For many years, I have been a steadfast user of traditional desktop Windows, seamlessly running 32-bit and 64-bit applications on Intel and AMD processors. The majority of the computing world operates on Windows 10 and 11, ensuring my vast collection of accessories and USB-powered peripherals always remain compatible, as manufacturers tend to prioritize drivers for x86-64 systems. However, curiosity led me to acquire a second-hand Surface Pro X to explore the realm of Windows on ARM, which prompted an evaluation of how everyday accessories fare in terms of compatibility.
It may come as a surprise to some that when it comes to physical accessories, compatibility concerns could arise, especially given that all apps function on Windows 11, whether they’re natively built for ARM or run via emulation. The real issue lies with hardware drivers, which are essential for PCs to recognize and communicate with connected devices. Microsoft has acknowledged potential difficulties with ARM compatibility. But what does this mean for actual usage?
Wireless Dongles and Bluetooth Connectivity
Wireless keyboards and mice typically use either a dedicated USB-A or USB-C dongle that employs 2.4GHz signals or Bluetooth technology akin to that in smartphones. In my office, awash with wireless devices, I decided to put this to the test with my Surface Pro X. A SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Wireless gaming keyboard, which supports both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, connected effortlessly via its USB-C dongle, as did a third-party Bluetooth wireless keyboard with an integrated touchpad.
Similarly, a Corsair Katar Elite wireless mouse connected without a hitch, whether via Bluetooth or USB-A, using a Targus docking station to compensate for the Pro X’s lack of USB-A ports. In terms of audio, I tested both affordable Bluetooth earbuds and RØDE’s high-end Wireless ME microphones; both paired easily with the Surface Pro X, thanks to Microsoft’s provision of generic drivers for such widely-used peripherals.
External Monitors and Gaming on Joypads
Utilizing the aforementioned docking station, I successfully connected a 27-inch Alienware gaming monitor via USB-C to HDMI, enjoying high resolutions and refresh rates with no noticeable issues. My 48-inch LG C2 OLED TV also connected effortlessly via webOS, although it’s a feature I seldom use.
When it comes to gaming, Xbox Cloud Gaming and NVIDIA GeForce NOW streaming services offer a world of possibilities, especially when paired with an official Xbox controller or a Victrix Gambit joypad. Cloud streaming has brilliantly bridged the gap for gaming, even on devices not typically associated with gaming, like those with ARM processors.
Printer Drivers Are the Only Real Caveat
While Microsoft concedes that there are limitations with printer and scanner functionality on ARM devices, I found that Windows 11’s default printer driver worked flawlessly for basic printing tasks like documents and PDFs. My Brother DCP-1610W printer was easily identified over Wi-Fi. Canon, among others, lists printers that are compatible with ARM devices, making it a good practice to verify with manufacturers for specific support. Although scanning presents more of a challenge, alternative methods like OCR features in the Snipping tool can offer a workaround.
Ultimately, aside from a few hiccups with scanning, my experience with Windows on ARM has shown that the vast majority of devices connect without any issues, making the transition much smoother than one might expect.
