Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 and Snapdragon 695 are processors designed for different segments. The Snapdragon 860, an older flagship-tier chip, generally offers superior raw CPU and GPU performance. The Snapdragon 695, a newer mid-range chip, provides better power efficiency and integrated 5G connectivity.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 695: Full Comparison
Introduction
When evaluating smartphones, the processor is a core component that influences performance, efficiency, and connectivity. This comparison examines two Qualcomm Snapdragon processors from different generations and market positions: the Snapdragon 860 and the Snapdragon 695. Understanding their architectures, capabilities, and intended use cases can help clarify which chip might align better with specific user needs, whether for high-performance tasks or balanced daily use with modern connectivity.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The fundamental design and fabrication of these chips set the stage for their performance and efficiency profiles.
- Snapdragon 860: This chip is based on the older 7nm manufacturing process. Its CPU uses the Kryo 485 architecture, which is essentially a customized version of Arm’s Cortex-A76 and Cortex-A55 cores. This design was typical for high-performance chips of its era.
- Snapdragon 695: Built on a more advanced 6nm process, the Snapdragon 695 typically offers improved power efficiency. Its CPU utilizes the Kryo 660 cores, based on Arm’s newer Cortex-A78 and Cortex-A55 designs, bringing a more modern architecture to the mid-range segment.
The newer 6nm process of the 695 can contribute to better battery life under similar workloads, while the 860’s architecture was originally optimized for peak performance.
CPU and GPU Performance
This area highlights a clear trade-off between peak power and balanced, efficient performance.
- CPU Configuration: The Snapdragon 860 features a tri-cluster setup with one high-performance core, three mid-performance cores, and four efficiency cores. The Snapdragon 695 uses a dual-cluster setup with two performance cores and six efficiency cores. In synthetic benchmarks, the 860’s CPU often maintains an advantage in raw multi-threaded and single-threaded tasks.
- GPU (Graphics): The Adreno 640 GPU in the Snapdragon 860 is significantly more powerful than the Adreno 619 in the Snapdragon 695. This makes the 860 better suited for demanding 3D mobile gaming at higher graphics settings.
- Overall Experience: For everyday tasks like social media, browsing, and streaming, both chips provide a smooth experience. The 860 pulls ahead in sustained heavy workloads and gaming, while the 695 is optimized for capable performance with greater efficiency.
Connectivity and Modem
Connectivity is a major differentiator, with one chip representing a previous generation and the other embracing current standards.
- Snapdragon 860: It uses the external Snapdragon X24 LTE modem, which supports 4G LTE networks with peak download speeds. It does not have an integrated 5G modem.
- Snapdragon 695: A key advantage is its integrated Snapdragon X51 5G modem. This provides support for both sub-6GHz 5G networks, offering faster potential speeds and future-proofing in regions with 5G coverage.
The inclusion of 5G is a decisive factor for users in areas where 5G networks are available and a priority.
AI, Camera, and Additional Features
Both processors include dedicated engines for AI tasks and image processing, but their capabilities differ.
- AI Engine: The Snapdragon 860 utilizes the older Hexagon 690 DSP for AI processing. The Snapdragon 695 features the newer Hexagon 686 DSP and a dedicated Tensor Accelerator, which can handle AI-based tasks like camera enhancements and voice recognition more efficiently.
- Camera Support: The Snapdragon 860’s Spectra 380 ISP supports single cameras up to 192MP or dual 22MP cameras. The Snapdragon 695’s Spectra 346T ISP supports single cameras up to 108MP. Both support features like multi-frame noise reduction and 4K video capture, but the specific capabilities vary by device implementation.
- Other Features: Both support Quick Charge technology (4+ for the 860, 4+ for the 695), Bluetooth 5.2, and Wi-Fi 6. The 695 supports slightly faster LPDDR4X RAM speeds (2133MHz) compared to the 860’s LPDDR4X (2133MHz).
Comparison Table
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Architecture | Kryo 485 (1x Cortex-A76 @ 2.96 GHz, 3x Cortex-A76 @ 2.42 GHz, 4x Cortex-A55 @ 1.78 GHz) | Kryo 660 (2x Cortex-A78 @ 2.2 GHz, 6x Cortex-A55 @ 1.7 GHz) |
| Manufacturing Process | 7nm | 6nm |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Adreno 619 |
| AI Engine | Hexagon 690 DSP | Hexagon 686 DSP with Tensor Accelerator |
| ISP (Image Signal Processor) | Spectra 380 ISP | Spectra 346T ISP |
| Max Camera Support | Up to 192MP single / Dual 22MP | Up to 108MP single |
| Modem | Snapdragon X24 LTE (4G) | Snapdragon X51 5G (Integrated 5G) |
| Charging | Quick Charge 4+ | Quick Charge 4+ |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.2 |
| Intended Market Segment | High-Performance / Flagship (of its generation) | Mid-Range with 5G |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the Snapdragon 860 and 695?
The primary differences lie in their performance profile and connectivity. The Snapdragon 860 offers higher raw CPU and GPU performance but lacks 5G. The Snapdragon 695 provides modern 5G connectivity, better power efficiency due to its 6nm process, but with lower peak graphics performance.
Which chip is better for gaming, the Snapdragon 860 or 695?
The Snapdragon 860 is generally better for demanding mobile gaming. Its more powerful Adreno 640 GPU can handle graphically intensive games at higher settings and frame rates more consistently than the Adreno 619 in the Snapdragon 695.
Does the Snapdragon 860 support 5G?
No, the Snapdragon 860 does not have an integrated 5G modem. It uses the Snapdragon X24 LTE modem, meaning it is limited to 4G LTE networks. The Snapdragon 695 includes an integrated 5G modem.
Which processor is more power-efficient?
Typically, the Snapdragon 695 is more power-efficient. Its newer 6nm manufacturing process and CPU architecture are designed to deliver capable performance while consuming less power, which can contribute to longer battery life in similarly equipped devices.
Final Thoughts
The choice between the Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 and Snapdragon 695 hinges on user priorities. The Snapdragon 860 remains a competent performer for tasks requiring high computational and graphical power, making it relevant for users who prioritize gaming and performance over the latest connectivity. Conversely, the Snapdragon 695 represents a modern balance, offering sufficient performance for everyday use, significantly improved power efficiency, and the key addition of 5G support. The decision often comes down to whether raw performance or modern, efficient connectivity paired with capable performance is more valuable for the intended use.