Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 680 are both 6nm mobile platforms designed for mid-range devices. The Snapdragon 695 typically offers superior performance due to its newer CPU architecture and faster GPU, while the Snapdragon 680 focuses on efficient, reliable performance for everyday tasks.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 680: Full Comparison
Introduction
When evaluating mid-range smartphones, the chipset is a central component that influences overall performance, efficiency, and capability. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 680 are two popular options found in many devices. This comparison aims to break down their technical specifications, performance characteristics, and typical use cases to help you understand their key differences and similarities.
Performance and CPU Architecture
The core computing power of these two chipsets shows a clear generational difference.
- Snapdragon 695: It utilizes a CPU configuration with two high-performance Kryo 660 Gold cores (based on ARM Cortex-A78) clocked at 2.2 GHz and six efficiency Kryo 660 Silver cores (Cortex-A55) at 1.7 GHz. This newer architecture provides a noticeable uplift in processing speed for more demanding applications.
- Snapdragon 680: This platform features a CPU with four Kryo 265 Gold cores (Cortex-A73) at 2.4 GHz and four Kryo 265 Silver cores (Cortex-A53) at 1.9 GHz. While the peak clock speed is slightly higher, the older Cortex-A73 cores are generally less efficient and powerful than the A78 cores in the 695.
In practical terms, the Snapdragon 695 is better suited for multitasking and more intensive tasks like gaming or photo editing.
Graphics and Gaming (GPU)
The graphical performance gap between these platforms is often significant for gaming.
- Snapdragon 695: It integrates the Adreno 619 GPU. This GPU supports smoother gameplay at higher graphical settings in popular titles and is compatible with features like Variable Rate Shading (VRS) for improved efficiency.
- Snapdragon 680: It uses the older Adreno 610 GPU. This GPU is capable of handling casual gaming and light 3D tasks but may struggle with consistent frame rates in more graphically intensive games at higher settings.
For users who prioritize mobile gaming, the Snapdragon 695 typically provides a more capable experience.
Connectivity and Modem
This is one of the most defining differences between the two chipsets.
- Snapdragon 695: A key advantage is its integrated Snapdragon X51 5G modem. This allows devices built on this platform to connect to both sub-6 GHz 5G networks, offering faster potential download and upload speeds where 5G is available.
- Snapdragon 680: It features the Snapdragon X11 LTE modem. This is a 4G LTE modem, meaning devices with this chipset are limited to 4G networks. Its peak LTE download speeds are lower compared to the potential of 5G.
The inclusion of 5G support makes the Snapdragon 695 a more future-proof choice in regions with expanding 5G coverage.
Camera and AI Capabilities
Both chipsets include Qualcomm’s Spectra image signal processors (ISPs) for camera processing.
- Snapdragon 695: Features the Spectra 346T ISP. It can support camera configurations up to a single 108MP photo capture or dual 16MP+16MP cameras with zero shutter lag. It also includes a 5th generation Qualcomm AI Engine for enhanced computational photography features like scene detection and noise reduction.
- Snapdragon 680: Equipped with the Spectra 346 ISP. It supports camera setups up to a single 64MP capture or dual 16MP+16MP. Its AI processing is handled by the 3rd generation Qualcomm AI Engine, which is capable but less advanced than the 695’s.
The Snapdragon 695 generally allows for higher-resolution sensors and more advanced AI-assisted camera features.
Manufacturing Process and Efficiency
Both platforms are built on a 6-nanometer (6nm) manufacturing process. This modern process helps in balancing performance with power consumption, contributing to better battery life in devices. While they share this efficiency foundation, the newer architecture of the Snapdragon 695 can sometimes deliver more performance per watt of power used.
Comparison Table: Snapdragon 695 vs Snapdragon 680
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Architecture | 2x Kryo 660 Gold (Cortex-A78) @ 2.2 GHz 6x Kryo 660 Silver (Cortex-A55) @ 1.7 GHz |
4x Kryo 265 Gold (Cortex-A73) @ 2.4 GHz 4x Kryo 265 Silver (Cortex-A53) @ 1.9 GHz |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 610 |
| Manufacturing Process | 6nm | 6nm |
| Modem | Snapdragon X51 5G (Integrated) Sub-6 GHz |
Snapdragon X11 LTE (Integrated) |
| ISP (Image Signal Processor) | Spectra 346T Up to 108MP single camera |
Spectra 346 Up to 64MP single camera |
| AI Engine | 5th Generation Qualcomm AI Engine | 3rd Generation Qualcomm AI Engine |
| Display Support | FHD+ @ 120Hz | FHD+ @ 90Hz |
| Quick Charge Support | Quick Charge 4+ | Quick Charge 3.0 |
| Bluetooth | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.1 |
FAQ
What is the main difference between Snapdragon 695 and 680?
The most significant difference is connectivity: the Snapdragon 695 has an integrated 5G modem, while the Snapdragon 680 is limited to 4G LTE. The 695 also features a newer, more powerful CPU and GPU architecture.
Which chipset is better for gaming, the Snapdragon 695 or 680?
The Snapdragon 695, with its Adreno 619 GPU, generally provides better gaming performance. It can handle more graphically demanding games at higher settings and smoother frame rates compared to the Adreno 610 in the Snapdragon 680.
Do both chipsets support fast charging?
Yes, both support Qualcomm Quick Charge technology. The Snapdragon 695 supports the newer Quick Charge 4+ standard, while the Snapdragon 680 supports Quick Charge 3.0. The actual charging speed in a device also depends on other factors like the included charger.
Is the Snapdragon 695 more power-efficient than the 680?
Both are built on the same 6nm process, which is efficient. However, the newer CPU cores in the Snapdragon 695 (Cortex-A78) are designed to be more efficient than the older cores in the 680 (Cortex-A73), which can lead to better battery life under similar performance loads.
Final Thoughts
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 680 serve similar market segments but with distinct advantages. The Snapdragon 695 emerges as the more modern platform, bringing 5G connectivity, superior CPU/GPU performance, and enhanced AI and camera support to the table. The Snapdragon 680 remains a competent 4G chipset, capable of handling everyday tasks reliably and efficiently. The choice between them often hinges on the importance of 5G connectivity and the level of performance required for tasks like gaming or multitasking. Understanding these differences allows for a more informed decision based on individual needs and priorities.