I use an x64-based PC at home and an ARM-based laptop when I travel. In my experience, the only reasons not to go with an ARM processor is if you need an 64-bit CPU for specialized software or for heavier gaming. I do some PC gaming at home myself, so I like a more traditional x64-based system for that. When I'm on the road, however, which is often, I really only need a light, energy-efficient machine for keeping up with work. ARM chipsets perfect for that as they're generally more power-efficient than x64 CPUs, which translates to better battery life. ARM-based devices tend to be quite slim and light, which is another advantage.
If you are thinking of buying a new computer or laptop in 2025, then many quality options can be your preferred choice. Whether it is about an ARM processor or still sticking to a x64-bit architecture, you can select the best depending on some of these aspects. Pros & Cons of an ARM Processor Pros: Have a less power-consuming design. Comes in a lightweight and compact size. Support different operating systems. Cons: Software compatibility issues. Have limited hardware variety. It can cause problems in overhead emulation. Pros & Cons of x64 bit Architecture Pros: They support a wide array of modern software without any need for emulation. Best for single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks. Offers a broad selection of processors catering to different performance and pricing levels. Cons: Requires a larger cooling system for heat reduction. They are not easily portable. Less prone to the coming future trends.
While the ARM processor is better in terms of power consumption the reality is a lot of software is still not fully compatible with the ARM infrastructure. You will find that simple programs and applications will malfunction, because the error is at the kernel level. ARM Processors are great I think for SERVER-use and LAPTOP-use. With laptops of course you're again going to be limited in terms of what software you can use, and when you run into an error you'll find there is no patch (as the code has to be rewritten). Laptops will benefit from this because of the extended battery life and lower power usage. The battery life is a well-worth-it trade-off with the software incompatbility issues. Server-use wise. Servers are much more forgiving, there will be a few control panels that probably aren't yet compatible with ARM processors, but you can easily bypass this using different or more main-stream software. The biggest benefit to server systems is the power usage.
In 2025, deciding between an ARM processor or x64 architecture depends on your needs and usage patterns. ARM Processors: Pros: Energy Efficiency: ARM chips are known for their power efficiency, offering longer battery life, which is great for laptops and mobile devices. Future-Proofing: ARM architecture is gaining momentum, especially with Apple's M1 and M2 chips, which provide excellent performance for tasks like web browsing, media consumption, and office work. Better Integration: ARM processors often have better integration with the operating system, providing smoother user experiences on devices designed around ARM. Cons: Compatibility Issues: Some legacy software, particularly for business and enterprise, may not be optimized for ARM. While the situation is improving, it's still a factor to consider. Limited Power for Heavy Workloads: ARM processors may not handle resource-intensive tasks like video editing or 3D rendering as efficiently as x64 processors. x64 Processors: Pros: Compatibility: x64 has broad software compatibility, supporting almost every application, especially business and enterprise tools. Higher Performance for Heavy Tasks: x64 processors are more suitable for demanding tasks like gaming, high-end design work, or software development. Cons: Energy Consumption: x64 chips typically consume more power, reducing battery life on laptops. In conclusion, for general office work or light tasks, ARM processors are ideal. However, for heavy-duty computing, sticking with x64 remains the better choice.
I would suggest choosing an ARM processor for energy efficiency, better battery life, and mobile app compatibility, ideal for lightweight laptops and everyday tasks. Stick with x64 if you need broad software support, gaming capabilities, or hardware customizability, as it's better suited for legacy applications and high-performance tasks. Your choice depends on whether portability or compatibility is your priority.
Your choice between ARM and x64 CPUs for a new computer in 2025 should be based on your individual requirements. Ultraportables and customers who value battery life would benefit greatly from ARM processors, which are renowned for their outstanding performance in light-duty applications and energy economy. Apple's M-series CPUs and other contemporary advances have helped them achieve a lot of popularity. Compatibility problems with certain legacy apps, however, may be problematic. On the other hand, x64 processors are superior for professionals, gamers, and business users since they can handle resource-intensive jobs with ease and are compatible with a wider variety of software. ARM is a fantastic option if you value mobility and utilize contemporary, optimized apps; x64 is a safer option for demanding workloads and wide software compatibility.