Are Copilot+ PCs worth it? Evaluating AI-powered Windows PCs

How do Copilot+ PCs compare to standard PCs?

Copilot+ PCs differ from standard PCs primarily in hardware. While both include a processor, GPU, memory and storage, Copilot+ PCs are a Microsoft-defined class of Windows 11 computers that must meet specific performance and configuration requirements.

Hardware requirements

To qualify as a Copilot+ PC, a device must include the following:

• An NPU capable of performing at least 40 trillion operations per second (TOPS).
• A high-performing processor -- either an ARM-based Qualcomm Snapdragon X Elite or X Plus, or x86-based models such as the Intel Core Ultra or AMD Ryzen AI.
• At least 16 GB of RAM.
• At least 256 GB of SSD storage.
• Windows 11 version 24H2 or later.
• A Microsoft Pluton security processor with TPM 2.0, Windows Hello and Windows Enhanced Sign-in Security support.

The NPU advantage

The NPU is what truly sets Copilot+ PCs apart from more traditional PCs by handling AI-intensive workloads locally, without requiring cloud services or internet connectivity. The NPU frees up the CPU and GPU to handle other processing tasks, resulting in more efficient AI operations, reduced energy consumption, extended battery life and improved performance across applications and workflows.

Exclusive AI features

The NPU enables users to access AI experiences built into Windows 11, some of which are exclusive to Copilot+ PCs:

• Click to Do. Provides contextual shortcuts for completing related tasks.
• Cocreator. Generates and refines images in real time from text prompts or existing images using AI.
• Live Captions with Translation. Translates live or recorded audio into English from over 40 languages while displaying real-time captions.
• Photo and image editing. Uses AI to edit and enhance images more efficiently.
• Recall. Creates a searchable timeline of user activity for locating previously viewed content using natural-language descriptions.
• Windows Studio Effects. Enhances video and audio during online meetings with features such as voice clarity, intelligent lighting and gaze correction.

Microsoft considers these important productivity features that enhance efficiency. However, the Recall feature has faced privacy and security concerns. After its initial release, Microsoft redesigned it to provide more control over its use, although concerns remain. IT teams often disable this feature on their managed Windows 11 devices to avoid any associated risks.

Understanding Microsoft's Copilot terminology

Microsoft's use of the term Copilot can be confusing. The Copilot AI assistant is available on any Windows 11 device, not just Copilot+ PCs, and can also be used on non-Windows devices. Copilot functionality is largely the same regardless of the hardware.

Microsoft also offers Microsoft 365 Copilot, a subscription service that provides advanced AI services across Microsoft 365 apps. It is available to eligible Microsoft 365 customers, not just those on Copilot+ PCs.

Microsoft previously offered Copilot Pro as an add-on for Microsoft 365 Personal, Family and Premium subscribers. The service is no longer available for purchase, and existing subscriptions ended on August 1, 2026.

The following table compares both types of computers.

Are Copilot+ PCs worth it?

When evaluating whether to deploy Copilot+ PCs, decision-makers should consider mobility needs, software requirements and existing IT management platforms. Under the right circumstances, Copilot+ PCs can offer the following benefits:

• Local AI processing. With an NPU capable of delivering at least 40 TOPS, Copilot+ PCs can run workloads locally, delivering exceptional performance while reducing cloud computing costs and reducing privacy risks.
• Greater battery life and mobility. Copilot+ PCs are lightweight, compact and high-performing, with significantly longer battery life than many standard PCs, especially ARM-based models. Many users can work an entire day without recharging, making these devices well-suited for mobile work.
• Productivity features. The NPU enables AI features in Windows 11, such as Windows Studio Effects and Live Captions with Translation.
• Enhanced security. Copilot+ PCs come with strong Windows 11 security features, including TPM 2.0, Windows Hello and the Microsoft Pluton Security Processor for secure identity and cryptographic services.

Who can benefit from Copilot+ PCs?

Organizations with mobile workers can potentially benefit the most from Copilot+ PCs. Field workers, sales reps and traveling executives can take advantage of these features, making it possible to work more efficiently wherever they are. They can also process AI workloads locally and offline, providing even more flexibility, without sacrificing performance or security.

Copilot+ PCs can also benefit non-mobile knowledge workers, especially those using Microsoft products and services. They can use tools to improve content, summarize information and perform contextual searches. In addition, Copilot+ PCs can benefit organizations of all sizes, including small and medium-sized businesses, which often have greater flexibility in adopting the ARM architecture.

Organizations with data privacy constraints that want to reduce their cloud exposure might also find Copilot+ PCs worth the investment, especially as they incorporate more AI into their applications and workflows. This approach avoids transmitting sensitive information over the internet or storing it in the cloud, which can be especially beneficial in highly regulated environments.

Organizations adopting modern workload strategies to support AI should also consider Copilot+ PCs. They can start by developing apps that use the local NPU, aiming to future-proof their business and gain a competitive edge.

Organizations that are preparing to refresh their aging hardware might also consider Copilot+ PCs. However, they should not purchase Copilot+ PCs simply because they are available, and they need new computers. Instead, they should limit Copilot+ PCs to specific users and roles, based on factors such as mobility or the need to process AI workloads locally.

As valuable as Copilot+ PCs can be in some circumstances, organizations are not likely to reap much benefit from them under the following circumstances:

• Users primarily perform basic office tasks using apps like Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace.
• Desktop apps require little or no local AI acceleration or rely on GPU acceleration.
• Workstations are shared, such as in kiosks or for temporary workers.
• Cost considerations prioritize immediate concerns, such as increased security controls and enhanced endpoint management.
• The current PC inventory has been recently refreshed.

Even if organizations cannot justify deploying Copilot+ PCs now, the landscape could look very different over the next few years. Microsoft is expected to continue adding AI features to Windows and other products, while third-party vendors will likely optimize their apps to take advantage of local NPU processing.

At the same time, workflows incorporating local AI processing are likely to become more standardized, as NPU-aware software becomes more common. Organizations can also expect more enterprise software to offload AI workloads to local hardware, improving performance, reducing cloud dependency and safeguarding sensitive data.

Manufacturers are expected to improve NPUs and their integration with other system hardware and software, while enhancing security and privacy controls. NPUs might even become standard equipment on PCs, much like GPUs, helping to drive down costs. NPUs could become standard on most PCs, potentially making those without them obsolete.

Additionally, improvements in ARM compatibility will continue as software vendors add native ARM support to enterprise applications, management platforms and peripherals. The rise of x86-based Copilot+ PCs will give IT buyers more options, especially as AI performance and battery life continue to improve.

Organizations might increasingly adopt Copilot+ PCs to manage cloud costs and meet security, privacy and compliance requirements, with NPU-based security potentially becoming mandatory in the future.

Leading Copilot+ PC models

Several vendors now offer Copilot+ PCs, and in most cases, they sell multiple models or variations of the same model. The following six models represent a small sample of the growing number of Copilot+ PCs on the market.

Although Copilot+ PCs are built for high performance, organizations should evaluate each model to ensure it meets users' performance and storage requirements, especially when running AI processes.

For example, some ARM-based computers feature the Snapdragon X Plus processor, while others use the X Elite processor, which is slightly faster. Dell's Latitude 7455 Laptop, for instance, offers users the choice between these two processors, along with various memory, storage and display options. In addition, some systems provide only 16 GB of memory and 512 GB of storage, while others might offer 32 GB of memory and 1 TB of storage. In some cases, the difference might be as simple as including more USB-C ports.

Battery life is a major concern for users. Although ARM-based computers excel in this area, IT buyers should consider system configuration and application workloads rather than relying solely on manufacturer estimates.

For example, the Lenovo Product Specifications Reference for the ThinkPad T14s claims a maximum battery life of up to 34.9 hours under ideal conditions. However, real-world battery life is often lower, leading Lenovo to describe it as "all-day" or "multiday." Before purchasing any Copilot+ PC, decision-makers should verify current information and conduct tests themselves.

Users prioritize mobility and performance, considering factors like size and weight. The Dell Latitude 7455 Laptop weighs 3.17 pounds, the ASUS Zenbook weighs 3.31 pounds, and the lightest ThinkPad T14s is only 2.72 pounds.

Many Copilot+ PCs support Wi-Fi 7, the latest wireless standard. Some models, like the Latitude 7455 Laptop and Surface Pro, also offer optional 5G connectivity. Copilot+ PCs also differ in design: The Zenbook is a traditional laptop with a touchscreen, whereas the Surface Pro is a 2-in-1 system that can function as both a laptop and a tablet.

Deciding whether Copilot+ PCs are worth the investment

Decision-makers must weigh the following factors when determining whether Copilot+ PCs are the right fit for their organization:

• Workloads and AI readiness. Assess the types of workflows and apps your organization currently supports, along with your future AI processing requirements. Does your organization plan to add applications that are optimized for local NPU processing? If it is moving toward modern workflows that incorporate local AI processing, Copilot+ PCs could be a good fit.
• User roles and mobility requirements. Consider which employees would benefit the most from using Copilot+ PCs. Mobile workers, executives, field personnel and other workers who need long battery life, strong performance and AI-assisted productivity tools might benefit more than employees who primarily handle routine desktop workloads.
• Security, privacy and compliance. Evaluate your security and privacy requirements and whether Copilot+ PCs align with them. Also assess how well Copilot+ PCs will integrate into your overall endpoint security and data governance strategy. Copilot+ PCs could strengthen an organization's overall endpoint security strategy, but decision-makers should also consider the governance and privacy implications of features such as Recall.
• Hardware refresh strategy. Identify your current and future hardware refresh cycles, as well as current procurement commitments. When are your PCs due for replacement? What are the target lifespans when purchasing new hardware? This could be a good time to consider Copilot+ PCs, at least for some employees.
• Business value and total cost of ownership. Perform TCO and ROI analyses to determine whether the additional costs of Copilot+ PCs are justified. Consider potential productivity gains, improved customer service and reduced cloud computing costs. For certain users and workloads, the ROI could easily justify the initial investment.
• Processor architecture. A key decision when choosing a Copilot+ PC is whether to opt for an ARM- or x86-based architecture. ARM-based PCs are typically more efficient, resulting in smaller, quieter, cooler computers and longer battery life. However, compatibility issues might arise with certain business or legacy software, even if emulation is used, potentially resulting in additional costs and reduced productivity. x86-based PCs are less likely to encounter these issues. Assess your software and peripherals for ARM compatibility and verify that your current management and data governance platforms can seamlessly integrate ARM-based Copilot+ PCs without disrupting operations. If your assessment uncovers issues, determine what is needed to resolve them.

Rollout strategy

Adopting Copilot+ PCs does not have to be an all-or-nothing decision. Organizations should consider first testing the PCs with a small pilot group of power users. Based on the results, they might consider a phased rollout to only those workers who could realistically benefit from such powerful machines.

Robert Sheldon is a freelance technology writer. He has written numerous books, articles and training materials on a wide range of topics, including big data, generative AI, 5D memory crystals, the dark web and the 11th dimension.