Qualcomm has revealed the Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme and Snapdragon X2 Elite, two new models in its Snapdragon X series. These next-generation platforms are designed for premium Windows 11 PCs.
The company says both chips bring big improvements in performance, battery life, and AI power. The launch shows Qualcomm’s growing push into the Windows PC market, with a clear focus on AI-driven workflows and thin, light laptops.
Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme: Ultra-Premium Performance
The Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme is built for professionals who need advanced computing. Qualcomm says it can fit into portable devices and handle tasks like media editing, data analysis, scientific research, and AI work.
The Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme will fuel the fastest, most powerful and efficient Windows PCs on the market. #SnapdragonSummit
· 18-core CPU
· First Arm compatible 5GHz CPU
· 80 TOPs Qualcomm Hexagon NPU pic.twitter.com/bPpKdlVtz8
— Snapdragon (@Snapdragon) September 24, 2025
It features the 3rd Gen Qualcomm Oryon CPU, which is up to 75% faster than other CPUs using the same power. Compared to the previous generation, a revamped Adreno GPU provides 2.3 times more performance per watt.
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On the AI side, the platform comes with the Hexagon NPU, capable of 80 trillion operations per second (TOPS). Qualcomm claims this is the highest AI processing power for laptops to date. This allows smooth multitasking across Copilot+ PCs and AI-heavy applications.
Snapdragon X2 Elite: Balanced for Everyday Use
For users who want premium performance but balanced efficiency, Qualcomm is introducing the Snapdragon X2 Elite. This chip promises 31% faster performance at the same power levels and consumes 43% less power than its predecessor.
It also includes the 80 TOPS Hexagon NPU, making it suitable for AI multitasking and productivity tasks. Qualcomm says this balance makes the X2 Elite ideal for portable laptops that can last long hours without charging.
Focus on Battery Life
One of Qualcomm’s biggest strengths is battery efficiency. Both new platforms are designed to deliver multi-day battery life without sacrificing speed or AI performance. The combination of Oryon CPU, Adreno GPU, and Hexagon NPU helps extend usage while maintaining smooth performance.
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Qualcomm’s Push in the PC Market
Kedar Kondap, senior vice president and general manager of compute and gaming at Qualcomm, said: “Snapdragon X2 Elite strengthens our leadership in the PC industry, providing legendary leaps in performance, AI processing and battery life to enable the experiences that consumers deserve.” The first devices powered by Snapdragon X2 Elite chips are expected in the first half of 2026.
Qualcomm vs Intel & AMD
Qualcomm is competing with AMD and Intel in the high-end PC market with the Snapdragon X2 Elite Extreme and X2 Elite. Qualcomm is focusing on fast AI performance and long battery life, which could change the future of Windows 11 laptops.
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Despite years of market dominance by AMD and Intel, analysts say this move reflects a transition toward AI-centred computing, where efficiency and intelligent on-device AI are just as important as raw performance.
