Microsoft Claims Copilot Plus Laptops Are Up to 58% Faster Than M3 MacBook Air
Microsoft has published a detailed comparison of its Copilot Plus laptops’ performance against Apple’s MacBooks, highlighting how Windows AI-powered laptops stack up against competing systems.
Key Findings from Microsoft’s Benchmark Tests:
- Performance and AI Capabilities
- Copilot Plus laptops outperformed the M3 MacBook Air by up to 58% in Cinebench 2024 and Procyon AI benchmarks.
- These laptops are up to five times faster than standard Windows laptops from five years ago.
- Copilot Plus laptops deliver 47% faster AI performance compared to the M3 MacBook Air.
- AMD-Powered Laptops
- Laptops equipped with Ryzen AI 300 chips are 38% faster than the M3 MacBook Air.
- They support up to 18 hours of video playback and 11 hours of web browsing, doubling the performance of five-year-old Windows laptops.
- Intel-Powered Laptops
- Devices featuring Intel Core Ultra 200V processors are 20% faster in running Office applications compared to the M3 MacBook Air.
- These laptops offer up to 21 hours of video playback and 14 hours of web browsing, significantly outperforming older Windows systems.
- Qualcomm-Powered Laptops
- Snapdragon X Elite-based laptops are up to 58% faster than the M3 MacBook Air and five times faster than older Windows laptops.
- They provide up to 22 hours of video playback and 15 hours of web browsing.
Addressing App Compatibility Concerns:
One major concern with ARM-based processors is software compatibility. Microsoft’s Prism emulation technology helps bridge the gap, enabling most applications to run smoothly. Microsoft reports that over 93% of user activity involves apps optimized for ARM devices, ensuring a near-seamless experience.
Challenges in Market Adoption:
Despite their impressive performance, Copilot Plus laptops face adoption challenges. In Q3 2024, only 720,000 Snapdragon-based laptops were sold, representing just 0.8% of the market. However, with advancements in Intel and AMD processors and broader software compatibility, Microsoft is optimistic about the future.
Microsoft’s push into AI-powered laptops demonstrates its ambition to redefine the Windows experience and compete directly with Apple’s M-series laptops.
The Asus Zenbook S 14 is among the first Copilot Plus laptops powered by a non-Qualcomm processor. Flagship devices like the Surface Laptop 7, Surface Pro 11, and Galaxy Book 4 Edge are considered some of the best ARM laptops available.
Microsoft’s AI laptops featuring AMD or Intel processors have been available since the second half of 2024. More of these devices are expected in 2025, further expanding the Copilot Plus ecosystem.