Microsoft's venture into ARM architecture with the Surface Laptop 7 encounters a significant hurdle. Amazon has labeled the product as "frequently returned," indicating an unusually high return rate for this category of devices.
The transition to ARM architecture was a major strategic shift for Microsoft. With the Surface Laptop 7 powered by the Snapdragon X Elite processor, the company aimed to replicate Apple's success with its M1, M2, and M3 chips. However, several months post-launch, warning signs are emerging.
The recent warning from Amazon about the Surface Laptop 7 discourages potential buyers by highlighting its high return rate. Despite maintaining a 4.2 out of 5 average rating, around 12% of reviews are one-star ratings, primarily criticizing software compatibility and inconsistent performance. This indicates broader challenges in the adoption of Windows ARM PCs, as Microsoft recalibrates its approach by planning new Intel-powered models alongside its ARM range.