ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED With Snapdragon X Elite Review: ARM Is the Game-Changer for Windows Laptops

Key Specs

• Processor: Snapdragon X Elite Processor with AI Engine up to 45 TOPS
• Graphics: Qualcomm Adreno GPU
• Neural Processor: Qualcomm Hexagon NPU 45 TOPS
• Display: 15.6-inch, 3K (2880 x 1620) OLED, 120Hz refresh rate, 600 nits peak brightness, 100% DCI-P3 color gamut, 0.2ms response time
• Operating System: Windows 11 Home with support for Copilot, Recall, Live Captions, and Cocreator apps
• Memory: 16 GB LPDDR5X
• Storage: Up to 1 TB PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7 (802.11be), Bluetooth 5.4
• Camera: FHD IR camera with privacy shutter, Windows Hello support
• Ports: 2 x USB4 Type-C (supports 4K UHD external displays, up to 40 Gbps data transfers), 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x MicroSD card reader, 1 x Audio jack
• Keyboard & Touchpad: Customizable RGB backlit keyboard with dedicated Copilot key, 129.7 x 84.8 mm touchpad with noise reduction technology
• Audio: Harman Kardon-certified, Dolby Atmos sound system, built-in array microphone
• Battery: 70 Wh
• Dimensions: 352.6 x 226.9 x 14.7~15.9 mm
• Weight: Approx. 1.42 kg
• Color: Cool Silver

Windows laptops have long struggled to balance performance, battery life, and thermal management. Typically, you might get a laptop with excellent processing power but poor battery life or a device that stays cool but doesn't perform well under heavy tasks. This has been the trade-off for years, leaving users to compromise on one aspect or another.

But now, with the arrival of Qualcomm's much-hyped Snapdragon X Elite chip, the tech giant's ambitious claims and impressive benchmarks have set high expectations. After spending some time with the chip housed inside the all-new ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED, it's clear that Qualcomm wasn't exaggerating. The Vivobook S15 OLED aims to challenge Apple's MacBook Air M3 and deliver a robust Windows experience with remarkable battery life.

Performance: This Is Exciting

Let's dive straight into the nitty-gritty. The ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED, powered by Qualcomm's Snapdragon X Elite, offers a compelling glimpse into the future of Windows laptops.

This ARM-based processor is a significant departure from the traditional x86 architecture that has dominated the market. After extensive use, it's clear that the Snapdragon X Elite provides a performance profile that both meets and occasionally exceeds expectations.

Benchmark Performance

The Snapdragon X Elite demonstrates impressive performance through various benchmarks. The Vivobook S15 OLED achieved a Geekbench 6 single-core score of 2411 and a multi-core score of 14438. While I didn't have the Apple MacBook Air M3 on hand for direct comparison, I referred to Tom's Hardware for a complete picture.

According to their tests, the MacBook Air M3 scored 3082 in single-core and 12087 in multi-core benchmarks. The Vivobook S15 OLED outperforms the MacBook Air M3 in multi-core processing, highlighting its strength in handling tasks that utilize multiple cores.

For practical applications, such as video editing and rendering, the Snapdragon X Elite's capabilities are particularly evident. The Vivobook S15 OLED transcoded a 4K movie to 1080p in just 4 minutes and 28 seconds, whereas the MacBook Air M3 took 7 minutes and 19 seconds. This faster processing translates into quicker video exports and smoother multitasking.

Now coming to the comparison I did, I conducted tests comparing the Snapdragon X Elite (12 cores) in the Vivobook S15 OLED against the Intel Core Ultra 7 165H (16 cores) in the Dell Precision 5490. Here's how they stack up:

Booting Time: The Intel Core Ultra 7 edged out the Snapdragon X Elite in booting time.
Novabench: The Intel processor finished first, but the Snapdragon X Elite delivered a superior memory score with higher peak speeds.

Geekbench CPU Test: The Snapdragon X Elite led the test, completing it in 5 minutes compared to Intel's 6 minutes.

Geekbench GPU Test: The Intel Core Ultra 7 outperformed the Snapdragon in GPU benchmarks, with a notable difference in scores.

Cinebench 2024 Multi-Core CPU Test: The Snapdragon X Elite finished first, achieving a higher score than the Intel processor.

Notably, the Snapdragon-powered Vivobook S15 OLED dropped to 65% battery after these tests, while the Precision's battery fell to 39%. Both laptops started the tests with 100%. Should I even talk about battery efficiency here?

PCMark 10 Performance: The Snapdragon X Elite could not run the PCMark 10 test due to ARM compatibility issues, whereas the Intel Core Ultra 7 finished it successfully. This points to a current limitation in ARM software support.

Gaming Performance

Genshin Impact: This popular open-world game runs quite smoothly on the Vivobook S15 OLED. It performs well even when running on battery power, which is an insane feat. While there are occasional stutters and lag under high settings, the experience remains enjoyable, especially when the laptop is plugged in. For a smoother experience, lowering the graphics settings can help maintain consistent performance.

Rocket League: Another highlight is the performance in Rocket League. The game runs flawlessly at high graphics settings with a 120 FPS frame rate, making for a fluid and engaging gaming experience. This performance is particularly impressive considering the laptop's ARM architecture and the fact that it can handle such demanding titles effectively without needing to be plugged in.

GTA 5: Grand Theft Auto V performs reasonably well, achieving 60 FPS. However, the experience may be slightly less smooth compared to the higher-end Intel or AMD counterparts. The game runs better when plugged in, but it's still playable with decent performance on the Vivobook S15 OLED.

CS 2, Fortnite, and Valorant: Unfortunately, Counter-Strike 2 struggles on the Snapdragon X Elite, with performance issues making the game less enjoyable. Additionally, games like Fortnite and Valorant face compatibility issues because their anti-cheat software currently does not support ARM architecture.

Everyday Performance

In daily use, the laptop performs admirably. My typical workflow-comprising multiple browser tabs, streaming music, and running productivity apps like Slack and Microsoft Office-runs smoothly without noticeable slowdowns. The laptop remains zippy throughout, handling multitasking with ease and instantly waking up from sleep, ensuring a seamless and responsive experience for all my tasks.

Thermal Management and Efficiency

A standout feature of the Snapdragon X Elite is its thermal management. Despite extensive testing, the Vivobook S15 OLED remained cool with minimal fan activity-a notable improvement over many x86 processors, which often overheat under similar conditions.

A Promising Future

It's worth noting that the Snapdragon X Elite in the Vivobook S15 OLED is a base model, going up against a higher-end Intel Core Ultra chip. This performance is impressive in its own right, and there's substantial potential for the top-tier Snapdragon variants to offer even more robust competition.

Qualcomm's foray into high-performance ARM-based processors is setting the stage for a potential shake-up in the battle against Intel and AMD. The future looks promising as Qualcomm aims to push the boundaries of what ARM can achieve in the world of Windows laptops.

But Why ARM?

Good question. The transition from x86 to ARM architecture, as seen in the ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED with its Snapdragon X Elite processor, represents a major shift in the computing landscape. Understanding the differences between these architectures highlights why this change is significant for Windows laptops.

• x86 architecture has long been the backbone of Windows laptops, known for its strong performance in high-compute tasks but often with higher power consumption and heat generation. This design, used by Intel and AMD, benefits from broad software compatibility, as most applications have been developed for x86.

• In contrast, ARM architecture, exemplified by the Snapdragon X Elite, prioritizes energy efficiency. ARM processors are designed for better battery life and cooler operation, making them ideal for smartphones and tablets. However, they face challenges with software compatibility, as many applications still rely on x86 emulation, which can affect performance.

This transition to ARM in Windows laptops is significant for a few reasons.

• Improved Battery Life: ARM architecture, such as the Snapdragon X Elite, enhances battery efficiency, as evidenced by the Vivobook S15 OLED's impressive 12-hour screen-on time.
• Cooler Operation: ARM processors are designed to run cooler, reducing heat generation and leading to a more comfortable user experience.
• Energy Efficiency: ARM chips are built to maximize performance per watt, offering better energy efficiency compared to traditional x86 processors.
• Potential for Innovation: The shift to ARM paves the way for more innovative laptop designs as software support improves and performance gaps narrow.
• Reduced Power Consumption: ARM's efficient power usage contributes to longer battery life and can potentially lower overall energy consumption.

The Limitations of ARM Right Now

Not all apps run on ARM natively since many were developed for the x86 platform. When you run an x86 app on an ARM device, such as this Snapdragon laptop, the app's instructions must be converted into ARM-compatible instructions. This is where Prism, Microsoft's advanced translation layer, comes in. Prism significantly enhances performance, allowing x86-64 applications to run faster on ARM devices compared to previous generations.

However, there are some drawbacks:

1. Performance Overheads: Emulated apps generally run slower than native ARM applications.
2. Compatibility Issues: Some apps may face bugs or reduced functionality.
3. Increased Resource Usage: Emulation can consume more CPU and memory.
4. Dependency on Developer Updates: Effective emulation depends on app optimization.
5. Limits of Emulation: Complex apps or those with specific hardware needs may not perform well.

To fully harness the potential of the Snapdragon X-Elite and similar ARM processors, developers need to prioritize creating and optimizing ARM-native applications. As ARM technology advances, adopting this architecture will be crucial for maximizing performance and compatibility.

For regular apps not designed for ARM, the emulator works well. But, the benchmarks show that running these apps through the emulator puts extra strain on the X Elite processor.

A Big Issue I Faced

I've been experiencing significant problems with YouTube playback recently, which is strange since the site was functioning perfectly before. When opening YouTube and playing a video, the site freezes and crashes my laptop, requiring a restart to regain functionality.

It also auto-refreshes unexpectedly and corrupts video playback (screenshot attached). This issue occurs on both Chrome and Edge and has persisted for several days, making the site unusable with constant crashes, lags, stutters, and playback problems.
I didn't encounter any issues on my AMD laptop, so could this be related to ARM? I don't have an answer at the moment.

AI Features: A Big Focus of Copilot+ PCs

The ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED incorporates a suite of AI-driven features that significantly enhance its usability and functionality, showcasing the capabilities of the Snapdragon X Elite processor.

Live Captions: This feature provides real-time subtitles for videos and audio content, making media consumption more accessible. It works effectively with YouTube and other supported platforms, offering accurate captions for most dialogues.

However, the feature is currently limited in language support, which restricts its utility for non-English content. In cases where background noise or music interferes, captions may be less accurate, but overall, it's a valuable tool for clearer understanding.

AI Noise Cancelling: During video calls, the AI noise-cancelling feature helps in filtering out background sounds, ensuring that your voice comes through clearly. This feature is particularly useful in noisy environments, enhancing communication by minimizing distractions.

Adaptive Dimming and Adaptive Lock: The adaptive dimming function adjusts the screen brightness based on ambient lighting, reducing eye strain and optimizing power consumption. Adaptive Lock automatically locks the laptop when you step away, enhancing security and conserving battery life.

Cocreator: One of the standout features is Cocreator, which transforms rough sketches into polished artwork in real-time. This tool is designed to streamline creative workflows, making it easier to refine and finalize designs quickly.

It's particularly useful for graphic designers and artists who need to convert initial ideas into professional-quality visuals efficiently.

However, Recall, which was the headlining feature meant to showcase the capabilities of Copilot+ PCs, has been delayed due to serious security concerns.

Battery Life: This is Insane for Windows

Battery life has always been a pain point for Windows laptops, but the Vivobook S15 OLED changes the narrative. With a 70Wh battery, I managed to get around 12 hours of screen-on time, which is impressive for a Windows device. While this doesn't quite match ASUS's claim of 18 hours or the MacBook Air's 15 hours, it's still a significant improvement. During a typical workday, with multiple Chrome tabs open, Spotify running, and Slack active, I was able to end the day with enough battery left to watch a few YouTube videos.

When the laptop does run out of juice, I can get it back up to 50% in just 40 minutes with the supplied 90W charger.

Design: Sleek but Uninspired

The ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED presents a functional and durable design with its all-metal build, which offers both a sleek, minimalistic appearance and military-grade resilience. The laptop is thin and lightweight, making it easy to transport, but its overall look is rather conventional.

Given that this is a Snapdragon-powered laptop-marking a significant technological shift-I had hoped for a design that would reflect its innovative nature.

Display: Impressed as Always

I have been a fan of ASUS's displays on their laptops, and the 15.6-inch OLED panel of the Vivobook S15 OLED continues to win my heart. With a sharp 3K resolution (2880 x 1620), it offers exceptionally clear and vibrant visuals. The 120Hz refresh rate enhances the fluidity of motion, making it ideal for tasks requiring smooth transitions, such as video editing or gaming.

The display's color accuracy is impressive, covering 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut, which ensures rich, true-to-life colors that are particularly beneficial for graphic work and media consumption. The panel also achieves a peak brightness of 600 nits, allowing for excellent visibility even in brightly lit environments.

Additionally, the OLED technology contributes to deeper blacks and more contrast, enhancing overall image quality and making media experiences more immersive.

Keyboard and Touchpad: Works Great

The laptop's full-sized keyboard includes customizable RGB backlighting and a dedicated Copilot key, with comfortable key travel and a numpad for added functionality.

The touchpad is generously sized and provides smooth, responsive tracking, enhancing the overall user experience.

Audio and Ports: Nails the Essentials

Equipped with Harman Kardon-tuned speakers, the Vivobook S15 OLED delivers clear and balanced sound, with an additional Volume Booster setting available through the MyAsus app.

The laptop also features a range of ports, including USB-A (x2), USB-C (x2), HDMI 2.1, a headphone jack, and a microSD card reader, providing ample connectivity options without the need for extra dongles.

Price

The ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED is priced at ₹1,24,990. It is available for purchase in Cool Silver.

Should You Get the ASUS Vivobook S 15 OLED?

The ASUS Vivobook S15 OLED is an impressive ARM-based laptop offering strong performance and exceptional battery life. If your workflow applications are ARM-compatible and the laptop's features align with your needs, it's a compelling choice. However, if you rely on apps that lack ARM support, it might be wise to wait for the platform to mature further.