Snapdragon X Plus vs Apple M4: Who’s Winning the Silicon War?

 

Introduction 

The battle between Apple and Qualcomm has reached a new level in 2025 with the release of the Snapdragon X Plus and Apple M4 chips. Both are powerful, next-gen processors designed to revolutionize laptop and tablet performance — but which one truly delivers the best experience?

1. Introduction to the Contenders

Snapdragon X Plus: 10-core Oryon CPU, built on 4nm process, powering Windows AI laptops.

Apple M4: 9-core CPU, 10-core GPU, based on 3nm second-gen, powering the iPad Pro (and future Macs).

2. CPU Performance

Snapdragon X Plus brings impressive multi-core performance, closing the gap with Apple. Meanwhile, Apple M4 offers better single-core scores thanks to its mature silicon architecture.

3. GPU & Graphics Power

Apple M4 features a 10-core GPU with hardware ray tracing. Snapdragon’s Adreno GPU is efficient but lacks the same rendering punch.

4. AI & NPU Capabilities

Snapdragon X Plus leads in TOPS (45 TOPS) versus Apple’s 38 TOPS, giving it an edge in on-device AI features.

5. Battery Life & Efficiency

Apple M4 wins with a more efficient 3nm design and iPadOS/macOS optimization. Snapdragon is solid but depends on the OEM’s laptop build.

6. Software Ecosystem

Apple offers better app optimization for creatives. Snapdragon X Plus delivers productivity and AI-driven features in Windows 11.

7. Real-World Use Case Table

Task	Winner
Video Editing	Apple M4
AI Features	Snapdragon X Plus
Gaming	Apple M4

8. Price and Availability

Snapdragon X Plus laptops (Copilot+ PCs) start at $799 and launch in June 2025. Apple M4 is available now in iPad Pro 2025, starting at $999.

Final Verdict

• Performance: Close match, slight edge to M4 in single-core.
• AI: Snapdragon leads with stronger NPU.
• Battery: Apple M4 is more efficient.
• Graphics: Apple wins with better GPU tech.

Overall:

If you're into creative work and love Apple’s ecosystem — go with the M4. But for productivity, AI, and Windows versatility — Snapdragon X Plus is a powerful and promising choice.

FAQs

Q1: Is Snapdragon X Plus good for gaming?
A: Decent for light gaming, but Apple M4’s GPU is stronger.

Q2: Can I buy a Snapdragon X Plus laptop now?
A: Launch begins in June 2025 through major brands like Dell, Lenovo, and HP.

Q3: Will Apple M4 come to MacBooks?
A: Yes, expected by late 2025 in MacBook Air and Pro models.