Qualcomm Fires Back at Intel’s Claims of High Snapdragon Laptop Return Rates
The rivalry between Qualcomm and Intel is heating up, with the latest chapter focused on Snapdragon-powered laptops and their performance in the market. Intel’s Co-CEO Michelle Johnston Holthaus recently claimed that ARM-based laptops powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus chipsets were being returned at unusually high rates. Qualcomm wasted no time in responding, dismissing these claims while pointing to solid customer satisfaction ratings.
Qualcomm’s Rebuttal: “4+ Star Ratings Speak for Themselves”
In a statement, a Qualcomm spokesperson highlighted the overwhelmingly positive reception of Snapdragon laptops. "Our devices continue to have greater than 4+ stars across consumer reviews, and our products have received numerous accolades across the industry, including awards from Fast Company, TechRadar, and many consumer publications," the representative said. Qualcomm also clarified that return rates are well within industry norms, though no exact figures were shared.
While Intel’s concerns hinted at possible dissatisfaction among retailers, Qualcomm’s defense appears supported by real-world reviews. A quick scan of Amazon listings shows Snapdragon X Elite and X Plus machines consistently maintaining ratings of 4 stars or higher, indicating broad consumer approval.
The Bigger Picture: Price and Competition
Despite positive reviews, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon-powered laptops have seen modest shipment numbers so far, with only 720,000 units sold since launch. This slow start can be attributed to high initial prices—an expected hurdle for devices featuring cutting-edge ARM-based silicon. Fortunately, discounts in recent months have made these machines more appealing, and Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon remains optimistic about the future.
Looking ahead to 2025, Amon promises more affordable options, with Snapdragon laptops expected to start at just $700. This price shift could put significant pressure on Intel and further close the gap with Apple Silicon-powered MacBooks, both in terms of performance and battery life.
Do you think Snapdragon-powered laptops have what it takes to dominate the market and challenge Intel and Apple? Share your thoughts in the comments!
