2025’s Best Windows on Arm Laptops: Power, Portability, and AI at Your Fingertips

From the moment Windows first appeared on Arm-based laptops, the promise was tantalizing: all the power, versatility, and software compatibility of Microsoft’s ecosystem, running on the ultra-efficient, always-connected hardware that transformed smartphones and tablets. But for years, the reality lagged behind. Early adopters encountered clunky performance, limited app compatibility, and devices that struggled to stand out in a crowded PC market dominated by x86 processors. Fast forward to 2025, however, and the picture looks radically different: powered by a wave of Snapdragon X series chipsets and a deeply optimized Windows 11 24H2, Windows on Arm (WoA) has entered its golden age, with a raft of Copilot+ PCs vying for your attention.
This feature presents an in-depth, critical look at the best Windows on Arm laptops in 2025, examining their strengths, the risks, and what you need to know before making a buying decision—whether you’re a business user, creative professional, student, or tech enthusiast.

The State of Windows on Arm in 2025: A New Dawn​

Windows on Arm’s maturation is due to several converging factors. Most notably, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X series—particularly the Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus families—has closed the performance gap between Arm and x86, offering robust processing, powerful on-device AI, and class-leading battery life. Meanwhile, Windows 11 version 24H2 steps up with deep OS-level optimizations for Arm and introduces Copilot+ features that make the most of AI silicon. Crucially, app compatibility has improved, thanks to the new Prism translation layer and Microsoft’s drive to get major developers on board with native Arm builds.
Industry reviews, such as those from XDA Developers, Windows Central, and The Verge, consistently highlight how these advances have made WoA machines not just competitive but arguably the best laptops in several key segments.

Benchmarks: Performance and Battery Life​

According to verified results and cross-referenced industry benchmarks:

• Snapdragon X Elite devices now rival, and in some cases outperform, top Intel Core Ultra and Apple M3 laptops in multi-core performance and sustained workloads.
• Battery life is consistently quoted at 15–20 hours in real-world use, with standby times measured in weeks—this is comparable to, or surpasses, most MacBooks.
• AI-powered features (such as Microsoft Copilot+, live captions, and creative tools) run locally with minimal lag, thanks to integrated neural processing units (NPUs) offering over 40 TOPS (trillions of operations per second) in some configurations.

Yet, there are nuances. Not every app has a native Arm version, and some professional Windows software may still run slower via emulation. Heavy gamers and those dependent on legacy x86 drivers should research device-specific compatibility.

The Best Windows on Arm Laptops in 2025​

Choosing the best WoA laptop in 2025 means deciding what you value most: design, portability, performance, display, or business features. Let’s critically evaluate the top contenders.

Microsoft Surface Laptop 7: The New Standard​

The Surface Laptop 7, widely recognized as Microsoft’s finest clamshell yet, leads the pack in 2025. Available in 13.8- and 15-inch sizes, its redesigned chassis sports narrower bezels, rounded corners, and a lighter overall build—modern, portable, and stylish without sacrificing function.

Strengths​

• Performance: Powered by either the Snapdragon X Elite (with up to 12 cores, dual-core boost, and top-tier NPUs) or the Snapdragon X Plus, it delivers performance previously unthinkable for Windows Arm laptops.
• Display: A near 100% DCI-P3 LCD for the best color reproduction in a Surface device to date, with reduced reflectivity for outdoor use.
• Ports: Two USB4 (Type-C) ports, a classic USB Type-A, Surface Connect, headphone jack, and microSD card reader—meeting the needs of most modern users and professionals.
• Webcam: 1080p quality, finally competitive with other premium ultrabooks.
• Battery Life: All-day real-world use, typically 16–18 hours per charge in mixed workloads.

Risks / Drawbacks​

• GPU-Intensive Tasks: While excellent for general productivity, integrated graphics still fall short for high-end gaming or 3D design.
• Software: A few creative and legacy Windows apps may still lack full Arm-native support, requiring users to rely on emulation.

Multiple trusted reviewers (notably Rich Woods at XDA and The Verge’s Monica Chin) have praised the Surface Laptop 7 for its seamless transition between battery and plugged-in modes, its performance, and its understated but bold redesign.

Dell XPS 13 (2024, Qualcomm): Premium Reinvented​

The Dell XPS 13, now in its second generation with Arm silicon, retains its crown as the best premium Windows laptop for users who want both style and substance.

Strengths​

• Processor: Snapdragon X Elite across the range, ensuring flagship performance.
• Design: Futuristic, ultra-compact with virtually invisible touchpad, tactile function row, and the acclaimed edge-to-edge keyboard.
• Display: Options up to a Tandem OLED panel (the same tech found in the newest iPad Pros) for exquisite colors, perfect blacks, and impressive response times.
• Memory and Storage: Configurations up to 64GB RAM and 2TB SSD—a rarity on Arm laptops.
• Build Quality: Premium aluminum and glass everywhere; light, durable, and minimalistic.

Risks / Drawbacks​

• Ports: Only USB-C (USB4), no headphone jack—adapters are necessary, which may frustrate some users.
• Price: High-end models can be expensive, though base configs remain competitive.

Reviewers at Windows Central and Tom’s Hardware note the nearly perfect blend of design and performance, though they consistently warn professionals and creators to check if their key applications have Arm-native builds before making the jump.

Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6: Business, Modernized​

No list is complete without a ThinkPad. The Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 is the archetype for business laptops—it’s classic, efficient, and now, with Arm, more mobile than ever.

Strengths​

• Processor Options: Snapdragon X Elite or X Plus, balancing performance and cost.
• Battery Life: 16–20 hours on a single charge, with rapid charging.
• Port Selection: Two USB4, two USB-A, HDMI 2.1, headphone jack, optional nano-SIM (5G)—excellent flexibility for business travel.
• Display: Optional OLED with vibrant colors, HDR, and 120Hz refresh; standard model offers solid but basic IPS.
• Durability: MIL-STD tested, spill-resistant keyboard, and the iconic TrackPoint.

Risks / Drawbacks​

• Aesthetics: Stays true to the ThinkPad design language, which some may find dated compared to the XPS or Surface.
• Upgrades: More limited compared to Intel-based ThinkPads, and OLED models carry a price premium.

Multiple reviewers—including at XDA, PCMag, and The Verge—point out that the T14s Gen 6 balances business-grade robustness with the new freedoms of Arm, though users needing to run Windows VMs or niche proprietary software should investigate compatibility in advance.

HP EliteBook Ultra: Modern Business, No Compromises​

HP’s EliteBook Ultra, replacing the Dragonfly series, is aimed squarely at professionals craving modern design with enterprise-grade performance.

Strengths​

• Snapdragon X Elite Power: Delivers “desktop-class” performance for business apps and multitasking.
• Design: Thin, light, and visually striking, available in an “Atmosphere Blue” finish.
• Webcam: 5MP sensor makes for best-in-class video calls.
• Security: Enterprise-grade security, fingerprint/power button combo, and the latest BIOS protections.

Risks / Drawbacks​

• Ports: Lacks USB-A and HDMI, relying entirely on USB4 and adapters.
• Display: Only available as a 16:10 IPS—bright and clear but no OLED or touch options.
• Upgradeability: RAM and storage not user-replaceable; “what you buy is what you get.”
• No 5G (yet): Unusual for a business device, though a cellular-enabled X Plus model is rumored.

Reviewers, such as Rich Woods at XDA, have lauded the EliteBook Ultra’s fit, finish, and clean appearance, calling it “delightful to use,” even if it’s less flexible in port offerings than legacy models.

Microsoft Surface Pro 11: The Ultimate Arm Tablet​

If you need a tablet that does “real computer” work, the Surface Pro 11 is the obvious choice. The newest generation, now with Snapdragon X silicon and an OLED option, has finally made the Surface as compelling in tablet mode as a laptop.

Strengths​

• Processor: Choice of Snapdragon X Elite or X Plus; up to 64GB RAM and 1TB SSD for power users.
• Display: OLED in higher-end models—deep blacks, rich color, and smooth 120Hz refresh. Lower models feature improved LCDs.
• Battery Life: Easily clears a full day of productivity, even with variable workloads.
• Accessories: Surface Pro Flex Keyboard and Slim Pen 2 elevate productivity, with magnetic attachment and integrated charging.
• Connectivity: Two USB4 ports and optional 5G—uncommon among tablets.

Risks / Drawbacks​

• Windows 11 on Tablets: Still not as touch-savvy as iPadOS or Android, but much improved in 24H2.
• Ports: Limited, as expected with tablets, but still better than many rivals.
• Price: Configurable high, especially for OLED and Elite models.

All major review outlets praise the Surface Pro 11’s screen, battery life, and the freedom brought by full Windows on an ultra-portable form factor—though they consistently note that Windows tablet app support lags behind the competition.

Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x: Power and Style for Mainstream Users​

Lenovo’s Yoga Slim 7x aims for the sweet spot: premium performance and build, a beautiful OLED display by default, and a competitive price.

Strengths​

• Processor: All models use Snapdragon X Elite (X1E-78-100).
• Display: 14.5-inch OLED, 2944x1840 resolution, 90Hz refresh, and HDR with 1000 nits peak brightness.
• Design: Lightweight, eye-catching blue aluminum, thin profile.
• Ports: Three USB4; minimalist but meets most modern needs.

Risks / Drawbacks​

• No Headphone Jack: Requires USB-C or wireless audio.
• Limited Ports: No expansion beyond USB4, so dongles may be a must.
• Max RAM: 32GB—excellent for most, but less than Dell's top-end XPS 13.

XDA and The Verge reviewers highlight the Slim 7x’s slick design, performance, and value—particularly given its display quality at the price point.

Asus Vivobook S 15 (2024): The Classic, Modernized​

For those clinging to the 15.6-inch form factor, the Asus Vivobook S 15 is proof that large Windows on Arm laptops can still be slim, stylish, and powerful.

Strengths​

• Snapdragon X Elite Power: Paired with up to 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD.
• Display: 15.6-inch 2.8K OLED, 120Hz, and 16:9 aspect ratio.
• Port Selection: USB4, USB-A, HDMI, headphone jack, microSD—comprehensive, with no obvious gaps.
• Design: Metal body, lightweight for its class, simple yet premium finish.
• Pricing: Aggressively affordable for a 15-inch OLED laptop.

Risks / Drawbacks​

• Battery Life: Slightly underperforms its competitors, though still far above legacy Intel laptops.
• Display Aspect Ratio: 16:9 is less trendy, but may appeal to traditionalists.

Multiple professional reviews—including personal hands-on from XDA—praise its completeness for mainstream users, with the only true drawbacks being minor quirks rather than fatal flaws.

Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge: Big, Bold, and AI-Ready​

At the top end, the Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge stands out as the flagship Copilot+ PC with the largest, brightest screen and the highest-end Snapdragon X Elite configuration available.

Strengths​

• Processor: X1E-84-100, the most advanced Snapdragon X Elite as of 2025—up to 3.8GHz base and 4.2GHz dual-core boost.
• Display: Giant 16-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 2.8K, 120Hz; sublime for gaming, creative work, and multitasking.
• Portability: Only 12mm thick, weighs just 3.4 pounds—staggeringly light for its size.
• Material: Aluminum build for strength and a premium feel.
• Ports: USB4, USB-A, HDMI, headphone jack, microSD—rare in ultra-slim flagships.

Risks / Drawbacks​

• Max RAM: Limited to 16GB, which some power users may find inadequate.
• Pricing: Competes directly with high-end MacBooks and Dell XPS machines, but offers more AI features.

The consensus among reviewers is that the Galaxy Book 4 Edge delivers “shockingly good” performance and display quality for its size, with the only real downside being the fixed RAM limit. For those needing a large screen, it's essentially the only Arm laptop in this class.

Copilot+ and AI: The Arm Advantage​

A defining theme of the 2025 Arm generation is the embedding of Copilot+ AI features, enabled by powerful NPUs on every major chipset. This includes:

• On-device AI assistants with privacy and instant response.
• Real-time live captions and translations.
• Generative tools for image and text creation.
• Enhanced camera effects and audio processing.

Thanks to Microsoft’s deep integration and Qualcomm's AI hardware, these laptops handle AI locally, not in the cloud, reducing latency and protecting user data—a boon for privacy-conscious users and professionals on the move.

Realities, Risks, and Remaining Limitations​

Despite glowing reviews, some caveats are necessary for would-be buyers:

• Legacy App Support: While Prism translation is fast, not all legacy x86 apps work perfectly. Check specific applications—particularly older software, some peripherals, and bespoke enterprise tools.
• Gaming: Serious gamers should note that Arm’s integrated GPUs substantially lag behind even mid-range discrete GPUs. Most cloud/indie games and lighter esports titles will run well, but for AAA, x86 with dGPU is still best.
• Driver Support: Some specialized peripherals (e.g., USB analyzers, old printers) may lack Arm-native drivers; verify with device manufacturers where possible.
• Price Inflation: Early Arm models commanded a premium, but competition is driving better value; still, highest specs (OLED, 64GB RAM) are costly.

It’s worth flagging reports that some niche software (particularly scientific, CAD, and select professional audio applications) show teething issues or require workaround settings. Microsoft and Qualcomm have pledged continued support, and the app landscape is improving monthly.

Conclusion: The Best Windows on Arm Laptops—A Buyer’s Guide​

2025 has marked a coming-of-age for Windows on Arm laptops. The combination of efficiency, always-on connectivity, local AI, and a maturing app ecosystem means Arm laptops finally offer mainstream—sometimes best-in-class—experiences for a wide range of users.

• Best All-Rounder: Microsoft Surface Laptop 7 balances size, performance, and features with virtually no weaknesses for most users.
• Most Futuristic: Dell XPS 13 (2024, Arm) combines aesthetics, performance, and display technology unmatched by competitors.
• Business King: Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 6 blends battery life, ports, support, and security in a traditional package.
• Modern Business: HP EliteBook Ultra is the go-to for those seeking a refined, enterprise-class device with all the latest security and design trends.
• Tablet Champion: Microsoft Surface Pro 11 finally delivers what Surface fans have dreamed of—true tablet form, full Windows power, and zero compromise on mobility.
• Value Pick: Lenovo Yoga Slim 7x offers leading performance and an OLED display at a price point that undercuts rivals.
• Best for Classic Form Factor: Asus Vivobook S 15 is a traditionalist’s dream, offering all the right ports and a huge OLED panel.
• Big-Screen Marvel: Samsung Galaxy Book 4 Edge is the king of large-format laptops and AI features.

Before buying, consider your must-haves—display size, RAM, port selection, app compatibility, and budget. For most users, Windows on Arm laptops in 2025 no longer require major compromise and, for many scenarios, are officially the machines to beat. If you’ve waited to make your move to Arm, this is the year: the hardware is ready, the software is mature, and the future has never looked brighter for Windows on Arm.

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Source: XDA Best Windows on Arm laptops in 2025