Since the introduction of Apple Silicon in 2020, Apple’s Mac chips have set a new standard in the PC industry, delivering a unique blend of power and efficiency that has left even the most formidable Windows laptops struggling to keep pace. However, Qualcomm now believes it can rival Apple’s best, and while its efforts are remarkable, there is still ground to cover.
Qualcomm’s Bold Challenge
Recent benchmark data, discovered by Windows Latest, suggests that Qualcomm’s latest chip, the Snapdragon 8cx Gen 4, may have overtaken Apple’s M1 in performance. The benchmarks reveal that Qualcomm’s chip achieved an impressive 1,197 on the single-core test and a striking 9,337 on the multi-core test.
A Comparison with Apple’s M1
Comparatively, Apple’s M1 chip scores 8,315 on the multi-core test, positioning Qualcomm’s latest offering ahead in the multi-core domain. This can be attributed to the 8cx Gen 4’s eight performance cores and four efficiency cores, which is twice the number of performance cores found in Apple’s M1.
However, an important distinction remains evident in the results: Apple’s M1 maintains a significant lead in the single-core test, boasting a score of 2,334, nearly double that of Qualcomm’s best effort. This demonstrates that a substantial gap persists between the two products.
Challenges Ahead for Qualcomm
While the multi-core performance of Qualcomm’s chip is encouraging for enthusiasts of powerful and efficient Windows laptops, several hurdles remain.
Firstly, Apple’s M1 chip is now three years old and has been succeeded by the M2, which outperformed the 8cx Gen 4 in the multi-core test with a score of 9,741 and surpassed it significantly in the single-core test with a result of 2,589.
Furthermore, Apple is on the cusp of unveiling its M3 chip, anticipated to be a substantial leap forward, thanks to its highly efficient 3-nanometer manufacturing process. If Qualcomm’s best can’t surpass the M2, it may face an even more formidable competitor in the M3.
Lastly, a defining feature of Apple’s silicon is its exceptional performance combined with minimal power consumption. With double the number of performance cores, the 8cx Gen 4 may demand more power than Apple’s chips, potentially leading to increased battery usage and fan noise. In this aspect, Apple continues to excel.
Nonetheless, Qualcomm’s progress in narrowing the gap with Apple is an encouraging sign. For years, Windows users have awaited a serious competitor to Apple’s rapid and efficient silicon chips. Now, the landscape may finally be on the brink of transformation.
