Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 are both 5G mobile platforms designed for budget and mid-range smartphones. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, being a newer generation, generally offers a more modern and efficient 4nm manufacturing process and slightly faster CPU performance. The Snapdragon 695, while older, often features a more capable GPU for graphics-intensive tasks.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2: Full Comparison
Introduction
Choosing a smartphone often involves understanding the capabilities of its processor, which acts as the brain of the device. For consumers looking at affordable 5G phones, two common chipset options are the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and the more recent Snapdragon 4 Gen 2. This comparison breaks down their technical specifications, performance in key areas, and typical use cases to help clarify which platform might be better suited for different user needs. We will examine aspects like CPU and GPU design, manufacturing technology, connectivity, and overall efficiency.
Performance & CPU Architecture
The core computing power of a chipset is defined by its CPU configuration and the manufacturing process.
- Snapdragon 695: This platform uses an 8-core CPU with a configuration of two performance cores (Kryo 660 Gold based on Cortex-A78) clocked at 2.2 GHz and six efficiency cores (Kryo 660 Silver based on Cortex-A55) at 1.7 GHz. It is built on a 6nm process node.
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 2: This newer chip also features an 8-core CPU but utilizes two Cortex-A78 performance cores at a higher 2.2 GHz and six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores at 2.0 GHz. A key advancement is its shift to a more modern 4nm manufacturing process, which typically allows for better power efficiency and potentially higher sustained performance.
In terms of raw CPU performance, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 often holds a slight edge due to its higher clocked efficiency cores and more advanced fabrication, which can translate to smoother everyday task handling.
Graphics & Gaming (GPU)
The GPU handles visual rendering, crucial for gaming and UI animations.
- Snapdragon 695: It is equipped with the Adreno 619 GPU. This GPU has been a common choice in its segment and is capable of handling popular mobile games at medium to high settings.
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 2: It uses the Adreno 613 GPU. While newer, the Adreno 613 in this implementation is generally considered a step down in raw graphics performance compared to the Adreno 619. This means the Snapdragon 695 can sometimes provide a better experience in more demanding 3D games.
For users whose priority is casual gaming, both are sufficient, but the Snapdragon 695 may offer higher frame rates in graphics-intensive titles.
Connectivity & Modem
Both platforms bring 5G connectivity to affordable devices, but there are differences in their modems and supported features.
- Snapdragon 695: It integrates the Snapdragon X51 5G Modem-RF System. This modem supports both sub-6 GHz 5G networks and mmWave (in specific regional variants), along with features like 5G PowerSave.
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 2: It features the Snapdragon X61 5G Modem. The X61 is a newer modem that also supports sub-6 GHz and mmWave, but it introduces a more integrated design that can contribute to better power efficiency during data transmission.
Both provide robust 5G support, with the X61 in the 4 Gen 2 offering potential efficiency benefits from its newer design.
Camera & AI Capabilities
The image signal processor (ISP) determines the camera features a phone can support.
- Snapdragon 695: It uses the Qualcomm Spectra 346T ISP. This ISP can support camera configurations up to a single 108MP photo capture or dual 16MP cameras with zero shutter lag. It also supports video capture at up to 1080p at 120 FPS or 720p at 240 FPS.
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 2: It is equipped with a dual ISP (Qualcomm Spectra). It supports similar photo capabilities, like a single 108MP sensor, but adds support for dual cameras with 16MP+16MP simultaneous capture. For video, it can record 1080p at 120 FPS and also introduces support for 720p at 240 FPS slow-motion.
The dual ISP in the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 allows for more flexible multi-camera operations, which can be utilized for features like bokeh effects or multi-frame processing.
Efficiency & Battery Life
The manufacturing process plays a significant role in power consumption and heat generation.
- The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2’s 4nm process is a notable advantage. A smaller node typically means the chip can perform the same tasks using less power, or deliver more performance within the same power envelope as an older chip. This often translates to longer battery life for similar battery capacities in devices.
- The Snapdragon 695’s 6nm process is still efficient but is less advanced than the 4nm node. In real-world use, phones with the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 may see slightly better battery endurance, especially during mixed usage scenarios involving 5G connectivity.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Announced | Q4 2021 | Q2 2023 |
| Manufacturing Process | 6nm | 4nm |
| CPU Cores | 8-core (2x Cortex-A78 @ 2.2 GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 @ 1.7 GHz) | 8-core (2x Cortex-A78 @ 2.2 GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz) |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 613 |
| 5G Modem | Snapdragon X51 | Snapdragon X61 |
| ISP (Image Signal Processor) | Spectra 346T (Single ISP) | Qualcomm Spectra (Dual ISP) |
| Max Camera Support | Up to 108MP single shot; Dual 16MP | Up to 108MP; Dual 16MP+16MP simultaneous |
| Max Display Refresh Rate Support | Up to 120Hz @ FHD+ | Up to 120Hz @ FHD+ |
| Charging Technology | Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ | Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.1 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between Snapdragon 695 and 4 Gen 2?
The primary differences lie in the manufacturing process and performance profile. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 uses a more efficient 4nm process and has a slightly faster CPU setup, while the Snapdragon 695 typically features a more powerful GPU (Adreno 619 vs. Adreno 613).
Which chip is better for gaming, the Snapdragon 695 or 4 Gen 2?
For gaming, the Snapdragon 695 often has an advantage due to its Adreno 619 GPU, which generally delivers better graphics performance than the Adreno 613 in the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2. This can result in higher frame rates in many 3D games.
Does the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 have better battery life than the 695?
In theory, yes. The 4nm manufacturing process of the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 is more power-efficient than the 6nm process of the Snapdragon 695. This efficiency can contribute to longer battery life in similarly configured devices under typical usage conditions.
Which processor supports a better camera system?
Both support up to 108MP main sensors. However, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 includes a dual ISP, which allows for more advanced multi-camera features and simultaneous capture from two sensors, potentially offering more versatility for camera software features.
Final Thoughts
The choice between the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 depends largely on user priorities. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 represents a newer design with a focus on CPU efficiency and modern manufacturing, which typically benefits overall system smoothness and battery longevity. On the other hand, the Snapdragon 695, while based on an older architecture, often holds its own, particularly in graphics performance for gaming. When considering a device powered by either chip, it’s important to look at the complete package, including RAM, storage, software optimization, and display, as these factors collectively determine the real-world experience.