As expected, Qualcomm unveiled the new 8-core Snapdragon X Plus processor at IFA 2024.
The chip sits beneath the 12-core Snapdragon X Elite and 10-core Snapdragon X Plus models and shares the same architecture, but is noticeably weaker in the graphics department, making it ideal for entry-level laptops.
The 8-core Snapdragon X Plus has 12MB less of CPU cache (30MB total) and less than half the GPU power for games and productivity apps. That translates to about a 50% drop in graphics performance (according to Qualcomm’s own benchmarks), a 20% drop below the 12-core Snapdragon X Elite in CPU tasks, and roughly the same productivity performance as the 10-core X Plus processors.
Importantly, the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core will drive laptop prices down even further than its Qualcomm ARM siblings have done this year. Laptops featuring the new processor will go official soon, but devices like the Asus Vivobook S 15 will cost around $899 with the 8-core X Plus, while the 12-core X Elite-equipped units nominally cost $1,300. Dell’s Inspiron 14 will also retail for $899 thanks to the Snapdragon X Plus 8-core.