We all know that the core component of our computers and smartphones is the processor. Most of you know the processor names like Intel, Ryzen, M1 for computers. Some of you might also recognize smartphone SOCs like Snapdragon, Exynos, Kirin, A15 Bionic, and so on. But if you are not a tech-savvy person then it's likely that you have never heard the term x86 or ARM architecture. After reading the title, some of you might even ask, "What do you even mean by x86 and ARM?" Well, give me a second to describe these in the simplest terms so that even a child can understand.
Two CPU architectures are mostly used in our daily devices. One is ARM architecture and another one is x86 architecture. Now you might ask, "What do you even mean by architecture?" Well, CPU architecture means the basic instruction sets a CPU follows to execute the most basic operations like arithmetic operations, logical operations, input-output, and so on. It is the most basic level commands that a CPU follows to do basic tasks.
Now the question arises, "Which architecture is the best?" Before giving a direct answer, I would like to give a briefing about these architectures.
Firstly, x86 processors are designed to do heavy workloads. These CPUs are capable to do complex computation, editing, gaming, etc. As x86 processors are very powerful, these require high power to operate. These CPUs produce heat. A proper cooling system is a must for these CPUs. Intel and AMD processors are based on x86 architecture. These are used in almost every desktop and laptop.
So, "Does it mean that x86 is the best?" Well, the answer is much more complicated. Mobile devices are often used for basic workloads. These devices need high battery life and less heat output.
This is where ARM processors come in. ARM processors are not as power-hungry as x86 ones. These CPUs are more efficient than x86. This increases the battery life and makes them more suitable for handheld devices. These CPUs are capable enough to handle basic workloads. As ARM CPUs are not as powerful as x86 (exception: Apple M1), these don't produce heat like x86 based processors. These factors make ARM-based devices more sustainable.
Now let's talk about that one exception: Apple M1 has changed the game in favor of ARM. M1 chips are ARM-based but still super powerful. These chips are highly efficient too. M1 has changed the perception of general people that "ARM chips are not powerful enough". In a few cases, Apple M1 even beats equivalent x86 counterparts.
So, "Does it mean that ARM is the best?" Honestly speaking, it is harsh to call one better than another. Both architectures have their perks and caveats. Yes, Apple M1 is good but it's fully into Apple's ecosystem. They make both hardware and software which allows them to control every single aspect of the final product. The picture of the PC market is much more different than Apple's ecosystem. A few years ago, ARM-based Snapdragon SOC was used in a windows device. We all know how miserably that experiment failed. So, yes that the Apple M1 is doing great but it is x86 that owns the whole PC market. To take over the PC world, ARM still has a long way to go.
Few people might say that the x86 is dying. No one has seen the future but talking about the present, x86 is not dead in any meaningful way. Intel and AMD are making progress in x86 CPU space regularly. There is still a huge space for innovation in the x86 department. On the other hand, ARM already rules the smartphone market. ARM has an amazing future as Apple is proving it every single day. As tech enthusiasts, we can only hope that the innovation keeps rolling.