The Microsoft SQ1 is a cutting-edge ARM-based SoC (system on a chip) that is designed for use in Windows tablets, specifically the Surface Pro X. This chip is based on the Snapdragon 8cx, but features higher clocked CPU and GPU cores, making it a powerful and efficient option for mobile computing. In this article, we will explore the features and capabilities of the SQ1, as well as its performance and potential limitations.
Features and Capabilities
The SQ1 features 8 cores, with 4 Kryo 495 Gold cores that are based on the ARM Cortex-A76 architecture and are clocked at up to 3 GHz (2.84 GHz for the 8cx) under load. These cores are designed for performance, providing fast and efficient processing power for demanding tasks. The chip also includes 4 Kryo 495 Silver cores, which are small ARM Cortex-A55 cores that are designed for power efficiency and are clocked at 1.9 GHz (unverified) under load.
In addition to its powerful CPU, the SQ1 also features an integrated X24 LTE modem that supports up to 2 Gbps download speeds, making it a great option for users who need fast and reliable mobile connectivity. The chip also includes ac-WiFi and a dual-channel 32-bit 1866 MHz LPDDR4x memory controller, providing fast and efficient memory access.
Performance
According to Qualcomm, the SQ1's performance should be similar to that of an Intel Core i5 8th gen U-series processor (e.g. i5-8250U). However, this is only the case for native ARM64 compiled Windows apps, which are not as common as 32-bit or 64-bit applications. 32-bit applications and games for AMD/Intel run in a rather slow emulation, and 64-bit apps may not start at all.
The SQ1 also includes an integrated Adreno 685 graphics card, which is a higher clocked version of the Adreno 680 in the Snapdragon 8cx. Microsoft claims that the SQ1 has 2 TFlops theoretical performance, compared to the 1.8 TFlops of the Adreno 680 (+11%). This provides a significant boost in graphics performance, making the SQ1 a great option for gaming and other graphics-intensive tasks.
Power Efficiency
One of the key benefits of the SQ1 is its power efficiency. The chip is produced at TSMC in the modern 7 process, which allows for smaller and more efficient transistors. This means that laptops using the SQ1 can be passively cooled (no fan) and should not throttle under constant load. This allows for longer battery life and more stable performance, making the SQ1 a great option for mobile computing.
Despite its high-performance and power efficiency, there are still some limitations that users should be aware of when considering the SQ1. One of the main limitations is its compatibility with existing software and applications. As mentioned earlier, the SQ1's performance is only optimized for native ARM64 compiled Windows apps, which are not as common as 32-bit or 64-bit applications. This means that 32-bit applications and games for AMD/Intel run in a rather slow emulation, and 64-bit apps may not start at all. This can be a significant limitation for users who rely on specific software or games that are not yet available in ARM64 format.
Another limitation is its compatibility with peripherals. The SQ1 is based on the ARM architecture, which is different from the x86 architecture used by most PCs. This means that some peripherals, such as printers or external hard drives, may not be compatible with the SQ1. Additionally, users may experience compatibility issues with certain drivers or software that are not yet optimized for the SQ1's architecture.
In addition, the SQ1's integrated X24 LTE modem supports up to 2 Gbps download speeds, which is great for users who need fast and reliable mobile connectivity. However, it is important to note that these speeds are dependent on the carrier and the location. Users should check with their carrier to ensure that they have 2 Gbps coverage in their area before purchasing a device with the SQ1.
Lastly, the SQ1 is still a new technology and its long-term reliability and durability have not yet been fully tested. It is still unknown how well the chip will hold up over time and how it will handle the demands of heavy usage.
In conclusion, the Microsoft SQ1 is a powerful and efficient ARM-based SoC that is designed for use in Windows tablets. It offers a significant boost in performance and power efficiency compared to traditional x86 processors. However, it does come with some limitations, such as compatibility issues with existing software and peripherals, and the lack of compatibility with 64-bit apps. Additionally, users should check with their carrier to ensure that they have 2 Gbps coverage in their area before purchasing a device with the SQ1. Despite these limitations, the SQ1 is still a promising technology that has the potential to revolutionize the mobile computing industry.
