Snapdragon X2 Elite with Adreno X2 Graphics Shows Higher Gaming Performance Than Intel and AMD

Qualcomm has detailed the architecture of its new Adreno X2 graphics processor, which will be the foundation for laptops on the Snapdragon X2 Elite platform. A key statement from the manufacturer is that these systems are ready to compete with traditional x86 laptops in gaming, with over 90% of popular Windows games working on them right out of the box.

The Adreno X2 is based on an updated architecture, and the GPU design now incorporates four independent modules, which allowed for an increase in the number of compute units. The total amount of on-chip memory was increased, and the L2 cache was doubled in size. This not only boosts peak performance but also significantly improves power efficiency.

Compared to the previous Adreno X1 generation, the new processor shows a 70% performance uplift in the 3DMark Time Spy benchmark at the same power level. When tapping into its full potential, the frame rate in demanding AAA titles can more than double. In Baldur's Gate 3 and Cyberpunk 2077, the new graphics core delivers an average of 50% higher performance than the latest Intel integrated graphics. In most tests, the system maintained a frame rate above 30 FPS at medium quality settings and 1080p resolution.

A major hurdle for gaming on ARM laptops has been anti-cheat systems, many of which would simply block the game from launching. However, the developers of these systems have now begun releasing versions of their products adapted for the ARM architecture. According to Qualcomm, support has already been secured for popular anti-cheat software like Easy Anti-Cheat, BattlEye, and Denuvo, paving the way for hundreds of games that previously wouldn't run.

The software side hasn't been overlooked either. Qualcomm intends to move to a monthly driver update cycle, which is the standard for the gaming market. For user convenience, a special application for graphics customization and installing updates will be available. The GPU itself features native support for modern graphics APIs, including DirectX 12 Ultimate and Vulkan 1.4. Snapdragon X2 Elite laptops are ceasing to be niche devices and are transforming into versatile solutions capable of handling gaming as well.