The tech world can feel like a relentless marathon, with hardware and software improvements constantly pushing the limits of what our devices can handle. Recently, it's been Windows 11 24H2 paired with Snapdragon X processors stealing the show on the Windows on ARM platform. But what about those dusty yet battle-tested older ARM laptops? Do they get a slice of the performance pie, or are they relegated to mediocrity? NotebookCheck.net recently tested this question on the Samsung Galaxy Book2 Go, and we’re here to break it all down.
But here’s the thing—Microsoft’s attempts with Windows on ARM haven’t exactly shaken the earth thus far. Blame it on lackluster app compatibility, middling hardware options, or a simple "meh" user experience. However, the introduction of flagship Snapdragon X SoCs alongside Windows 11 24H2 might just be the tide-turner we’ve been waiting for—especially with key enhancements like the revolutionary "Prism" emulator for x86 apps.
Specs Recap:
The Overview:
The performance uplift on the Galaxy Book2 Go under Windows 11 24H2 is tangible, especially for CPU-oriented tasks. The "Prism" emulator improves compatibility and responsiveness for legacy (x86) apps, making the device feel slightly more capable. However, don’t expect miracles—this won’t suddenly breathe cutting-edge capabilities into older hardware.
That said, the installation process can be a minefield of driver glitches and system errors. Unless you’re comfortable wrestling with these, it might be wiser to wait for the infra bugs to settle further—or stick with your current version if it's meeting your expectations.
For users chasing battery life and basic productivity, the free upgrade is icing on the cake. But if you dream of running AAA games or leveraging advanced Windows 11 features, it's time to hunt for a Snapdragon X-powered device.
What are your thoughts on Windows 11 24H2's compatibility with older ARM devices? Have you upgraded your device yet? Let us know in the comments!
Source: Notebookcheck https://www.notebookcheck.net/Tried-and-tested-Does-provide-a-performance-boost-for-older-Windows-on-ARM-laptops.949444.0.html
Windows on ARM: Why Should Anyone Care?
Windows on ARM has long been the underdog of modern computing. It’s Microsoft's attempt to lean into ARM-based chipsets, which are typically better suited for mobile devices due to their energy efficiency and thermal performance. Familiar names like Apple’s M-series processors for MacBooks prove the viability of ARM for productivity and performance, making Microsoft's ambition a natural follow-up.But here’s the thing—Microsoft’s attempts with Windows on ARM haven’t exactly shaken the earth thus far. Blame it on lackluster app compatibility, middling hardware options, or a simple "meh" user experience. However, the introduction of flagship Snapdragon X SoCs alongside Windows 11 24H2 might just be the tide-turner we’ve been waiting for—especially with key enhancements like the revolutionary "Prism" emulator for x86 apps.
The Test Candidate: Samsung Galaxy Book2 Go
The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Go might not scream "cutting edge," but it’s representative of your everyday ARM-powered laptop attempting to stay relevant. With its 14-inch full HD display, Snapdragon 7c+ Gen 3 processor, 4 GB RAM, and 128 GB UFS storage, this fanless notebook was crafted with portability and long battery life in mind—not heavy lifting.Specs Recap:
- Processor: Snapdragon 7c+ Gen 3 (4P+4E CPU cores)
- GPU: Adreno 642L
- Memory: 4 GB LPDDR4 (onboard, non-upgradable)
- Storage: 128 GB UFS 2.2
- Connectivity: Built-in 5G/LTE modem and GPS/Glonass/Beidou/Galileo support
Windows 11 24H2: The Game-Changing Update
Microsoft introduced several marquee features in Windows 11 24H2, but not all are available for lower-tier devices like the Galaxy Book2 Go. Here’s a rundown:The "Prism" Emulator
This updated emulator boosts the performance of x86 applications on ARM devices—a longstanding Achilles' heel for the platform. By optimizing software execution for ARM processors, Prism promises snappier and smoother performance when running legacy Windows apps.Automatic Super Resolution (Auto SR) for Gaming
Auto SR brings AI-based image upscaling to video games, improving visual fidelity. But, alas, this feature demands more powerful hardware than the Snapdragon 7c+ Gen 3, so the Galaxy Book2 Go won't see these perks.Performance Gains: Are They Plausible?
| NotebookCheck ran a battery of classic benchmarking tests to quantify the improvements provided by Windows 11 24H2 on the Galaxy Book2 Go. Here's what the numbers reveal: | Benchmark | Win11 23H2 Score | Win11 24H2 Score | Performance Boost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cinebench R20 (Multi-Core) | 579 points | 635 points | +10% | |
| Cinebench R23 (Multi-Core) | 1555 points | 1698 points | +9% | |
| PCMark 8 (Home Accelerated) | 1739 points | 1828 points | +5% | |
| Geekbench 5.5 Multi-Core | 2557 points | 2639 points | +3% | |
| 7z Benchmark | 2669 MIPS | 2643 MIPS | -1% | |
| HWBOT x265 (4K) | 0.97 fps | 1.12 fps | +15% |
- The updates deliver incremental but noticeable improvements in CPU-heavy workloads like Cinebench R20/R23 and Geekbench 5.5.
- GPU performance sees a modest lift in some cases (e.g., a 1% boost in 3DMark Combined), but for gaming benchmarks like Dota 2 Reborn on ultra settings, performance remains flat.
- File compression (7-Zip) was largely unaffected, showing no tangible gains.
Installation Woes: Not for the Faint-Hearted
Here’s where things get bumpy. The process of upgrading the Galaxy Book2 Go to Windows 11 24H2 is not for the uninitiated.The Journey:
- First Attempt: Initiated via USB, but the system crashed into a Blue Screen of Death (BSOD), rolling back the installation automatically.
- Second Attempt: Manually resolved after persistence, but hiccups didn’t end there.
- Post-Installation Glitches: Device Manager flagged errors: GPU dead, and WiFi and 5G modules weren’t recognized. Without these, basic connectivity was toast.
The Fixes:
- Thankfully, Windows Update brought the GPU back to life and sorted out WiFi and 5G issues after connecting a USB-to-Ethernet adapter—a clunky but workable solution.
What's Missing?
While Windows 11 24H2 offers a fresh coat of paint for older ARM devices, not all its features are accessible. The Galaxy Book2 Go, for instance, is incompatible with Auto SR. Moreover, real-world gaming or GPU-intensive workloads don’t yield significant improvements, even with the updated OS.Final Thoughts: Worth the Upgrade?
Yes… but with an asterisk.The performance uplift on the Galaxy Book2 Go under Windows 11 24H2 is tangible, especially for CPU-oriented tasks. The "Prism" emulator improves compatibility and responsiveness for legacy (x86) apps, making the device feel slightly more capable. However, don’t expect miracles—this won’t suddenly breathe cutting-edge capabilities into older hardware.
That said, the installation process can be a minefield of driver glitches and system errors. Unless you’re comfortable wrestling with these, it might be wiser to wait for the infra bugs to settle further—or stick with your current version if it's meeting your expectations.
For users chasing battery life and basic productivity, the free upgrade is icing on the cake. But if you dream of running AAA games or leveraging advanced Windows 11 features, it's time to hunt for a Snapdragon X-powered device.
What are your thoughts on Windows 11 24H2's compatibility with older ARM devices? Have you upgraded your device yet? Let us know in the comments!
Source: Notebookcheck https://www.notebookcheck.net/Tried-and-tested-Does-provide-a-performance-boost-for-older-Windows-on-ARM-laptops.949444.0.html
