Why Everyone's Talking About NPUs: What They Do and Why They Matter
If you've looked at laptop listings lately, you might have noticed a new spec popping up next to the CPU and GPU: the NPU. To many shoppers, that raises a fairly simple question: What is an NPU and why has it suddenly become so important?
NPUs are becoming more common in laptops as AI features become part of everyday computing. Whether it's cleaner video calls or longer battery life, these are actual benefits instead of theoretical ones. That said, the terminology may be confusing if you're hearing it for the first time.
In this guide, we'll explain the NPU meaning from scratch. We will explain what an NPU is in comparison to CPUs and GPUs, show you real-life examples of what an NPU actually does, and help you determine whether you should consider one for your next laptop. No technical knowledge is necessary.
What Is an NPU? (Simple Definition)
An NPU (short for Neural Processing Unit) is a specialised processor engineered to perform AI-related tasks efficiently, including voice recognition, image enhancement, background blur, and real-time transcription with minimal power consumption.
In short, it is a dedicated on-device AI chip that enables you to use AI features faster, smoother, and more battery-friendly.
The Specialist Analogy: CPU vs GPU vs NPU
To understand the difference between CPU, GPU, and NPU, think of each processor as a specialist in a different job role.
CPU: The Generalist
The Central Processing Unit (CPU) is your computer's brain. It performs several functions, from running the operating system to opening apps to loading web pages. It can be used by AI applications, but that is not its intended use.
GPU: The Graphics Specialist
A Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) handles the processing of visual data at high resolution. It drives games, video playback, and creative work. GPUs can also be used for AI, but they use a lot of power.
NPU: The AI Specialist
The NPU is built specifically for AI workloads. It is designed for pattern-matching applications like voice recognition, facial recognition, and image enhancement.
This NPU vs CPU vs GPU specialisation is important because the correct processor can perform the same task faster and more efficiently.
How NPUs Work (Without the Jargon)
AI tasks are often about pattern recognition as opposed to rule following, such as identifying your voice, isolating it from background noise, or locating your face during a video call.
An NPU is designed to execute many of these computations concurrently. This parallel processing lets it run through AI work at a brisk pace without pulling much power. That level of efficiency is what makes seamless on-device AI processing possible without your laptop getting too hot or your battery draining rapidly.
Consider it like a dedicated helper working silently in the background.
CPU vs GPU vs NPU: Performance Comparison
To get an idea of the NPU performance improvements, consider a standard AI use case: live background blur on a video call.
| Processor | Processing Speed | Power Use | Battery Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU | Works, but slower | High | Battery drains quickly |
| GPU | Fast | Very high | Significant battery loss |
| NPU | Fast and consistent | Low | Preserves battery life |
Table represents typical AI workloads like real-time background blur during video calls. Actual performance varies by task, implementation, and specific processor model.
For AI workloads, the NPU is the clear winner. This is why NPUs are becoming considered a core component of modern AI PC processor design.
Real-World Benefits You Will Actually Notice
When people ask what an NPU does, the answer is simple: it makes everyday computing better.
Smoother Video Calls
AI-based features such as face framing, background blur, and noise reduction work in real-time without lag, even during long meetings.
Longer Battery Life
Efficient NPU processing can extend battery life by 15-20% during AI-intensive workloads like extended video conferencing, potentially adding 1.5-3 hours to all-day battery life depending on your laptop's baseline capacity and usage patterns. By handling AI tasks at 5-10 watts instead of the 30-40 watts a GPU would require, NPUs preserve battery power for the tasks that matter most.
Real-Time Transcription
Live captions and meeting notes are more responsive and feel more accurate with local processing.
Faster Creative Edits
AI features in supported applications like Adobe Lightroom process noticeably faster with NPU acceleration. Photo and video editing tools with AI enhancements work more seamlessly, though the extent of NPU support varies by application—Adobe Lightroom has strong NPU integration, whilst Photoshop and Premiere Pro use a mix of NPU, GPU, and CPU acceleration.
More Responsive Local AI Tools
Apps that depend on AI feel instant because they don't have to send data to the cloud and wait for results.
These are tangible NPU benefits that you can feel, rather than abstract performance numbers.
On-Device AI vs Cloud AI: Why NPU Matters
Many AI processing tasks used to depend on cloud servers. Your hardware would send data up, wait for it to be processed, and then receive results back.
With an NPU, more AI tasks are processed directly on your laptop.
Why This Matters
- Privacy: Your data remains on your own device
- Speed: No internet latency
- Reliability: Works without an internet connection
- Efficiency: Lower power consumption
The shift to on-device AI chip processing is why NPUs are being included as a standard component in today's laptops, realising immense potential.
Is This Just Marketing Hype? (Honest Assessment)
It's legitimate to ask whether NPUs really matter or if they are just another marketing term.
Tasks That Are Not Particularly Benefited
- Browsing the web
- Emailing
- Watching videos
- Simple word processing
A good CPU can handle all of those just fine.
Strongly Enhanced Tasks
- Frequent video calls
- AI productivity tools
- Content creation with smart features
- Voice commands and transcription
- Privacy-sensitive AI tasks
An NPU does not replace the CPU or GPU. It complements them. For the right use cases, it adds real value.
Do You Need an NPU? (Decision Framework)
If you are wondering "Do I need an NPU?" ask yourself the following:
Do you use video calls regularly?
Yes → NPU is a strong benefit
Is battery life important during work or school?
Yes → NPU adds meaningful value
Do you utilise AI tools when writing, editing, or taking notes?
Yes → NPU is worth it
Do you prefer local processing for privacy?
Yes → NPU is a clear advantage
Final Recommendation
- YES: Frequent AI use, mobile work, long workdays
- MAYBE: Occasional AI features
- NO: Basic computing needs only
This framework helps match the technology to your real-world needs.
HP Laptops with NPU Technology
We collaborate closely with top companies to bring the best NPU in laptops for various scenarios.
HP OmniBook Ultra with Intel® Core™
Perfect for professionals and creators looking for balanced performance. Intel® Core™ Ultra 200V series (Lunar Lake) and newer processors efficiently handle AI workloads with a powerful 48 TOPS NPU that enables high-performance computing and meets Microsoft Copilot+ PC requirements.
HP EliteBook Ultra with AMD Ryzen™ AI
Built for business professionals who need long-lasting battery life. The responsive AMD Ryzen™ AI 300 series processors deliver 50 TOPS of NPU performance, empowering your most modern workflows with on-device AI capabilities and full Copilot+ PC support.
HP OmniBook X with Qualcomm® Snapdragon® X Elite
Great for on-the-go users who need exceptional battery life and always-on AI experiences. The Qualcomm® Snapdragon® X Elite delivers 45 TOPS of NPU performance with industry-leading efficiency, making it ideal for all-day mobile computing.
Discover all options in the HP AI PC Collection to pick your perfect match.
Common Questions About NPUs
Q: Can I add an NPU to my current laptop?
Quick Answer: No. NPUs are integrated into the processor (SoC) and cannot be added retroactively. If you want NPU capabilities, you'll need to purchase a new laptop with an NPU-equipped processor.
Q: Are all NPUs the same or do brands differ?
Quick Answer: No. Different vendors (Intel, AMD, Qualcomm) design their NPUs differently, but all aim to accelerate AI tasks as efficiently as possible. Performance is measured in TOPS (Trillion Operations Per Second).
Q: Will software work without an NPU?
Quick Answer: Yes, most software still runs on CPUs and GPUs. An NPU boosts AI capabilities and efficiency, but it is not essential for basic computing tasks.
Q: How long until NPUs are standard in all laptops?
Quick Answer: They're becoming standard now. With the growing number of AI features, NPUs are increasingly included in laptops at every price point, from budget to premium models.
Q: Does an NPU affect laptop weight or size?
Quick Answer: No. NPUs are integrated into the processor chip, so they don't add bulk or hinder portability.
Q: What is TOPS and why does it matter for NPUs?
Quick Answer: TOPS (Trillion Operations Per Second) measures NPU performance. Higher TOPS means faster AI processing. Modern Copilot+ AI PCs require NPUs with 40+ TOPS for efficient on-device AI capabilities. This threshold enables features like live captions, AI-enhanced video effects, and local AI assistant functionality.
Q: What's the difference between "AI PC" and "Copilot+ PC"?
Quick Answer: An "AI PC" generally refers to any computer with an NPU, whilst "Copilot+ PC" is Microsoft's certification for systems meeting specific requirements: 40+ TOPS NPU, 16GB RAM minimum, 256GB SSD minimum, and Windows 11. Copilot+ PCs unlock advanced AI features like Recall, enhanced Windows Studio Effects, and on-device AI assistant capabilities.
Conclusion
Understanding what an NPU is helps you make an informed buying decision. An NPU is not about spec wars—it's about providing smoother experiences, extended battery life, and accelerated on-device AI capabilities.
For users who rely on AI-assisted tools, a laptop with an NPU already delivers clear AI PC processor benefits. And for others, it's a glimpse at the future of computing.
Key Takeaway: NPUs are specialised processors that handle AI tasks efficiently, delivering tangible benefits like 15-20% better battery life during AI workloads (translating to 1.5-3 extra hours depending on your baseline battery capacity), real-time transcription, and enhanced privacy through on-device processing. They're most valuable for users who frequently use video conferencing, AI productivity tools, or require privacy-focused computing.
AI is now part of work and school life. Your choice of a laptop with the right AI chip today may prove helpful for the way you work tomorrow.
Discover HP AI PCs with NPU technology and find the right device for your needs today and tomorrow.
17598507329049.png)
