Benchmarks: CPU
Our performance tests start by examining CPU credentials and our first numbers make for interesting reading. Remembering that the X3 Plus v3 has a slightly slower quad-core processor when compared to the original model (3.5GHz vs 3.6GHz), it's no surprise to find the new revision falling fractionally off the pace in the single-threaded PiFast test.
But what's happening in the Cinebench and Handbrake tests? Sifting through our log files reveals the answer: the X3 Plus v3 isn't outfitted with the fastest CPU, but in these demanding benchmarks the laptop doesn't throttle as much as the competition, allowing it to come out on top. This is an important truth that many gaming laptops often fail to realise - peak CPU frequency is important, but so is the ability to maintain high speeds when stressed.