What you need to know

• Samsung will reportedly make an Exynos processor designed for laptops.
• A laptop with the chip inside is said to be on the way for the second half of 2021.
• The laptop will use a GPU based on AMD's RDNA architecture, according to sources.

Samsung already has some solid Windows 10 on ARM laptops, such as the Galaxy Book S. It appears that the company is doubling down on its efforts and will make its own Exynos processor built for laptops. A laptop with the processor inside is on the way for the second half of this year, according to sources that spoke with the Korea Economic Daily (KED).

Reports of a Samsung-made Exynos chip inside a laptop first emerged in February this year. The details leaked back then line up with the information told to the KED.

"The new Exynos will offer improved functions, including extraordinary computing power and battery efficiency, by utilizing a 5-nanometer processing technology. It's good for both laptops and smartphones," a source told the KED. The new Exynos chip will reportedly work with a GPU jointly developed by AMD.

Samsung unveiled the Exynos 2100 processor ahead of Samsung Unpacked 2021. That chip is also built on a 5nm EUV processor. The KED did not mention a name for Samsung's upcoming Exynos chip for laptops, but it could be the successor to the Exynos 2100.

Generally, Exynos problems run hot. Having an Exynos processor inside a laptop could be a perfect pairing, as laptops usually dissipate heat better than compact smartphones. Pairing an Exynos processor with an AMD GPU would also help overcome the gap seen on the GPU side of things for Samsung's processors.

Samsung's previous Windows 10 on ARM devices, the Galaxy Book S and Galaxy Book2 both run on Qualcomm processors.

The tale of Windows 10 on ARM is an ever-evolving one with small, but significant advancements. The Samsung Galaxy Book S is the second PC to feature Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8cx ARM processor (the other being Microsoft's Surface Pro X).

Following a more traditional clamshell design, this always-connected 4G LTE computer brings back one of Qualcomm's main advantages over rival Intel: battery longevity in a super-slender design.

I've spent the last few weeks with the Galaxy Book S, and Samsung has done an excellent job on hardware execution. But who should buy the Galaxy Book S, and what are the downsides to this $1,000 ultra-slim Ultrabook? Let's find out.

The Galaxy Book S has remained firmly at its $1,000 RRP since launch, and with Amazon Prime Day fast approaching, any discount on this device may tempt those considering a purchase. While Amazon doesn't currently stock this 8cx-powered Ultrabook, keep an eye out for price cuts to come.

Know before you buy

Samsung Galaxy Book S who this is for

Like the Surface Pro X, the Galaxy Book S has a specific demographic in mind: modern, mobile workers who need a premium, always-connected Windows 10 PC with better-than-average battery life.

Samsung built the Galaxy Book S, much like its previous Galaxy Book2, for executives and enterprise users who jump between meetings, ride trains, and who want to be in their work in an instant. That's not to say, students, journalists, writers, and anyone who focuses on office productivity tasks can't benefit either.

While Windows 10 on ARM has limitations (such as not being able to run any specialty 64-bit "classic" Windows applications, heavy lifting CAD programs, or be adept at gaming or video editing), but it still can do many of the core tasks for modern PC users. Running Microsoft Office, Slack, Microsoft Teams, Skype, web browser, email, maps, and collaborative software is all some people need (see the rise of Chromebooks).

But it comes down to instant-on, ubiquitous 4G LTE connectivity, and all-day battery life that makes this laptop stand out from the rest.

So thin, so premium

Samsung Galaxy Book S design and features

The Galaxy Book S is a combination of exquisite, slim, handsome, and a touch of boring. In an age of 2-in-1 convertible laptops, or tablets that have pens that hide in the keyboard, the Galaxy Book S falls into the ho-hum "it's just a laptop" category.

The Galaxy Book S's trick is an old one: it's one of the thinnest and lightest laptops around (rivaled, perhaps, by the Acer Swift 7). That's not to be dismissed. There is an audience for those who want skinny, but also long battery life in a laptop. Up until now, that's been hard to ascertain, especially with an LTE modem.

With an all-metal, anodized aluminum design, tapered edges, and a rounded back, Samsung can undoubtedly design a pleasing laptop. Weighing just 2.1lbs (or 0.96 kg), the Galaxy Book S is exceptionally light. Still, due to that metal chassis, it doesn't feel cheap or hollow compared to similar designs that rely on polycarbonate for materials.

Two colors are available, including Mercury Gray (used for this review) and a pinkish "Earthy Gold."

Two Type-C USB 3.1 Gen 2 (10 Gbps) ports flank the sides of the Galaxy Book S, which is all you get for input/output. Samsung does toss in a Type-C to Type-A converter for those who require the usage of a traditional thumb drive or wired mouse. Unlike the Surface Pro X, there is a 3.5mm headphone jack too.

Underneath the chassis is a simple pullout drawer for the physical SIM (no eSIM, unfortunately) and microSD expansion.

The power button also houses an excellent fingerprint reader. While it doesn't read at the BIOS level (requiring to presses: one to power on, one to log in), it is very accurate and fast with no failures.

Either of those Type-C ports can be used for charging with the minuscule wall charger. A small LED light up on the right-hand side to let you know the device's charging status, which is a nice touch.

Excellent viewing

Samsung Galaxy Book S display and camera

Samsung uses a full HD (1920 x 1080) 13.3-inch TFT 10-point touch display with an aspect of 16x9. Pen and inking are not supported, unfortunately, though it makes little sense on a clamshell anyway.

It's a sharp display with excellent contrast, but there is a visible banding that can be seen in photos (not in real life). Even though it is "only" full HD, this is one of those screens that could pass for a higher resolution as it looks better than it should.

The display can get quite bright, falling just below 380 nits of brightness. It is glossy, but not the worst I've seen.

There are three thin bezels (top and sides) with a larger ~0.75-inch bezel on the bottom, which also has the Samsung logo. Such a design is a consequence of using the 16x9 aspect where a taller 16x10 would have looked better and more modern.

Samsung managed to squeeze in a very tiny 720P web camera on the top bezel too. It's surprisingly good, considering how small it is compared to others, though it leans on reds for colors a bit much. A little blue LED lets you know the camera is active.

There is no physical privacy shutter, nor is Windows Hello facial recognition supported.

Typing is a challenge

Samsung Galaxy Book S keyboard and trackpad

If there is one area that gives me pause on the Galaxy Book S, it is the keyboard. Key travel is exceptionally shallow, hovering near the 1mm mark.

I hesitate to call the keyboard bad because if you spend enough time with it, you do get used to it, but that adjustment curve is longer than any other laptop I have used recently (even the XPS 13 2-in-1). There is an uptick to shallow keyboards so long as you can get used to them: you can type very fast due to less movement.

The keyboard backlight is also tricky. It technically has three stages, and Samsung uses this cool light green color scheme, which contrasts nicely with the grey keys. But to call it dim is an understatement. You'll only see the key illumination in the darkest of scenarios. While it's not clear why Samsung opts for such dim keys, my hunch is it plays into their focus on extended battery life, which is a big part of this laptop's story.

The trackpad is large, smooth, and has a satisfying (albeit shallow) click. Samsung uses Microsoft Precision drivers, and it is overall excellent.

top-tier sounds

Samsung Galaxy Book S surprisingly excellent audio

Usually, when one talks about super-thin Ultrabooks, the speakers get the ax in terms of quality. That's not the case here.

Samsung uses two speakers on the bottom edges (side) that, due to the slight curve, will clear your lap or desk. The audio profile is tweaked by Samsung's go-to subsidiary AKG.

I'll be blunt and just say that Samsung did a remarkable job with the audio. It's loud, clear, and has perfect stereo separation and space. There's even some bass and resonance from the chassis, which is something larger laptops often omit but is found here. It's some of the best aural performance I have heard in the 13-inch class, and Samsung deserves commendation.

For conference calls, two microphones on the top deck also work very well.

OK CPU, excellent battery

Samsung Galaxy Book S benchmarks and battery

Windows 10 on ARM PCs are a bit tricky to describe, and therein lies the problem. A laptop like the Galaxy Book S is perfect for using apps from the Microsoft Store, or using the new Edge browser's ability to install web-apps like Disney+, Kindle Cloud Reader, Twitter, Slack, Microsoft Teams, and more.

Other apps like Microsoft Office, Skype, and other productivity-based programs that are Win32 (x86) based also work quite well. The caveat is 64-bit x86 applications like from Adobe don't run at all on the Galaxy Book S, though I'd argue this is not the kind of laptop for that task.

Read more: How to get the most out of your Windows 10 on ARM device

The Galaxy Book S won't win awards for being the fastest laptop due to the eight-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx processor (2.84GHz), but it's a solid step up from previous Snapdragon PC chips. Microsoft uses the "SQ1", which is just a fancy name for a ramped-up Snapdragon 8cx (3.0GHz), but it does reveal itself as the more powerful of the two PCs.

Geekbench 5

Geekbench 5.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

Geekbench 4

Geekbench 4.0 (CPU) (Higher is better)

PCMark 10

Applications (Higher is better)

SSD

CrystalDiskMark (Higher is better)

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Samsung looked to reduce system costs by using its own UFS 256GB storage solution (KLUEG8UHDB-C2D1). Read speeds are respectable near 1,900 MB/s, but writes are just below 500 MB/s. While this isn't terrible, the Microsoft Surface Pro X uses a PCIe NMe SSD with slightly better read and write results.

RAM is fixed at 8GB LPDDR4x on either the 256GB or 512GB models.

For overall performance, the Galaxy Book S felt solid when sticking to productivity-based tasks. Gaming is a no-go if venturing beyond simple platformers or 2D titles. The 8cx can beat the Intel 8th Gen i7-8500Y, which is a dual-core low-power chip and speaks in favor of Qualcomm (which also costs less).

Example of the apps that I ran on the Galaxy Book S for my normal workload during this review period:

• Microsoft Office (Word, OneNote, Excel)
• Microsoft Edge (ARM64)
• Hulu
• Netflix
• Spotify
• VUDU
• Disney+
• Twitter
• Microsoft Teams
• Slack
• Mail (Outlook.com)
• Flow Mail (Gmail)
• Polarr Photo Editor Pro
• Microsoft News
• GroupMe
• OneDrive
• Skype
• Microsoft To Do
• myTube! (YouTube)
• MobileDiscord PTB (Discord)
• Unigram (Telegram)
• ExpressVPN using manual configuration

Because ARM PCs run so efficiently, there are no fans or even vents for cooling, ergo no noise (and no coil whine, either). Like other ARM-based PCs, this one never also gets warm.

Where the Galaxy Book S shines is battery life. Though it has a slightly larger 42WHr battery compared to the Surface Pro X's 38Whr, the real power savings come from that marginally slower processor and lower resolution display, both of which add hours of longevity to the Galaxy Book S.

Using Microsoft's battery report feature, the Galaxy Book S ranged between 8 and 16 hours, averaging just over 11 hours for usage during testing.

Turning to synthetic tests, specifically PCMark 10, which loops between Microsoft Office Win32 apps, the Galaxy Book S pulls in just over 11 hours. That test was run with the display brightness set to 35 percent, which was more than adequate for working under overhead lights. The Surface Pro X yielded just 8.5 hours on the same test in the same scenario. Both results are with 20 percent battery remaining, which means both laptops could get another hour or two on top of that.

Note: The biggest battery draw on these devices is display brightness. Running them higher and brighter will result in reduced battery life, so your results may vary.

PCMark 10 Battery (Applications)

Finally, turning to the 4G LTE, Samsung is using the Qualcomm X24 modem, which supports CAT20 LTE and up to 2 gigabits download speeds. Samsung sells the Galaxy Book S in partnership with Sprint and Verizon in the United States. Data performance and reception were excellent, with 60 Mbps achieved easily even without full-bar status, though individual results will vary. The modem never failed to connect and was extremely reliable.

Although the Galaxy Book S is sold through US carriers, the laptop is not SIM-locked. Dropping in a SIM from T-Mobile, for instance, worked just fine. Unfortunately, there is no eSIM support.

Filling a specific role

Conclusion: Samsung Galaxy Book S does some firsts, has one major oddity

The Galaxy Book S is one of the nicest looking Ultrabooks around that pushes various extremes. It is very light, super thin, all-metal, and solidly built with premium parts.

Its strengths are easily very long battery life that has particularly good standby time lasting days (or even weeks) and is always connected to the internet through Wi-Fi or LTE. Although the display is just full HD, it's a very evenly lit panel and matches Samsung's exceptional reputation for screen technology. Audio is also way better than expected, making this a fun laptop for watching Netflix in between work sessions.

Compared to the Surface Pro X, it has slightly worse performance, but it's not substantial. You could argue that the extra 2.5+ hours of battery life favoring the Galaxy Book S makes up for that slight performance hit. There's also the shorter 16x9 display (versus the 3x2) of the Galaxy Book S, and no pen support. Price-wise the Galaxy Book S costs less ($1,000) versus Surface Pro X at $1,250 with the keyboard.

My only main gripe is the keyboard. Typing can be frustrating due to the low-key travel, and it takes a while to adjust to the design. The keyboard backlight is also much too dim.

There aren't many laptops in this class that directly compete with the Galaxy Book S. There is a similar 2019 Acer Swift 7, which is nearly the same size and even slightly lighter. Build quality and audio is nowhere near as good, and the performance is worse due to dual-core Y-series Core processor. That Acer laptop is also $700 more expensive, lacks a touchscreen, a 4G LTE modem, and it has around half the battery life of the Galaxy Book S.

Another option is the best-value HP Spectre x360 13t. That laptop also gets very good battery life, has a more powerful 10th Gen i7 processor, double the storage, and it supports inking all for the same $1,000 price. HP, in theory, offers optional 4G LTE, but its availability is hit-and-miss, and that laptop is more than a half-pound heavier.

The question then comes down to how much you value one of the lightest, thinnest laptops on the market with quite remarkable battery life and 4G LTE? For most consumers, they will be better served with something like the HP Spectre x360. But for individual mobile workers who need an always-connected PC that effectively never hibernates and has instant-on that weighs just 2.1lbs, well, there are no other options I can recommend. That makes the Galaxy Book S a tool for a specific user, but a pretty great one for a friendly $1,000 price. That is if Samsung can just fix that keyboard.

What you need to know

• The Intel version of the Galaxy Book S is now available in the United States.
• The laptop is the first PC to feature Intel Hybrid Technology.
• The Galaxy Book S starts at $800 on Samsung's website.

The Intel version of the Samsung Galaxy Book S is now available in the United States. The laptop features a slim design and is built for long battery life. The Intel version is the first PC in the world to use Intel Hybrid Technology, according to Samsung. The Galaxy Book S starts at $800 on Samsung's website.

The Galaxy Book S with an Intel chip is like the Qualcomm-powered Galaxy Book S we reviewed earlier this year in terms of design. It's thin, light, and features an all-metal chassis. It has an excellent display and good audio.

The Intel version of the Galaxy Book S runs on an Intel Core i5-L16G7 processor. It has a base frequency of 1.4GHz and goes up to 3.0Ghz boost. The laptop also features integrated Intel UHD Graphics.

You can read more about Intel's Lakefield processors in our post breaking down the chips. They're in many ways a direct competitor to the Qualcomm 8cx chip that comes in the ARM version of the Galaxy Book S.

Intel Hybrid Technology is designed to deliver better battery life without sacrificing performance. Since it's an Intel chip, it can also run 32-bit and 64-bit applications, all without emulation.

Intel's Lakefield chips have a 56 percent smaller package area and up to a 47 percent smaller board size than previous chips, according to Intel. The Core i5-L16G& that's inside the Galaxy Book S requires standby power as low as 2.5W, which is up to 91 percent lower than the Intel Y-Series i7-8500Y.

While the Intel-powered Galaxy Book S lists up to 17 hours of video playback on its store listing, that's less than the ARM version, which gets up to 23 hours of video playback, according to Samsung. Additionally, the Intel version does not have an LTE option. It does, however, have full compatibility with Windows apps regardless of if they're 32-bit or 64-bit, so you'll have to decide which Galaxy Book S is right for you.

Note that when you go to Samsung's website the price states "From $499.99." That price is if you get a maximum trade-in value from another device. The price of the Galaxy Book S without a trade-in starts at $800.

What you need to know

• Samsung announced the Galaxy Book S with an Intel processor.
• The Galaxy Book S with an ARM processor came out earlier this year.
• Samsung hasn't shared pricing details or a release date for the Intel version of the Galaxy Book S.

Samsung's Galaxy Book S came out earlier this year with an ARM processor and all-day battery life. Now, people who prefer Intel chips have a Galaxy Book S to look forward to. Samsung announced the Galaxy Book S with a new Lakefield hybrid chip inside that will stand alongside the ARM version of the Galaxy Book S (via PCWorld). Samsung didn't reveal any pricing details or a release date for the Intel version of the Galaxy Book S.

We reviewed the ARM version of the Galaxy Book S earlier this year. It earned a solid score of 4/5 from our executive editor Daniel Rubino for its excellent battery life, beautiful design, and outstanding display. The Intel version of the Galaxy Book S should have at least some of those same good qualities. The main difference between the two version is, of course, the processor.

ARM laptops are known for their long battery life and LTE connectivity. While the Intel version of the Galaxy Book S might not have the same battery performance, it does use big/little architecture to help balance battery life and performance. The battery of the Intel version is also slightly larger at 42Wh compared to the ARM version that has a 39.8WH battery.

The Intel version of the Galaxy Book S includes LTE, though Samsung did not specify which LTE (Cat 16) modem it uses. It also supports Wi-Fi 6 for speedy wireless connectivity.

Samsung's Galaxy Book S took a while to hit store shelves, but as one of the first Snapdragon 8cx laptops on the market, it was arguably worth the wait. In his review of the thin-and-light always-connected PC, MrMobile calls it the "best combination of battery life, performance, and portability" that he's seen. Check out the review above for more.

MrMobile's thoughts largely reflect those of our own review, penned by Windows Central executive editor Daniel Rubino. The Samsung Galaxy Book S manages to pack solid battery life, great audio, a bright display, and LTE connectivity into a chassis that is impressively slim. The only downsides are the keyboard, which can feel mushy, and the potential for app compatibility issues on the ARM processor.

For anyone who works with graphics or wants to game, you'll want to look elsewhere. However, if you're looking for a PC designed to be tossed in a bag to get work done on the go, then the Samsung Galaxy Book S is worth a look.

Windows 10 on ARM is precisely what the name states; Windows 10 on ARM. It looks like Windows 10, acts like Windows 10, and can run Windows 10 apps and programs. It has a few notable restrictions, such as its inability to run x64 apps, but in general, it's simply a version of Windows 10 built to run on ARM processors. Devices running Windows 10 on ARM feature long battery life, excellent standby battery, and have the ability to stay connected to the web through cellular data. Depending on your workflow, you might be able to just turn on a Windows 10 on ARM device and run it exactly like your other PCs, but there are a few things you can do to get the best performance and battery life out of the device.

Arm yourself with an ARM-friendly browser

A web browser is the central hub for many people on their PC. Whether it's getting work done, browsing the web, or watching some videos, a person's browser of choice is probably one of their most-used apps. While you can download Google Chrome on to a device running Windows 10 on ARM, you'll get better performance and better battery life by using a browser that's compiled for ARM. The new Microsoft Edge has a version compiled for ARM, and there's an ARM64 version of Mozilla Firefox as well.

These browsers run natively on Windows 10 on ARM devices and don't require any emulation. As a result, they run smoother than Google Chrome and get better battery life.

Get progressive with your apps

Microsoft continues to take advantage of and work with progressive web apps (PWAs). The new Microsoft Edge can "install" progressive web apps to the taskbar or Start Menu. These PWAs are often dramatically lighter on your system and smaller than their full-fat app counterparts.

Some PWAs will run better than other versions of the same service. For example, you can install the web version of Spotify onto your PC instead of the desktop bridge version in the Microsoft Store or the classic program from Spotify's website. The web version is touch-friendly, arguably looks nicer, and provides a great Spotify experience. The only real drawback is the lower bitrate that the web version has.

How to install Disney Plus as a Windows 10 app

There are some excellent sites that are PWAs, including Disney Plus, Hulu, Instagram, Twitter, Google Mapps, and Spotify. As a bonus, the PWA you install on your Windows 10 on ARM device will likely get more updates than many Windows 10 apps. PWAs work across platforms, so Windows users benefit when a developer updates a PWA, even if the company's real target was another platform.

Related: Disney+ Xbox One app now available to download

Utilize UWP

Progressive web apps and a good web browser are great, but you can take your Windows 10 experience even further with UWP apps. These apps are built from the ground up with Windows 10 in mind. They automatically suspend when they're not in use, and will help you get better battery life on your device than older pieces of software.

There's some debate on what makes a UWP app. For the purposes of getting the best Windows 10 on ARM experience, you should look at what some people call native UWP applications. As an example, myTube is a native UWP application that's an excellent YouTube client. Apps using the desktop bridge, like Spotify, don't have all the advantages that native UWP apps do.

Simply set up a SIM

One of the best things about Windows 10 on ARM devices is that they're Always Connected PCs. You can connect your PC to the web through a cellular connection. Windows 10 handles this well, and you can seamlessly switch between Wi-Fi and cellular connections. It's a great way to get work done on the road without having to use public Wi-Fi. You can also stay connected in places like a nice park or anywhere that has a cellular signal but no Wi-Fi.

While constant cellular connectivity is an excellent feature, you might want to stick with a physical SIM card over eSIM. Our news editor Dan Thorp-Lancaster went through an eSIM hell trying to get his Surface Pro X to work with Sprint through an eSIM.

Warming up to ARM

Windows 10 on ARM is still a relatively new platform, but it's already better than it was at launch. The new Microsoft Edge has a version compiled for ARM and allows you to easily install PWAs. Windows 10 works well with cellular connectivity, at least once you initially set up your SIM, so Windows 10 on ARM devices can stay connected all day.

Sometimes PC tweaks and pieces of advance only make a small difference. That's not the case with the suggestions in this guide. If you stick with apps built for ARM, PWAs, and a browser compiled for ARM, you will have a noticeably better experience on your Windows 10 on ARM device. Your battery will last longer, your apps will run quicker, and your device should feel better to use.

What you need to know

• Samsung's Galaxy Book S is now available for preorder in Germany.
• The Galaxy Book S is a thin and light laptop powered by an ARM processor.
• Germany is the first country that the device will ship to outside the United States.
• You can preorder it for €1,099, which is roughly $1,224.

The Samsung Galaxy Books S is now avaialble for preorder in Germany. Germany is the first country outside the U.S. to have the Galaxy Book S available. The Galaxy Book S is powered by the Snapdragon 8cx processor and runs Windows 10 on ARM. Because it runs on a Snapdragon processor, it's thin, light, and should get good battery life. You can preorder the device through Samsung's website for €1,099, which is roughly $1,224.

Samsung first announced the Galaxy Book S last year and said that it would come out in September. The device was delayed, but we recently got one to try out.

Here's a full look at the specs for the Galaxy Book S:

When you preorder the device, it should ship by March 17, 2020. When you preorder the device, it comes with a pouch that Samsung says is worth €80.

Samsung has been hyping the Galaxy Book S – an ultra-slim, ultra-portable, always-connected clamshell laptop – for months, but it is now finally on sale. Samsung sent my review unit for testing last night, and I've been playing around with it ever since.

Featuring the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx processor (2.84GHz), 8GB of RAM, and a 256GB Samsung SSD (200GB available) this traditional laptop promises 4G LTE, longer battery life than the Surface Pro X, and the ability to work anywhere at any time.

Samsung is going the carrier-route in the United States partnering directly with Verizon and Sprint to sell the Book S. That means you can get a subsidized deal (and those carriers help promote it). It also means that this is, in theory, carrier-locked (and there is no eSIM support).

That said, I just dropped a T-Mobile SIM in, and while I got a warning message – surprise, surprise – T-Mobile LTE is up and running with no problems.

Samsung sees the Book S as an ideal choice for those who need to work on-the-go with reliable 4G LTE, instant-on, and exceptionally long battery life (around 20-30% longer than a comparable Intel Core i5 10th Gen processor).

The hardware is impressive, and the battery endurance looks to be outstanding. As I start my evaluation process, feel free to shout out in comments with any questions you want to be answered in the review (and I'll likely answer a few directly here too).

Dell XPS 13 vs. Samsung Galaxy Book S tech specs

Design and features

The refreshed XPS 13 (9300) is mostly the same as the previous generation, with the main changes coming to the display, keyboard, and audio. FHD non-touch models weigh in at 2.65 pounds (1.2kg) and measure just 0.58 inches (14.8mm) thin, making it rather portable… just not as portable as the Galaxy Book S. The Book S slims down to just 0.24 inches (6.2mm) at its thinnest point and weighs in at 2.65 pounds.

When combined with 4G LTE connectivity — a Nano SIM slot is coupled with the microSD card reader — the Book S becomes a formidable traveling partner. Along with LTE connectivity, the Galaxy Book S has Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0. It's great for staying in touch when out of Wi-Fi range, but speeds won't match Wi-Fi 6, which is offered with the XPS 13.

Both laptops employ a standard notebook design, meaning they don't come apart or rotate around for convertible modes. You should have no issues with "lapability," and a lack of office desk shouldn't cut into your productivity. The keyboard on the XPS 13 has been redesigned with larger keycaps, and it now reaches to the edges of the chassis. Key travel is ample, and along with the larger Precision touchpad, you shouldn't have issues typing and pointing without accessories. On the other hand, the slim build of the Book S makes for rather short key travel, but it's something you can get used to. We always recommend trying out a keyboard in person before buying a laptop, since it usually comes down to personal preference.

Ports are limited on both laptops compared to larger Ultrabooks. The XPS 13 sports two Thunderbolt 3, 3.5mm audio, and a microSD card reader. The powerful Thunderbolt 3 ports allow you to do more compared to the dual USB-C ports on the Galaxy Book S, like connecting a powerful docking station to turn your laptop into a workstation centerpiece. Along with two USB-C, the Book S has 3.5mm audio and a microSD card reader. You can use the card reader on either laptop to expand storage using a compatible microSD card.

For an extra layer of security, both laptops offer a fingerprint reader for Windows Hello. Both are built into the power button for a clean look. The XPS 13 takes things a step further, offering up an IR camera for facial recognition through Windows Hello. Despite that thin display bezel, the cameras are still located above the screen. Both the Book S and XPS 13 also have front-facing 720p cameras for video conferencing and stills. As for audio, the XPS 13 (9300) is now using the same type of speakers as the XPS 13 2-in-1, which is a very good thing. We haven't tested audio side-by-side, but keep in mind the Galaxy Book S includes AKG speakers and Dolby Atmos.

Display

Samsung has played the display game rather safely with a lone 13.3-inch FHD touch option. It has a standard 16:9 aspect ratio and thin bezel. Samsung knows how to make great displays, and this one is no different with accurate color and contrast. You shouldn't mind sitting down in front of it day in and day out, but if you want a slightly boxier screen or 4K, you'll have to go with the XPS 13.

Dell redesigned the display to eliminate the bottom chin almost entirely, allowing for a 16:10 aspect ratio. Now all four sides of the display have almost no bezel, which adds up to an absolutely beautiful look. Because of the aspect ratio, the FHD+ resolution is set at 1920x1200, while the 4K UHD+ resolution is at 3840x2800. FHD+ comes in touch or non-touch (for better battery life), whereas the UHD+ model comes in touch. You're going to get about 500 nits brightness no matter what, as well as accurate color and contrast.

Price and performance

The XPS 13 can handle a considerable workload without slowing down, equipped with a 10th Gen Intel Core i3, i5, or i7 processor (CPU). Especially with the higher-end Core i7 and its Intel Iris Plus integrated graphics, there should be no problems with productivity work, light gaming, and even some editing. You can currently add up to 16GB of RAM and a 512GB solid-state drive (SSD) to the XPS 13 to complement the CPU. RAM is soldered, though the SSD is user upgradable after purchase. Dell's laptop is going to be the right decision if you need the most performance, but the Galaxy Book S makes a case for itself if all you're going to focus on is relatively lightweight productivity work.

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx in the Book S manages performance somewhere around the 8th Gen Intel Core i5 level, which isn't anything to scoff at. It'll handle word processing, web browsing, and video streaming with ease, though due to its ARM approach it will have to emulate some x86 32-bit apps. This does cause a slight decrease in performance compared to native ARM64 apps, but everything should be stable. Unfortunately, the Book S seems to currently only be available in one configuration with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD.

Both the XPS 13 and Galaxy Book S offer instant-on capabilities and long battery life that should easily get you through a workday. We haven't been able to directly test the batteries, but Samsung claims up to 25 hours of video playback time from the 42Wh battery. That number no doubt dips when actually going about productivity work (especially when emulating x86 32-bit apps). Similarly, Dell claims the XPS 13 can achieve up to 19 hours of life, though again that number is bound to dip in real-world usage.

An introductory XPS 13 model with Core i3 CPU, 4GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, and FHD+ non-touch display costs about $1,000, which is the same price for the Galaxy Book S with Snapdragon 8cx, 8GB of RAM, 256GB SSD, and FHD touch display. If you're on a limited budget and you have to choose one of these models, the Galaxy Book S is no doubt quite attractive, especially with the touch display and LTE connectivity.

If you have more to spend, investing in an XPS 13 with Core i5 or Core i7 CPU, touch display (especially 4K), and larger SSD should make more sense unless you absolutely need the LTE. A high-end XPS 13 model with Core i7 CPU, 16GB of RAM, 512GB SSD, and 4K touch display costs about $1,900.

Dell's XPS 13 (9300) is a better buy for most people

With 10th Gen Intel Core CPUs, up to a beautiful 4K touch display, Thunderbolt 3 ports, comfy keyboard and touchpad, and excellent battery life, the XPS 13 is an ideal laptop for a lot of people. It's not as mobile due to a lack of LTE connectivity, but it's an otherwise complete package.

Samsung's Galaxy Book S is better for those on the move

The Galaxy Book S won't match the full performance potential of the XPS 13, but the Snapdragon 8cx CPU puts up a good fight against a productivity workload. Its LTE capabilities and solid battery life make it a great option if you're often traveling or just want the most mobile laptop possible.

Surface Laptop 3 vs. Galaxy Book S tech specs

Features and design

Microsoft's Surface Laptop 3 is available in both 13.5- and 15-inch sizes. Despite the size difference, most features remain the same between the two. The 13.5-inch model weighs in at about 2.79 pounds (1.27kg), while the 15-inch model weighs about 3.40 pounds (1.54kg). Both laptops have the same 0.57-inch (14.5mm) thin chassis. These are certainly sleek aluminum laptops with a high build quality, and you shouldn't have any issues using it in a cafe or a boardroom.

The Galaxy Book S is much thinner and lighter than both Laptop 3 models, weighing in at 2.12 pounds (0.96kg) and measuring just 0.24 inches (6.2mm) at its thinnest point. If you want the most portable option, this is it, especially when you factor in 4G LTE connectivity that will keep you connected to the internet even when out of Wi-Fi range. The Surface Laptop 3 does not have optional LTE, but it does offer Wi-Fi 6 connectivity for blazing wireless speeds. The Galaxy Book S is stuck with Wi-Fi 5.

Ports are somewhat limited on these laptops compared to other Ultrabooks. The Galaxy Book S includes two USB-C, a microSD card reader, and 3.5mm audio. Note that it uses one of the USB-C ports to charge, so you will be reduced to just one when the battery is depleted. Both sizes of the Laptop 3 include one USB-C, USB-A, 3.5mm audio, and Surface Connect, which can be used to connect something like the Surface Dock. The Laptop 3 uses Surface Connect to charge, so you won't lose the USB-C port when your battery is low.

The Laptop 3 and Galaxy Book S use a front-facing 720p webcam for video conferencing and stills, and it's located above the display for a proper capture angle. For some extra security, the Laptop 3 models include an IR camera for Windows Hello. While the Galaxy Book S has no IR, its power button doubles as a fingerprint reader for Windows Hello. You get that extra layer of security, no matter which device you choose.

In terms of keyboard, the thin design of the Galaxy Book S doesn't allow for a lot of key travel. This will no doubt irk those who type all day. In contrast, both Laptop 3 models have outstanding keyboards with plenty of travel and a smooth click. You should always try to test a keyboard before making a final decision, but for most people who write all day, the Laptop 3 will be preferable. In terms of pointing, all devices have a sizeable Precision touchpad that allows for all Windows 10 gestures.

Bottom line? You're going to get a well-built, premium laptop no matter which you ultimately choose. The Laptop 3 models are going to be a bit bulkier, but performance hardware and display take up space. The Galaxy Book S is the right choice for anyone who wants to remain mobile, but performance won't match up, and the display isn't nearly as impressive.

Display

Surface devices always wow us when it comes to display. The 13.5-inch Laptop 3 has a 2256x1504 resolution to go along with the boxy 3:2 aspect ratio that offers more screen real estate. The 15-inch Laptop 3 sits at 2496x1664, a higher resolution due to the larger size. These are touch displays with full inking capabilities when you add a Surface Pen into the mix. Color and contrast are outstanding, and you shouldn't mind looking at these displays daily.

On the other hand, Samsung isn't a slouch when it comes to display technology. The Galaxy Book S screen looks excellent with precise color and contrast, but it's set at a lower 1920x1080 resolution with a 16:9 aspect ratio. It is touch-enabled, but Samsung claims that an active pen will not work with the display.

Performance and price

The Galaxy Book S is meant to be a portable productivity machine, and the ARM-based performance is set to match. It is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx processor (CPU); compared to Intel and AMD CPUs, there are some limitations. Running x86 32-bit apps requires some emulation, which causes a slight hit to performance compared to running native ARM64 apps. There's enough power to handle everyday productivity work like web browsing, word processing, and video streaming, but it's not going to match up to a 10th Gen Intel Core i5 or Core i7.

The 13.5-inch Surface Laptop 3 is only available with 10th Gen Intel Core i5 or i7 CPUs, whereas the 15-inch model is available with Intel or AMD Ryzen hardware. You'll get the best performance from Intel chips and their Iris Plus Graphics; if you want the most power, this should be your first choice. The Galaxy Book S and the Intel versions of the Laptop 3 wake almost instantly from sleep, a premium feature that's not available in AMD versions of the Laptop 3.

Intel Core i7 13.5-inch Surface Laptop 3 models get about eight hours of battery life from a charge depending on usage, while the 15-inch AMD Ryzen 5 model managed closer to 10 hours from a charge. We haven't yet been able to test battery life in the Galaxy Book S, but Samsung is claiming about 25 hours of video playback time. Real numbers will no doubt vary significantly, especially when real productivity work (and any app-emulation) are taken into account. Either way, these laptops should have enough battery life to make it through most of a workday, and they all charge quickly.

There's currently only one Galaxy Book S configuration available, priced at about $1,000. Alongside the Snapdragon 8cx CPU, it has 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. The Laptop 3 makes it far easier to get exactly what you need. AMD Ryzen hardware is available in the 15-inch model, while Intel hardware is available in both 13.5- and 15-inch (Business) versions. Up to 32GB of RAM can be included in the larger Laptop 3, and up to a 1TB SSD is available for plenty of storage.

Baseline 13.5-inch models with Intel Core i5 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 128GB SSD start at about $800, while the same model with 256GB SSD costs about $1,000. Prices do climb relatively quickly once you get into the 15-inch models. An AMD Ryzen 5 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB SSD costs about $1,397, while a higher-end Ryzen 7 model with 16GB of RAM and 512GB SSD costs about $1,797.

The Surface Laptop 3 is better for most people

Thanks to plenty of configuration options, your choice of Intel or AMD hardware, and a gorgeous touch display with high resolution and inking capabilities, the Surface Laptop 3 should appeal to more people. It's going to deliver better performance, solid battery life, and a far more comfortable keyboard. As long as you don't want a laptop as thin and light as possible with LTE capabilities, the Surface Laptop 3 should be your first choice.

Samsung's Galaxy Book S offers the most mobility

Its display isn't as impressive, and performance won't compare to the Surface Laptop 3, but the Galaxy Book S delivers a lightweight, slim chassis, excellent battery life, and 4G LTE connectivity. If you find you're often out of the office and always need to stay connected, the Galaxy Book S will make an excellent machine for general productivity use.

Whereas the Surface Pro 7 is a bonafide 2-in-1 with a rear stand and attachable keyboard, the Galaxy Book S sticks with a more traditional clamshell notebook design. Internal hardware and features are also varied enough that making a final decision can be tough. That's why we've broken things down here to help you pick what's right.

Surface Pro 7 vs. Galaxy Book S tech specs

Design and features

The first major decision you'll be faced with when choosing one of these PCs is whether or not you want a 2-in-1 or a more traditional clamshell notebook. The Surface Pro 7 is primarily a tablet with a rear stand that props it up on a flat surface. With an optional Type Cover attached, you get a full laptop experience with keyboard and Precision touchpad.

If you're less interested in a modular device, the Galaxy Book S should be a better fit. It can't be used as a tablet, but you won't have to worry about paying extra for a keyboard and touchpad. If you expect to work a lot of hours from your lap, the Book S should fare a lot better, though key travel is limited due to the thin chassis. The Pro 7's kickstand and folding keyboard design don't offer as much stability, but you might find that the keys are more comfortable. An in-person test is always recommended since keyboards often come down to personal preference. Both devices include sizeable Precision touchpads for all Windows 10 gestures.

Both devices are built to a high standard and sized to remain mobile. With a Type Cover attached the Pro 7 weighs about as much as the Galaxy Book S, and both are quite thin. However, only the Galaxy Book S offers 4G LTE connectivity, allowing you to stay connected even when outside of Wi-Fi range. That's a big feature in terms of mobility. The Galaxy Book S otherwise offers Wi-Fi 5, while the Pro 7 has the newer Wi-Fi 6 for incredibly fast speeds.

Ports are rather limited on both of these PCs, at least compared to larger Ultrabooks. The Pro 7 has a single USB-C, USB-A, microSD card reader, 3.5mm audio, and Surface Connect for charging or connecting a Surface Dock. The Book S includes two USB-C, a microSD card reader, and 3.5mm audio. Note that the Book S uses USB-C to charge, so you will be reduced to one port when the battery is depleted. The microSD card reader on both devices can be used to expand internal storage.

The Pro 7's cameras easily beat out the single camera in the Book S. With the Surface tablet, you get front-facing 5MP and rear-facing 8MP cameras, each with 1080p support. There's also an IR camera for facial recognition through Windows Hello. The Book S has a single 720p front-facing webcam with no IR support. However, a fingerprint reader is built into the power button for some extra security through Windows Hello.

Ultimately, both of these laptops are built to a premium standard, and the price is a reflection. You can concern yourself less with wondering which device is built better and can instead focus on form factor (2-in-1 or clamshell notebook) and which features matter the most.

Display and inking

Samsung is known to make excellent displays, and as long as you're happy with a 13.3-inch FHD screen and 16:9 aspect ratio, the Book S shouldn't be an issue. It does include touch functionality, though Samsung claims there is no active pen support. That's less of an issue since the display doesn't fold all the way back to sit flat. In any case, precise color and contrast add up to a display you won't mind looking at every day.

The Surface Pro 7 has a smaller 12.3-inch touch display, but it has a lot more to offer. Resolution is much higher at 2736x1824, and it has a boxier 3:2 aspect ratio that's ideal for a tablet. Color is accurate and contrast is spot on; combined with a Surface Pen it becomes a powerful creative tool. If you have artistic ambition, the Pro 7 will make a much better choice.

Performance and price

Unlike the ARM-based Surface Pro X, the Pro 7 sticks with 10th Gen Intel Core CPUs for killer performance. Basic models start with a Core i3 chip, though there are Core i5 and Core i7 units available as you scale up. You're also going to find configurations with 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB of RAM, as well as 128GB, 256GB, 512GB, or 1TB of solid-state drive (SSD) storage. Microsoft makes it much easier to get exactly what you need, and prices start much lower than the Book S. For a Core i3 model with 4GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD, you're looking at spending about $580. Even tacking on the cost of a Type Cover, you're still getting it cheaper than the Book S priced at about $1,000.

Samsung has currently available just one Book S configuration. It's powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx CPU, which compares roughly to an 8th Gen Intel Core i5. It also includes 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD. This is an ARM-powered device, so x86 32-bit apps require emulation to run. This causes a slight performance hit compared to native ARM64 apps, but things should be stable. One major selling point of ARM-based PCs is the lengthy battery life. We haven't been able to test battery life in the Book S, but Samsung claims 25 hours of video playback. Actual numbers are no doubt lower, especially when actually using the PC for work.

The Pro 7 with Core i5 CPU hit about eight hours from a charge when performing regular productivity work. That's enough to get through a workday without plugging in, and performance is superior. The integrated Iris Plus Graphics in the Core i5 and Core i7 models is rather impressive and will fare better in terms of gaming and design work.

Bottom line? If you place performance higher than mobility and battery life, the Pro 7 should be your first choice. Considering a model with Core i5 CPU, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB SSD costs about $899, you can still add in a Type Cover and pay less than the Galaxy Book S. However, if you need LTE connectivity and want to see what ARM is all about, the Galaxy Book S is still no doubt tempting at $1,000.

The Surface Pro 7 offers better performance, lower cost

The Surface Pro 7 isn't as new or as impressively sleek as the Galaxy Book S, but it delivers stronger performance, a higher-res display with inking, and extra versatility thanks to the 2-in-1 form. There are plenty of models available at a lower cost than the Book S, even when the additional cost of a Type Cover and Surface Pen are included. Unless you absolutely need LTE connectivity or the clamshell design, the Pro 7 is going to be a better choice for most people.

Samsung's Galaxy Book S is best for those on the move

The Galaxy Book S is undeniably a fine piece of hardware, but it's not for everyone. ARM has some limitations and will no doubt frustrate some people, and it's not going to deliver the same level of performance available from the Pro 7. However, its LTE capabilities and excellent battery life count for a lot, especially anyone who isn't grounded in an office.

These two PCs have similar hardware inside, but they differ in form factor, display, and some features. Let's break down the specs you can find on each laptop before moving on to a closer look to help you decide which is a better buy.

Surface Pro X vs. Galaxy Book S tech specs

Design and features

The Surface Pro X is a bit of a deviation from the standard Pro lineup, but it's still a 2-in-1 device with an attachable keyboard and rear stand to prop it up on flat surfaces. You can treat the Pro X like a tablet — it weighs just 1.7 pounds (0.78kg) — for casual use, then snap the keyboard and touchpad onto the bottom and handle productivity work. You do have to pay extra for the keyboard, though, which adds about $105 to the total price.

The Galaxy Book S sticks with a more traditional clamshell notebook design. If you're not big on tablets and don't want to deal with a stand and attachable accessories, it's likely going to be a better fit. It weighs in at 2.12 pounds (0.96kg), which is actually less heavy than the Pro X with the keyboard attached. At just 0.24 inches (6.2mm) at its thinnest point, the Galaxy Book S can easily be the laptop you choose as a travel partner. Both devices are built to a high standard, and the price reflects the build quality. You're getting a premium PC capable of fitting in anywhere no matter which you choose.

There's not a lot of room for ports on either device, though the Book S offers slightly better connectivity. Alongside dual USB-C ports (like the Pro X), it offers a 3.5mm audio jack and a microSD card reader capable of expanding storage up to 1TB. However, keep in mind that one USB-C port on the Book S is used for charging, whereas the Pro X includes Surface Connect that keeps both USB-C ports open for use even when the battery is depleted. The Pro X does not have a card reader for expandable storage, but the internal solid-state drive (SSD) can be accessed for DIY upgrades.

Both devices have a webcam above the display — the Book S sits at 720p while the Pro X has full 1080p — but only the Surface device includes a rear-facing 1080p camera as well. The Pro X also offers IR facial recognition for Windows Hello, whereas the Book S sticks with a fingerprint reader built into the power button. Camera quality will be far better with the Pro X, but as far as biometrics go, you should feel secure with either device.

The typing experience on the Pro X is quite similar to that of the standard Pro lineup of PCs. There's enough travel to remain comfortable, and a Precision touchpad allows for accurate pointing. You get a three-stage backlight and a special slot that holds the Surface Slim Pen. The biggest issue you'll experience is "lapability." The Pro X's kickstand is sturdy on a flat desk, but in your lap, it's not nearly as comfortable or stable as a notebook design. If you foresee a lot of hours with a PC directly on your lap, the Book S should prove to be a lot less frustrating.

However, the slim design of the Book S doesn't exactly allow for a lot of key travel. You'll no doubt want to (if possible) try both keyboards in person before making a final decision. In any case, you do get a rather large Precision touchpad well-suited for productivity work with the Book S.

Both laptops include LTE connectivity by default, making either one a great traveling companion. The Book S has a Nano-SIM slot alongside the microSD card reader but does not offer eSIM. The Pro X has a Nano-SIM slot as well, but it also offers support for eSIM. Users can switch dynamically between the two, making the Pro X a more suitable device for frequent international travelers. Both devices also sport Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity.

Display and inking

As a straight-up comparison of display specs, the Surface Pro X easily wins. It's sized at 13 inches, it's touch-enabled, and it has a 2880x1920 resolution with 3:2 aspect ratio. That's a much boxier format than the Book S, and it's much better suited to the tablet form factor. Combined with an active pen — either the Surface Slim Pen or standard Surface Pen — you're getting a powerful creativity tool with excellent color and up to 450 nits brightness. Note that you can bundle a Pro X with keyboard and pen for about $1,295 or buy the keyboard and pen separately for about $208.

The Galaxy Book S sticks with a more traditional 16:9 aspect ratio with 1920x1080 resolution. It's sized at 13.3 inches and includes touch, but according to Samsung does not support an active pen for inking. That's not as big of a deal considering the display on the Book S doesn't fold back to sit flat on a table, but if you do want inking support, you'll have to go with the Pro X. In any case, the Samsung display brings vivid color and excellent contrast, though the lower resolution is noticeable.

Performance and price

The Pro X and Book S have similar hardware inside that emphasizes battery life and mobility rather than high-end performance. The Pro X uses a suped-up Snapdragon 8cx CPU with a clock speed up to 3.0GHz, whereas the Book S utilizes a standard Snapdragon 8cx with a clock speed up to 2.84GHz. Both have integrated graphics, though the Pro X will slightly edge out the Book S thanks to Microsoft's customization to the Adreno 685. Both devices are fanless and offer near-instant wake speeds.

These are two ARM-powered devices, so running 32-bit x86 apps requires a bit of emulation. There's going to be a slight performance hit compared to running native ARM64 apps, but for the most part, everything should be stable. Performance hovers somewhere around an 8th Gen Intel Core i5 CPU, which is easily capable of handling daily productivity work. The Book S is currently only available with 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, whereas there are numerous Pro X configurations. Baseline models have 8GB of RAM and a 128GB SSD, while the top model has 16GB of RAM and a 512GB SSD.

Battery life is a hot topic. While Microsoft claims 13 hours of life from the 38.2Wh battery, you can expect closer to 10 hours when using ARM64 and UWP apps. If you're emulating 32-bit x86 apps, battery life falls to about seven hours. We haven't been able to personally test battery life in the Book S yet, but its larger 42Wh battery and lower-res display will no doubt positively affect longevity. Samsung claims up to 25 hours of video playback time, though real performance numbers will undoubtedly be different.

Baseline Pro X models with 8GB of RAM and 128GB SSD start at about $990, and that's not including a keyboard and pen. A Pro X model to match the Galaxy Book S, with 8GB of RAM and 256GB SSD, costs about $1,295, and that's with they keyboard and pen included. Still, that's $300 more than the Book S, which goes for about $1,000.

The Surface Pro X is an outstanding 2-in-1 device

For those always on the move, the Surface Pro X is an ideal 2-in-1 laptop. It's certainly not for everyone, but if you need something portable with long-lasting battery life, instant-on, inking, and LTE connectivity, it should be near the top of your list. The display easily beats out that in the Book S, and its design makes it far more flexible. You can use it as a tablet, then connect the keyboard for a full laptop experience.

Samsung's Galaxy Book S is an ideal notebook for those on the move

The Galaxy Book S sticks with a clamshell design, yet is incredibly thin and light for easy transportation. It has similar performance hardware (though not as many configuration options), impressive battery life, LTE connectivity, and better port selection. Still, its touch display won't quite match up to that in the Pro X. It is, however, less expensive than a full Pro X setup with keyboard and touchpad.