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Verdict: In HotHardware’s July 2024 testing, the 16-inch Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge delivered exceptional speed in native ARM64 applications, a large AMOLED display, quiet operation and 15 hours of calibrated video playback. Its limitations were equally clear: x86 software depended on emulation, sustained performance could trail the short benchmark impression, and gaming compatibility was inconsistent.
What was tested
The reviewed machine was the 16-inch Galaxy Book4 Edge using Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite X1E-84-100. The observations below come from Zak Killian’s HotHardware review, published July 25, 2024. Drivers, Windows builds, application versions and game compatibility may have changed since that test, so these results should be treated as a period-specific assessment rather than a guarantee for every current configuration.
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The laptop’s appeal is straightforward: a large, vibrant AMOLED screen and long battery life in a relatively quiet system. The buying question is whether your important applications run natively on Windows on Arm or through x86 emulation.
Samsung’s software and settings
Samsung Settings is not optional for every control
Samsung bundles its own utilities using the company’s One UI design language. HotHardware found that Samsung Settings was required for certain battery-protection and power-profile controls. The reviewer changed the profile in Samsung’s app and observed differences in performance and battery behavior, even though Windows did not display the profile as changed.
#1 Best Overall
- AI-POWERED PRODUCTIVITY & MOBILITY - Experience next-generation computing with the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge, featuring a Qualcomm Hexagon NPU with up to 45 TOPS of AI performance to accelerate on-device AI experiences and unlock powerful Copilot+ PC capabilities. Designed to simplify everyday tasks and enhance productivity, it combines intelligent performance with up to 28 hours of battery life in a slim, lightweight design, making it an ideal companion for work, study, travel, and everyday use.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE - Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor and integrated Qualcomm Adreno graphics, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge handles everyday productivity, streaming, and entertainment with ease. Equipped with 16GB LPDDR5X 8448MHz RAM and 512GB UFS storage, it keeps apps and browser tabs running smoothly while providing ample space for files, apps, and everyday essentials.
- EXCELLENT VISUAL - Enjoy stunning visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS Anti-glare LED display with 300-nit brightness. USB4 and HDMI support two external 4K monitors @60Hz (without docking station). The enhanced 1080p FHD camera delivers clear, detailed video, while Windows Studio Effects, including background blur and automatic framing, help you look professional during video calls and virtual meetings.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY - Equipped with two USB-C (USB4) ports, USB-A, HDMI, and a 3.5mm audio combo jack for seamless compatibility with monitors, docks, and essential peripherals. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 deliver fast, reliable wireless connectivity to keep you productive wherever you work. A full-size keyboard with a dedicated numeric keypad boosts productivity.
- OPERATING SYSTEM - Windows 11 Home provides built-in Copilot AI to help simplify everyday tasks, organize information, and enhance productivity. Built-in security features help protect your device and data, while an intuitive, user-friendly experience makes it easy to work, study, create, and stay connected throughout the day.
This creates a practical setup requirement: if a power or charging option appears to be missing in Windows, check Samsung Settings rather than assuming the laptop lacks the feature.
Color modes
Windows handled display color-profile selection, while Samsung’s utility controlled Auto mode. The reviewer preferred Natural mode for general use because Vivid looked visibly oversaturated. That is a subjective recommendation, not a measurement of panel accuracy.
Native and emulated software
Microsoft applications tested by HotHardware, including Office and Edge, were ARM64 native. Samsung’s included applications were described as 32-bit x86 programs at the time of testing. x86 applications run through Windows’ Prism emulation layer, which can reduce speed or increase power use compared with native ARM64 software. Do not assume that a 2024 software package remains in the same architecture on a current installation.
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Native ARM64 performance is the strong point
In native ARM64 workloads, the Snapdragon X Elite was extremely quick for a thin laptop. HotHardware’s reviewer described performance in browsers, Office, Photoshop and 7-Zip as “explosive given its form factor and power envelope.” Its productivity testing with native Microsoft applications was correspondingly strong.
Rank #2
- AI-POWERED PRODUCTIVITY & MOBILITY - Experience next-generation computing with the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge, featuring a Qualcomm Hexagon NPU with up to 45 TOPS of AI performance to accelerate on-device AI experiences and unlock powerful Copilot+ PC capabilities. Designed to simplify everyday tasks and enhance productivity, it combines intelligent performance with up to 28 hours of battery life in a slim, lightweight design, making it an ideal companion for work, study, travel, and everyday use.
- POWERFUL PERFORMANCE - Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon X processor and integrated Qualcomm Adreno graphics, the Samsung Galaxy Book4 Edge handles everyday productivity, streaming, and entertainment with ease. Equipped with 16GB LPDDR5X 8448MHz RAM and 512GB UFS storage, it keeps apps and browser tabs running smoothly while providing ample space for files, apps, and everyday essentials.
- EXCELLENT VISUAL - Enjoy stunning visuals on the 15.6" FHD (1920 x 1080) IPS Anti-glare LED display with 300-nit brightness. USB4 and HDMI support two external 4K monitors @60Hz (without docking station). The enhanced 1080p FHD camera delivers clear, detailed video, while Windows Studio Effects, including background blur and automatic framing, help you look professional during video calls and virtual meetings.
- VERSATILE CONNECTIVITY - Equipped with two USB-C (USB4) ports, USB-A, HDMI, and a 3.5mm audio combo jack for seamless compatibility with monitors, docks, and essential peripherals. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 deliver fast, reliable wireless connectivity to keep you productive wherever you work. A full-size keyboard with a dedicated numeric keypad boosts productivity.
- OPERATING SYSTEM - Windows 11 Home provides built-in Copilot AI to help simplify everyday tasks, organize information, and enhance productivity. Built-in security features help protect your device and data, while an intuitive, user-friendly experience makes it easy to work, study, create, and stay connected throughout the day.
The review also reported an AI computer-vision benchmark score at least three times higher than the competing CPU and NPU results in that particular test set. That figure applies only to the benchmark and systems tested; it is not evidence that every AI task will run three times faster.
Short tests do not tell the whole story
The Galaxy Book4 Edge produced a strong short Geekbench 6 result. HotHardware noted that brief tests give the processor time to cool between workloads, so the score should not be treated as a sustained-performance prediction.
In Cinebench R23 multi-core testing, the laptop trailed Qualcomm’s 80-watt desktop reference system. The reviewer suspected a power or thermal limitation, but that explanation was an interpretation rather than a verified measured limit. The practical lesson is to distinguish a fast burst from performance maintained through long renders, compiles or repeated exports.
| Workload or feature | What the 2024 review found | How to interpret it |
|---|---|---|
| Office, Edge and other native ARM64 apps | Very strong performance | The platform’s best-case experience |
| Short Geekbench 6 run | Strong result | Useful for burst speed, not sustained throughput |
| Cinebench R23 multi-core | Below Qualcomm’s 80 W desktop reference | Long workloads may expose power or thermal limits |
| AI computer-vision benchmark | At least three times the competing results in the review’s set | Benchmark-specific, not a universal AI advantage |
| x86 applications | Run under Prism emulation | Compatibility and speed vary by application |
Windows app compatibility
Windows on Arm makes the distinction between native and emulated software unusually important. An ARM64 build can feel immediate and efficient, while an x86 build may work adequately, run slower, consume more power or expose an incompatibility. Essential applications should therefore be checked individually before purchase, especially specialist utilities, plug-ins, drivers and older business software.
Rank #3
- 【Snapdragon X X1-26-100 Processor】High-efficiency Qualcomm chip brings swift response for office work and AI operations.【Copilot+ PC】Equipped with exclusive AI acceleration hardware to fully unlock all Windows Copilot intelligent functions.
- 【15.6" FHD LED Display】15.6-inch full HD LED screen outputs clear and bright images for entertainment and office use.
- 【16GB RAM】16GB large-capacity high-speed memory ensures lag-free multitasking with multiple programs open.【1.5TB Storage】512GB UFS + 1TB Docking Station Set; Combines built-in 512GB UFS storage and a 1TB docking station to offer ample room for all your files and media.
- 【Qualcomm Adreno Graphics】Integrated Adreno graphics delivers steady image processing performance for media playback and light design work.【Numeric Keypad】Built-in numeric keypad speeds up data entry and financial spreadsheet operations.【Fingerprint Reader】Enjoy fast, secure one‑touch login. Instantly unlock your laptop with a simple tap for convenient privacy protection.
- 【Windows 11 Home】【Dimensions】14.04 x 9.05 x 0.59 in, 3.31 lbs.【Ports】1 x Headphone/Mic, 1 x USB Type-A, 2 x USB 4.0, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x Micro SD, 1 x Kensington lock. Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4.【Bonus Docking Station Set】1x 7-in-1 Docking Station with 1TB Storage, 1x 32GB MicroSD Card with Adapter, 1x Type-C Data Cable, 1x 3-in-1 Charging Cable, 1x Suede Cleaning Cloth.
The review does not establish current compatibility for every application. Its evidence is a July 2024 snapshot of the programs installed and tested then, not a current compatibility database.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Gaming: playable in some cases, unreliable in others
What worked
Games in the test relied on Prism emulation. Some older or lighter titles were playable, showing that the laptop can provide an acceptable casual-gaming experience when a game’s engine and protection systems cooperate.
What failed or degraded
Other titles suffered stuttering, crashes, anti-cheat incompatibility or unsupported CPU instructions. Results varied enough that a game working on Windows generally was not proof that it would work well on this Snapdragon system.
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Auto Super Resolution
HotHardware described Auto Super Resolution as an NPU-based upscaler. It was not consistently available across the tested games, and the reviewer saw visual artifacts and a latency penalty where it did operate. It should be regarded as an optional aid, not a substitute for native graphics performance.
Rank #4
- 【14" 3K AMOLED Touchscreen Display】Vivid 2880×1800 AMOLED with deep blacks, brilliant colors, and crisp detail. Responsive touch adds intuitive control—ideal for creative work, entertainment, and everyday immersion.
- 【Snapdragon X Elite with AI & Qualcomm Adreno Graphics】Flagship 12-core Arm processor with 45 TOPS NPU for blazing AI performance. Integrated Adreno GPU delivers smooth 4K visuals, light gaming, and creative tasks—all with exceptional power efficiency.
- 【16GB LPDDR5X RAM】Ultra-fast, low-latency memory for effortless multitasking, instant app responses, and optimized power efficiency for all-day computing.【1.5TB Storage】512GB UFS+1TB Docking Station Set. Rapid system responsiveness with UFS storage, plus a 1TB dock for massive file capacity and seamless backups.
- 【Long Battery Life & Light】All-day power and ultra-light portability—stay productive anywhere without the weight.【Backlit Keyboard】Enjoy comfortable and accurate typing, even in dim light.【Fingerprint Reader】Eliminate password fatigue by replacing complex passwords with a simple and secure fingerprint scan.【FHD Camera】Sharp 1080p video for clear calls.
- 【Windows 11】 12.30" x 8.81" x 0.43", 2.62 lbs. 【Ports】 2 x USB-C 4, 1 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x Headphone/Microphone Combo, 1 x microSD Card Reader. Wi-Fi 7 + Bluetooth 5.3.【Bonus Docking Station Set】1x 7-in-1 Docking Station with 1TB Storage, 1x 32GB MicroSD Card with Adapter, 1x Type-C Data Cable, 1x 3-in-1 Charging Cable, 1x Suede Cleaning Cloth.
For a buyer whose main purpose is gaming, the review’s conclusion was cautious: the experience was inferior to a Steam Deck OLED, and the reviewer did not prefer a Snapdragon laptop for on-the-go gaming at that time.
Battery life and acoustics
After calibrating the laptops’ displays to 105–110 nits, HotHardware recorded 900 minutes—15 hours—of video playback. This is a controlled playback result, not a promise of 15 hours of mixed browsing, compiling, video calls or gaming. The review also described the system as low-noise, which complements its portability.
The comparison cited in the conclusion involved another laptop with a larger battery, so the result should not be read as a processor-efficiency comparison alone.
Who should buy it?
A good fit
- Students and mobile professionals who value a large display, quiet operation and long unplugged playback.
- Users whose daily work is concentrated in ARM64-native Microsoft, browser, Adobe and common productivity applications.
- Buyers who want Copilot+ class hardware features and accept that software support depends on the application.
Look elsewhere first
- Anyone dependent on a specific x86 application, plug-in, driver or security tool without verified Windows-on-Arm support.
- Creators whose workloads run for long periods and require predictable sustained throughput.
- Frequent PC gamers, competitive players or anyone relying on anti-cheat systems and broad game compatibility.
How to compare it with alternatives
Use these questions rather than relying on a single headline benchmark:
- Are your essential applications ARM64 native? Native support is the clearest path to the reviewed performance.
- Is your workload bursty or sustained? Short benchmark scores may overstate long renders, builds or exports.
- Do you need dependable graphics or game support? An x86-64 laptop such as the MSI Prestige 16 AI Evo was presented in the review as stronger for graphics and x86-64 compatibility, although that comparison reflected 2024 models and software.
- Does battery life matter more than maximum compatibility? The Galaxy Book4 Edge’s 15-hour calibrated playback result favors mobility, while broader x86 support may favor a conventional Intel or AMD system.
- Can you accept soldered memory and storage? HotHardware reported that the RAM and SSD are soldered, so configuration choice at purchase matters.
Bottom line
The Galaxy Book4 Edge shows why Snapdragon X Elite laptops attracted attention: in native ARM64 software, it is exceptionally fast for a thin, quiet 16-inch machine, and its tested video runtime was excellent. It is not a universal replacement for an x86 Windows laptop. Emulated applications, long sustained workloads and games can behave very differently, so the right choice depends on whether your must-have software is native and whether gaming is central to your use.
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