a new, longer version of its 2-in-1 USB-C to USB-C Cable. The first model was the company’s first attempt at this type of accessory and was launched globally last June. Anker stated that this product was designed for travelers and aimed to keep workspaces organized.
New Length and Features
A new iteration has recently been listed on Amazon in Germany. The previous version of the Anker 2-in-1 USB-C to USB-C Cable measured 4 ft (or 120 cm) and came in two colors: black and white. The new model boasts a longer length of 180 cm (approximately 6 ft) and is offered in the same two color options. The extra length comes from the base cable, which has been extended from 90 cm (around 3 ft) to 150 cm (about 5 ft). The upper segments remain at a length of up to 30 cm (nearly 1 ft), and users can adjust this length using a cable slider.
Performance and Durability
Other than the increased length, both versions of the 2-in-1 nylon braided cable look the same. They can deliver a maximum power output of 140W when charging one device, which Anker claims could charge a MacBook Pro 16 (M3 Pro) up to 50% in just 20 minutes. When charging two devices at once, the maximum output is limited to 130W, with the distribution depending on the devices connected (see table below). Additionally, the cable is touted to endure up to 10,000 bends.
Pricing and Availability
The new Anker 2-in-1 USB-C to USB-C Cable (180 cm, 140W, Braided) is priced at €21.99 on Amazon Germany, which is €2 higher than the original 120 cm model. It remains uncertain when this longer version will be available in other regions such as the US and UK, where the previous model is being sold.
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Tags: 180 cm, 2-in-1 USB-C Cable, Anker
February 6, 2025
New Apple Mac mini Dock with M.2 SSD Expansion for $99
Satechi has clearly put in a lot of effort into their latest Mac mini dock, which was first introduced in November and then highlighted again last month at CES 2025. Interestingly, this dock launched just after RayCue released its own version, which is currently priced at $99 on Amazon, and RayCue has since introduced an updated model.
Performance Comparison
While RayCue’s upgraded dock boasts impressive 40 Gbps NVMe SSD transfer speeds, Satechi’s ‘Mac Mini M4 Stand & Hub with SSD Enclosure’ offers a maximum transfer rate of 10 Gbps for the drive slot. It supports a range of M.2 SSD sizes, including 2230, 2242, 2260, and 2280. The two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports on the dock also share the same maximum transfer speed, while it has additional ports for SD 4.0 UHS-II and USB 2.0 Type-A, which provide transfer speeds of up to 2.49 Gbps (312 MB/s) and 480 Mbps, respectively.
Features and Availability
In summary, Satechi’s Mac mini dock offers fewer ports compared to RayCue’s version, even though it retails for $99.99. However, it does include a convenient cut-out for accessing the power button on the mini-PC, something that many competitors, including RayCue, lack. There are reports that Satechi is only releasing a limited number of these docks before a more extensive launch planned for March. As of now, the dock is still available for purchase on Satechi’s website.
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Tags: RayCue Mac Mini Dock, Satechi Mac Mini M4 Stand, USB 3.2 Gen 2
February 6, 2025
New Snapdragon X Chip Laptops Launching in India This Month
Qualcomm has recently revealed its new Snapdragon X platform that will be the driving force behind forthcoming Windows PCs. Now, we have confirmation on when this innovative processor will debut in India. This marks the third addition to the series, so let’s dive into the details.
Launch Date of Snapdragon X
To refresh your memory, the chip manufacturer expanded its Snapdragon X series with the introduction of the Snapdragon X. This model serves as the basic option in the collection, functioning as an entry-level SoC alongside the already successful Snapdragon X Plus and Snapdragon X Elite processors. Qualcomm’s goal with this chipset is to make a deeper impact in the laptop market. The Snapdragon X is intended to cater to both budget-conscious and mid-range consumers.
PCs Powered by Snapdragon X Chip
In a recent promotional poster, the company announced that the new Snapdragon X platform designed for AI-powered PCs will arrive in India on February 24, 2025. Initially revealed for Windows PCs, this processor will be available in laptops from brands like Acer, ASUS, HP, Dell, and Lenovo, all priced below $600. However, it remains uncertain which specific laptop models in India will incorporate this new budget-friendly AI chip.
Specifications and Features
According to previous announcements, the Snapdragon X is equipped with eight CPU cores that can reach speeds of up to 3.0GHz. It boasts a total memory cache of 30MB and is built on the ARM architecture, akin to its more advanced counterparts. The Snapdragon X comes with an Adreno GPU capable of delivering up to 1.7 TFLOPS, which is adequate for casual gaming, older video games, and various everyday tasks. One of its standout features is the dedicated NPU that provides 45 TOPS of AI performance, making it suitable for Copilot+ functionalities. Thus, this new chip could bring significant improvements to the budget laptop market in India.
Tags: Qualcomm, Snapdragon X, Windows PCs
February 5, 2025
RISC-V Mainboard for Desktop and Laptop Configurations
Framework has recently launched its first RISC-V mainboard, but there’s an important point to consider about how it should be used. Last June, the company partnered with DeepComputing to announce the RISC-V Mainboard and then introduced it to an early access program five months later.
Availability and Usage
Now, anyone can purchase the RISC-V Mainboard as a drop-in replacement for AMD Ryzen or Intel Core mainboards that are meant for the Framework Laptop 13. Additionally, this new mainboard can be placed into a Cooler Master Mainboard Case, allowing for a desktop setup, which is priced at $39.
Specifications and Features
In essence, the RISC-V Mainboard has the same dimensions as the current Framework Laptop 13 Mainboards, but it includes four USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-C ports. Among these, two ports are capable of providing 60 W through USB Power Delivery, while only one supports DisplayPort 1.4 Alt Mode. Framework also mentioned in its blog that:
This board is primarily for developers to help speed up the growth of the RISC-V software ecosystem, so if you’re after a ready-to-use product for consumers, it might be better to wait for future offerings.
Pricing Information
As of now, the Framework Marketplace lists the RISC-V Mainboard at a price of $199. It’s interesting to note that the StarFive JH7100 processor is available for a much lower price in a Waveshare single-board computer, currently going for $109.99 on Amazon, and it comes with a wider range of ports. For more information, check out Framework’s official website.
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Tags: DeepComputing, Framework Laptop 13, Framework RISC-V Mainboard
February 5, 2025
Lian Li Launches Lancool 207 & 217 PC Cases at 2025 Expo
Recently, Lian Li has been stirring excitement among its followers on social media by sharing sneak peeks of new cases, coolers, and other accessories. Now, the company has unveiled more information on what fans can look forward to during its Digital Expo on February 7th, 2025. At the forefront is the much-anticipated Lancool 217, which will come with options for wood trim. System builders should also keep an eye out for a digital variant of the Lancool 207 case, along with an updated Hydroshift II LCD 360R AIO cooler.
Lancool 217 Details
After missing its initial launch date, the Lancool 217 is set to make a return during the upcoming YouTube showcase. This Lian Li case aligns with the trend of wood PC cases, offering two distinct style choices. Customers can select from a black version with dark wood or a white variant featuring lighter wood details. To ensure optimal airflow, the case includes five pre-installed fans, which feature two front 170mm blowers and a couple of 120mm GPU fans that have reversed blades. While Lian Li hasn’t specified the exact availability, the starting price for Lancool 217 SKUs is $119.99.
Features of the Lancool 207
The Lancool 207 is a budget-friendly microATX case that provides plenty space for 360 mm AIO radiators and the longest Nvidia graphics cards. One of the case’s standout features is its front-mounted PSU shroud, which allows easy access to ports. Even though the affordable Lancool 207 might not seem like an obvious choice for a digital display, Lian Li plans to include a six-inch screen that will work with its L-Connect 3 RGB app. When it becomes available, buyers can expect to pay $109.99 for the Lancool 207 Digital.
Additional Cases and Coolers
At the 2025 Digital Expo, Lian Li will also showcase the Lancool 4 and the O11D Mini V2. Following the spacious modular Lancool 3 mid-tower, the Lancool 4 appears just as flexible. Owners have the ability to reposition the motherboard tray and PSU shroud around the chassis to accommodate up to a 12-fan cooling setup. Lastly, the O11D Mini V2 is a dual-chamber case that highlights components while keeping things organized with back-connect motherboard support.
Also making an appearance is the Hydroshift II LCD 360 AIO cooler, which now features a slimmer radiator. It boasts a 2.1-inch LCD screen and an ARGB light strip that can be partially controlled wirelessly.
Interested individuals can tune in to the Lian Li 2025 Digital Expo on YouTube, which begins at 9 am EST on February 7th.
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Tags: Hydroshift II LCD 360, Lancool 207, Lancool 217
February 5, 2025
Apple M5 Starts Mass Production at TSMC’s N3P Node
Apple’s new chip for laptops and tablets, called the M5, has begun mass production. This means we can expect it to be available around mid to late 2025, probably with either an iPad Pro or a MacBook Pro. Unlike earlier reports suggested, it won’t utilize TSMC’s N2 node but will rely on the N3-based N3P instead. This choice should provide a 5% boost in performance and enhance power efficiency by up to 10%.
Improvements in Design
Even though it won’t feature TSMC’s cutting-edge N2 gate-all-around technology (Nanosheets), the Apple M5 will include several significant upgrades. Among these is the SoIC-mH (System-on-Integrated-Chips-holding-Horizontal) packaging, enabling a more compact design. Additionally, the new substrate design will permit more chips to be stacked vertically, making the architecture more efficient. The report also hints at the introduction of an Apple M5 Ultra chip.
Future Production Plans
Industry analyst Ming-Chi Kuo hinted at the M5 Ultra’s production starting in 2026, signaling a comeback of the Ultra-branded chips from Apple after a two-generation gap. Kuo also mentioned that the Apple M5 will uniquely separate the unified CPU and GPU, which could be a strategic move to enhance AI performance—an area that has gained significant attention recently.
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Tags: Apple M5, iPad Pro, MacBook Pro