Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 930 are both 5G-capable mobile platforms designed for mid-range smartphones. The Dimensity 930 generally offers a slight edge in CPU performance and display refresh rate support, while the Snapdragon 695 is often recognized for its power efficiency. The choice between them can depend on the specific implementation and optimization by the device manufacturer.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 vs MediaTek Dimensity 930: Full Comparison
Introduction
When evaluating mid-range smartphones, the chipset is a central component that influences performance, battery life, and connectivity. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 930 are two prominent 5G-enabled platforms competing in this segment. This comparison aims to break down their technical specifications, typical performance characteristics, and feature sets to help you understand their differences and similarities. We will examine aspects like CPU and GPU architecture, connectivity, and multimedia support to provide a clear picture of what each platform offers.
Performance & CPU Architecture
Both chipsets are built on a 6nm manufacturing process, which typically offers a good balance of performance and power efficiency.
- Snapdragon 695: Features an octa-core CPU with a configuration of 2x Kryo 660 Gold cores (based on ARM Cortex-A78) clocked at up to 2.2 GHz and 6x Kryo 660 Silver cores (based on ARM Cortex-A55) at up to 1.7 GHz. This is a balanced setup for everyday tasks.
- Dimensity 930: Also uses an octa-core CPU but with a different arrangement: 2x ARM Cortex-A78 performance cores at up to 2.2 GHz and 6x ARM Cortex-A55 efficiency cores at up to 2.0 GHz. The slightly higher clock speed on the efficiency cores can contribute to smoother performance in multi-threaded scenarios.
In synthetic benchmarks, the Dimensity 930 often shows a marginal lead in CPU performance, though real-world differences in typical use may be minimal.
Graphics & Gaming (GPU)
The GPU handles gaming visuals and general interface animations.
- Snapdragon 695: Utilizes the Adreno 619 GPU. It is a capable GPU for casual to moderate mobile gaming at medium settings and supports popular APIs like Vulkan 1.1 and OpenGL ES 3.2.
- Dimensity 930: Employs the IMG BXM-8-256 GPU from Imagination Technologies. Performance is generally in a similar league to the Adreno 619, suitable for the same tier of games. The actual gaming experience can vary based on the game’s optimization for each platform.
Both GPUs support high refresh rate displays, a key feature for smooth scrolling and gameplay.
Connectivity & 5G
5G connectivity is a flagship feature for both these platforms.
- Snapdragon 695: Integrates the Snapdragon X51 5G Modem-RF System. It supports both sub-6 GHz 5G networks and has theoretical peak download speeds of up to 2.5 Gbps.
- Dimensity 930: Features an integrated 5G modem supporting sub-6GHz networks. MediaTek’s 5G UltraSave technology is designed to enhance power efficiency during 5G connectivity.
Both support essential connectivity standards like Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, and multiple satellite navigation systems. The Snapdragon 695 typically supports Quick Charge 4+ technology, while charging speeds for Dimensity 930 devices depend on the manufacturer’s implementation.
Camera & Multimedia Support
The image signal processor (ISP) determines camera capabilities and limits.
- Snapdragon 695: Equipped with the Spectra 346T ISP. It can support a single camera up to 108MP, dual cameras up to 16MP + 16MP, and capture video at up to 1080p resolution at 120 fps or 720p at 240 fps for slow-motion.
- Dimensity 930: Uses a MediaTek ISP that supports a single camera up to 108MP or dual 20MP + 20MP cameras. It supports video recording up to 4K at 30fps, which is a step above the Snapdragon 695’s 1080p limit.
For display support, the Dimensity 930 can drive panels with refresh rates up to 120Hz at FHD+ resolution. The Snapdragon 695 also supports up to 120Hz at FHD+, making high refresh rates standard for devices using these chips.
Comparison Table: Snapdragon 695 vs Dimensity 930
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 | MediaTek Dimensity 930 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Process | 6nm | 6nm |
| CPU Cores | Octa-core (2x Cortex-A78 at 2.2 GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 at 1.7 GHz) | Octa-core (2x Cortex-A78 at 2.2 GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 at 2.0 GHz) |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | IMG BXM-8-256 |
| 5G Modem | Integrated Snapdragon X51 (Sub-6 GHz) | Integrated 5G Modem (Sub-6 GHz) |
| Max Display Support | FHD+ @ 120Hz | FHD+ @ 120Hz |
| Camera ISP | Spectra 346T | MediaTek ISP |
| Max Photo Resolution | Up to 108MP single | Up to 108MP single |
| Max Video Capture | 1080p @ 120fps | 4K @ 30fps |
| AI Processing | Hexagon Tensor Accelerator | MediaTek APU |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| Wi-Fi Standard | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the Snapdragon 695 and Dimensity 930?
The most notable differences are in the GPU (Adreno 619 vs IMG BXM-8-256) and video recording capabilities, where the Dimensity 930 supports 4K recording while the Snapdragon 695 is limited to 1080p. Their CPU architectures are very similar.
Which chipset is better for gaming?
Both are suited for casual and moderate mobile gaming. Performance can be very close, often depending on the specific game’s optimization for either Qualcomm or MediaTek GPUs. The Dimensity 930’s support for 4K video encoding does not directly translate to higher in-game graphics.
Do phones with these chipsets support 5G?
Yes, both the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 930 have integrated 5G modems, making them 5G-capable platforms for sub-6GHz networks.
Which one is more power efficient?
Both are built on the same 6nm process, which generally offers good efficiency. The Snapdragon 695 has a reputation for strong power management, but the Dimensity 930 also includes power-saving technologies for its 5G modem. Real-world battery life depends more on the phone’s overall design and battery capacity.
Final Thoughts
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 930 are closely matched competitors in the mid-range mobile processor market. The Dimensity 930 holds a slight advantage in CPU clock speeds and offers higher 4K video recording support. The Snapdragon 695 is a well-established platform known for its reliable performance and efficiency. When considering a smartphone powered by either chipset, it’s important to look at the complete package—including RAM, storage, display quality, software optimization, and battery capacity—as these factors collectively determine the overall user experience. The choice often comes down to the specific implementation and feature prioritization of the device manufacturer.