Apple’s launch of the MacBook Neo has sent the world of Windows spiraling as, in the midst of global RAM/storage shortages and ever-inflating costs, building a more affordable laptop is harder than ever. With the new Snapdragon C, though, Qualcomm wants to help build a proper alternative to the MacBook Neo, optimistically targeting $300 laptops.
At Computex 2026, Qualcomm has unveiled the Snapdragon C chip for Windows laptops, a new chip that’s an “entry‑tier processor designed to make modern personal computing more accessible,” Qualcomm says.
The press release itself doesn’t really give us too much information, but Qualcomm promises all-day battery life and the ability to build Windows laptops that start at just $300 with this new chip. Performance isn’t outlined, but Qualcomm mentions “smooth” web browsing and productivity tasks.
Snapdragon C supports smooth web browsing, video streaming, and productivity. It also includes an integrated NPU for AI capabilities in the entry-tier. Snapdragon C is engineered for power efficient everyday computing experiences people rely on in entry-level laptops without sacrificing portability or all-day battery life. The platform is designed for consistent performance of daily workloads in cool, quiet designs.
The first laptops with Snapdragon C are expected to arrive later this year.
The big difference between Snapdragon C and Snapdragon X appears to be the architecture, as Qualcomm hasn’t built this new chip on its Oryon cores, which were a major part of building out a more powerful chipset for Snapdragon X. While Qualcomm isn’t saying it explicitly, this chip is very likely based on a mobile Snapdragon processor.
If that sounds familiar, it’s exactly how Apple ended up building a cheaper laptop. The MacBook Neo, starting at $599, runs atop the A18 Pro chip found in the iPhone 16 Pro series.
While a cheaper chipset will certainly make an impact on building more affordable Windows laptops, the ongoing shortages will still make that tough – especially if the goal is to match the MacBook Neo on other points of quality.
Acer is announcing the first Snapdragon C laptop today in the Aspire Go 15, a 15.6-inch machine that maxes out at 8GB of RAM and 512GB of storage. Acer explains:
The Aspire Go 15 (AG15-Q31P) delivers the best of the essentials at an affordable price point for users to stay connected, productive, and ready for what the day brings. Powered by the new Snapdragon C processor, it offers smooth and responsive performance for essential tasks like working, web browsing, and streaming, paired with a cool, quiet design. For ample file and document storage, it offers up to 8 GB of memory and 512 GB storage, while long-lasting battery life powers unplugged productivity throughout the day. Its 15.6-inch display provides clear visuals with narrow bezels for a streamlined viewing experience. For connectivity, dual full-function USB Type-C ports and an HDMI port enable seamless device connection and charging, while Wi-Fi 6E delivers fast, reliable online experiences…
Acer has not shared pricing or a release date for the Acer Aspire Go 15.
More on Snapdragon:
- Qualcomm says its new Snapdragon chips will have less lag on mid-range Android phones
- Qualcomm announces Snapdragon Wear Elite for next gen of Wear OS, Galaxy Watch
- Qualcomm debuts its first Wi-Fi 8-ready chip, commits to launching 6G networks by 2029
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