Article by Ayman Alheraki on January 11 2026 10:36 AM
In the rapidly evolving world of technology, Windows ARM64 devices have emerged as standout innovations, combining advanced performance with exceptional energy efficiency. But one common question arises: how compatible are these devices with traditional x86 programs, which have been the backbone of computing for decades? In this article, I’ll highlight the features of these devices and their incredible ability to run older applications. I’ll also share my personal experience after purchasing a device that supports this architecture and runs Windows 11.
Windows ARM64 devices are powered by processors built on the ARM architecture, which is designed to deliver high performance while consuming less power. This makes them perfect for modern laptops that require long battery life and smooth performance.
One of the most impressive features of Windows ARM64 devices is their ability to run x86 programs, allowing users to continue using their legacy applications without the need for replacements. Microsoft achieves this through a built-in emulator that translates x86 instructions into ARM-compatible code during runtime.
x86 (32-bit) Applications:
Windows ARM64 devices natively support x86 (32-bit) programs through emulation. This means you can run most older applications effortlessly.
x86-64 (64-bit) Applications:
Starting with Windows 11, Microsoft introduced an emulator to support x86-64 (64-bit) applications, expanding compatibility to include more modern software.
I personally tested these features on my new ARM64 device running Windows 11. I was pleasantly surprised to find that most of my older x86 applications worked seamlessly, even those that I expected might encounter compatibility issues.
The built-in emulator for Windows ARM64 devices is remarkably efficient at running x86 applications. While performance may not match that of native ARM64 apps, it is more than sufficient for most tasks. On my device, which features a modern ARM64 processor like the Qualcomm Snapdragon, I experienced smooth performance for everyday applications and light workloads.
Battery Efficiency: ARM architecture is designed for power savings, giving you hours of uninterrupted usage on a single charge.
Compatibility with Legacy Software: You can continue using your favorite apps without worrying about finding alternatives.
Native ARM64 Applications: As developer support grows, more apps are being optimized for ARM64, such as Microsoft Office and the Edge browser, offering faster performance and an enhanced user experience.
While the benefits are many, a few limitations should be noted:
Some applications that rely heavily on specific x86 features or direct hardware interaction may not work as expected.
Emulation performance might not be ideal for resource-intensive tasks or demanding applications.
However, during my tests, I found that the vast majority of programs I used were fully functional, and the minor limitations did not impact my workflow significantly.
Windows ARM64 devices strike a perfect balance between modern performance and backward compatibility. With continued improvements to Windows and its emulation capabilities, these devices have become an excellent choice for anyone seeking an integrated, forward-looking computing experience.
After personally testing an ARM64 device running Windows 11, I can confidently say that it exceeded my expectations. If you’re considering upgrading to an ARM64-powered device, you can transition seamlessly while enjoying the benefits of modern architecture and retaining access to your favorite legacy applications.