ASUS VivoBook S15 2024 Review: Snapdragon X Elite Performance Tested
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Choosing between Apple's M3 MacBooks and Qualcomm's new Snapdragon X Elite? After extensive testing of ASUS's first Snapdragon-powered VivoBook S15, I can confirm this laptop delivers impressive performance with unique AI capabilities. Having benchmarked its thermal management, display quality, and real-world battery life, I'll break down exactly where it excels—and where Apple still holds advantages.
Snapdragon X Elite Performance Benchmarks
Qualcomm claims the X Elite outperforms Apple's M3, and in Geekbench testing, our review unit achieved a 2,500 single-core and 13,500 multi-core score—surpassing base M3 chips. In 3DMark Wildlife Extreme, it scored 6,315 with remarkable 99% stability thanks to ASUS's IceCool thermal system (dual heat pipes, dual fans). However, gaming reveals limitations: Spider-Man Remastered exhibited graphical glitches and frame drops on medium settings, while Doom Eternal failed to launch. This shows early ARM compatibility challenges despite promising raw power.
Exclusive AI Features and Practical Use
As a Copilot+ PC, the VivoBook delivers unique on-device AI:
- Windows Studio Effects: Background blur, automatic framing, and cartoon-style filters during video calls
- Attention sensing: Display dims when you look away, reactivates upon return
- Super Resolution: AI upscaling for supported games/apps
- ASUS StoryCube: Media organization with AI search capabilities
The dedicated Copilot key provides instant access. While some features feel gimmicky, the background processing efficiency is genuinely useful for multitaskers.
Display, Audio, and Input Experience
The 15.6" 3K 120Hz OLED panel is a standout:
- VESA HDR True Black 600 certified with cinematic 16:10 aspect ratio
- 100% sRGB and near-100% DCI-P3/Adobe RGB coverage in tests
- Zero flickering issues after initial setup hiccups
Harman Kardon-tuned speakers deliver surprisingly robust bass without distortion at max volume. The keyboard features shallow travel but responsive feedback, though the numpad placement causes frequent mispresses. The touchpad’s edge gestures (volume/brightness/skip controls) work intuitively.
Real-World Battery Life and Verdict
ASUS claims 18+ hours, but practical use yielded 7 hours with Chrome, app downloads, and background tasks—far below Apple's efficiency. Intensive tasks like gaming drain faster. Key specs:
- Snapdragon X Elite (up to 45 TOPS NPU)
- 16GB RAM (review unit), 1TB PCIe Gen4 SSD
- Wi-Fi 7, Thunderbolt 4 ports
- 70Wh battery
Final verdict: This laptop excels as a premium productivity machine with best-in-class display and AI features. Gamers should wait for improved ARM optimization. For creatives needing sustained performance, M3 MacBooks still edge ahead in battery life and app compatibility.
Actionable Takeaways
- Enable Super Resolution in MyASUS app for gaming performance boost
- Use edge gestures on touchpad for quick media control
- Verify game compatibility before purchasing via x.com/QualcommGaming
Premium Alternatives
- Apple MacBook Air M3: Better battery (18hrs) but no OLED/touchscreen
- Huawei MateBook X Pro: Lighter (1.26kg) with weaker speakers
- Dell XPS 13: Comparable build without AI features
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