Windows on ARM: A Production-Ready Assessment
Over two decades of serving businesses at Intellect IT, our technical team has seen countless technology innovations come and go. However, the recent advancements in Windows on ARM have captured our attention as a potentially transformative shift in end-user computing. With Windows 10’s end of life later this year, organisations face an important decision not just about upgrading to Windows 11, but about which hardware platform will best serve their needs.
We conducted an extensive hands-on evaluation of Windows on ARM in real production scenarios to evaluate this potential. While our testing was performed on a Dell Latitude 7455 with the Snapdragon X Elite processor, this analysis goes beyond the specific hardware to examine what ARM architecture means for business computing and its readiness for enterprise deployment.
Understanding ARM Architecture
ARM (Advanced RISC Machine) represents a fundamentally different approach to computing compared to the Intel x86 architecture that has dominated business computing for decades. While this distinction may seem technical, it has significant practical implications for businesses considering their hardware strategy.
ARM is a processor architecture based on RISC (Reduced Instruction Set Computing) principles, which emphasizes simplicity and efficiency. Unlike Intel’s x86 architecture which evolved from desktop computing, ARM was designed from the ground up for mobile devices where power efficiency is paramount.
The key differences from Intel/x86 include:
- Power Efficiency: ARM processors are designed to maximize performance per watt, resulting in devices that run cooler and require less energy. This translates directly to longer battery life and thinner designs without compromising performance.
- Instruction Processing: ARM’s simplified instruction set allows for more efficient processing of routine tasks, while Intel’s complex instruction set (CISC) architecture offers advantages for certain specialized workloads.
- Integration: ARM designs often incorporate more components (CPU, GPU, AI accelerators, etc.) on a single chip, which reduces power consumption and improves overall system efficiency.
- Software Compatibility: Historically, Windows and most business applications were designed for x86 processors, requiring translation or emulation to run on ARM. Windows 11 has significantly improved this compatibility layer.
This architectural difference isn’t merely technical – it represents a fundamental reimagining of the business laptop. The shift to ARM enables a new class of devices that combine smartphone-like battery efficiency with desktop-class performance. For mobile professionals, this means true all-day computing without compromises, potentially eliminating the need to carry power adapters for standard workdays.
For IT departments, this transition comes at a strategic moment as the Windows 10 end-of-life deadline approaches, offering an opportunity to evaluate whether ARM-based systems align with their organizational needs and software requirements.
The Compelling Advantages
Windows on ARM devices represent a significant leap forward in mobile computing. Compared to equivalent Intel i7 devices, these machines are approximately half the weight and significantly thinner while matching or exceeding performance expectations. Our testing showed that Snapdragon X Elite performance is comparable to high-end Intel i7 H-series processors in daily business tasks.
Several aspects of the Windows on ARM experience stood out:
- Exceptional Battery Life: The dream of all-day computing in a thin, powerful laptop is now a reality. Under heavy workloads, we consistently achieved 4-5 hours of high-performance operation – a 30-40% improvement over equivalent Intel-based laptops.
- Rapid Start-up and Shutdown: Boot and shutdown times are approximately 30-40% faster than equivalent Intel-based laptops.
- Superior Wake-from-Sleep: The platform delivers a mobile-device-like experience with near-instant wake times. Laptop is responsive within a second of opening the lid – a dramatic improvement over traditional laptops.
- Smoother Multi-Display Operation: When using multiple screens, window management is noticeably more fluid. There’s no lag or jerkiness when moving windows between displays, even compared to top-tier Intel processors.
- Overall Responsiveness: Daily tasks feel snappier and more responsive, contributing to a more efficient workflow.
Current Considerations
The primary consideration with Windows on ARM lies in application compatibility. While Windows 11 (latest build 24H2) includes robust emulation capabilities, specific categories of software face challenges:
Security Applications: We’ve observed varying levels of compatibility with security-focused tools:
- Password managers: While core applications often work, browser plugins may face stability issues
- VPN clients: Compatibility varies by vendor
- Endpoint protection products: Feature parity with x86 versions is still developing
However, we’re seeing rapid progress in this area. For example, one of our key security vendors has announced ARM-native support for their entire security suite, expected to release within 1-2 months. This exemplifies the industry’s swift adaptation to the platform.
Some enterprise management features needed additional configuration compared to their x86 counterparts. These integration points are being actively refined for enterprise deployment.
Looking Ahead
While our experience with Windows on ARM has been predominantly positive, we’re carefully timing our broader deployment recommendations. The tested device featured the Snapdragon X Elite, released in mid-2024, and new models are anticipated in the first half of 2025.
Recommendation
With Windows 10’s end of life approaching, organisations are at a natural decision point for their hardware strategy. For those considering Windows on ARM adoption, we recommend:
- Begin evaluation programs now, particularly for use cases prioritising mobility and battery life
- Monitor your critical application vendors’ ARM support roadmaps
- Consider pilot programs with select user groups to validate compatibility with your specific software stack
- Plan for potential broader deployment following the next hardware refresh cycle in early 2025
Conclusion
Windows on ARM represents a significant evolution in enterprise computing, offering compelling advantages in mobility, battery life, and user experience. The platform has matured significantly, and with major software vendors actively developing ARM-native support, it’s positioned to become a mainstream option for enterprise deployments in 2025. As organisations prepare for Windows 10 end of life, this transition point offers an ideal opportunity to evaluate ARM-based systems as part of their Windows 11 migration strategy.
As Intellect IT evaluates emerging technologies, we’ll monitor developments in this space and share our hands-on experiences. The upcoming hardware refresh cycle and expanding software support could mark a turning point for enterprise adoption of Windows on ARM devices.
