Quick Answer
The Samsung Exynos 1380 and Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 are processors designed for different device categories and generations. The Exynos 1380 is a modern mid-range chip with an integrated 5G modem, while the Snapdragon 860 is a high-performance chip from an older generation, originally designed as a flagship processor without integrated 5G. Their architectures and target use cases are distinct.
Samsung Exynos 1380 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 860: Full Comparison
Introduction
Comparing mobile processors like the Samsung Exynos 1380 and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 helps clarify the evolving landscape of smartphone performance. While they may appear in similarly priced devices on the market, they represent different design philosophies, manufacturing eras, and technological integrations. This comparison will break down their specifications, performance characteristics, and typical use cases to provide a clear understanding of where each chipset excels and how they differ fundamentally.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The foundational design and construction of these chipsets highlight their generational gap.
- Exynos 1380: This processor is built on Samsung’s 5-nanometer (5nm) process technology. A smaller manufacturing node generally allows for better power efficiency and potential performance gains in a similar physical space.
- Snapdragon 860: This chip is based on a 7-nanometer (7nm) process. While this was advanced for its time, it is a previous-generation node compared to 5nm, which can impact overall efficiency.
The newer 5nm process of the Exynos 1380 typically provides an advantage in power consumption under similar workloads.
CPU Performance and Core Configuration
The central processing unit (CPU) layout defines the raw computational power for everyday tasks and multi-threaded operations.
- Exynos 1380: Features an octa-core CPU with a configuration of 4x Cortex-A78 performance cores (up to 2.4 GHz) and 4x Cortex-A55 efficiency cores (up to 2.0 GHz). This is a modern mid-range configuration focused on a balance of power and battery life.
- Snapdragon 860: Also an octa-core chip, but it uses the older Kryo 485 architecture, which is based on Cortex-A76. Its configuration is 1x prime core at 2.96 GHz, 3x performance cores at 2.42 GHz, and 4x efficiency cores at 1.78 GHz. Its single high-performance core can offer strong peak performance in certain applications.
The Snapdragon 860 may have an edge in sustained single-core tasks due to its high-clock prime core, while the Exynos 1380’s newer CPU architecture can offer better multi-core efficiency.
GPU and Gaming Capabilities
The graphics processing unit (GPU) is critical for gaming, UI animations, and graphical rendering.
- Exynos 1380: Utilizes a Mali-G68 MP5 GPU. This is a capable mid-range GPU that supports modern gaming APIs and can handle most mobile games at medium to high settings.
- Snapdragon 860: Equipped with the Adreno 640 GPU. This was a flagship-level GPU in its generation and remains very competent. It often delivers strong performance in graphics-intensive games and applications.
In general, the Adreno 640 in the Snapdragon 860 tends to offer higher raw graphical performance and better driver optimization for gaming compared to the Mali-G68 in the Exynos 1380.
Connectivity and Modem
This is one of the most significant differentiators, reflecting the chips’ release timelines.
- Exynos 1380: Includes an integrated 5G modem (sub-6GHz). This is a standard feature for modern mid-range and flagship chips, allowing for 5G connectivity without a separate component.
- Snapdragon 860: Requires a separate external modem for cellular connectivity (typically the Snapdragon X50 5G modem was paired with it in some devices, but it’s not integrated). By itself, the Snapdragon 860 platform natively supports up to 4G LTE.
The Exynos 1380 has a clear advantage in modern network connectivity with its integrated 5G support.
AI, Imaging, and Additional Features
Specialized processing units for artificial intelligence (AI) and image signal processing (ISP) affect camera capabilities and smart features.
- Exynos 1380: Features a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for on-device AI tasks and an ISP that supports camera systems up to 200MP for single shots. It supports 4K video recording at 30fps.
- Snapdragon 860: Uses Qualcomm’s Hexagon 690 processor for AI. Its Spectra 380 ISP supports single cameras up to 192MP and supports 4K HDR video recording at 60fps, which is a notable feature for video enthusiasts.
The Snapdragon 860’s ISP may support more advanced video recording features, while the Exynos 1380 incorporates a more modern AI processing design.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Samsung Exynos 1380 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Mid-Range (2023) | Flagship (2019-2020 Rebrand) |
| Manufacturing Process | 5nm | 7nm |
| CPU Cores | Octa-core (4x Cortex-A78 @ 2.4GHz + 4x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0GHz) | Octa-core (1x Kryo 485 Prime @ 2.96GHz + 3x Kryo 485 Performance @ 2.42GHz + 4x Kryo 485 Efficiency @ 1.78GHz) |
| GPU | Mali-G68 MP5 | Adreno 640 |
| Integrated Modem | 5G (sub-6GHz) | 4G LTE (5G via external modem) |
| AI Processor | NPU | Hexagon 690 |
| ISP & Camera Support | Up to 200MP single camera, 4K video @ 30fps | Up to 192MP single camera, 4K HDR video @ 60fps |
| Bluetooth Support | Bluetooth 5.2 | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Typical Device Class | Modern mid-range smartphones | Premium smartphones from 2020-2021, performance-focused devices |
FAQ
What is the main difference between the Exynos 1380 and Snapdragon 860?
The primary differences lie in their target segment, connectivity, and architecture. The Exynos 1380 is a modern mid-range chip with an integrated 5G modem and a 5nm design, while the Snapdragon 860 is a repurposed flagship chip from an older generation with strong CPU/GPU performance but typically relies on an external modem for 5G.
Which processor is better for gaming, the Exynos 1380 or Snapdragon 860?
For raw graphical performance, the Snapdragon 860’s Adreno 640 GPU is generally considered more powerful than the Exynos 1380’s Mali-G68 MP5. This can translate to higher frame rates or better graphic settings in demanding games.
Does the Snapdragon 860 support 5G?
The Snapdragon 860 chipset itself does not have an integrated 5G modem. Some devices using this platform may add a separate 5G modem (like the Snapdragon X50) to enable 5G connectivity, but this is not a standard or integrated feature of the chip.
Which chip is more power-efficient?
Due to its newer 5nm manufacturing process and more modern CPU core architecture (Cortex-A78/A55), the Exynos 1380 typically offers better power efficiency compared to the 7nm Snapdragon 860, especially under similar workloads.
Final Thoughts
The Samsung Exynos 1380 and Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 serve different purposes. The Exynos 1380 represents a contemporary, balanced approach for mid-range devices, emphasizing modern connectivity with integrated 5G, power efficiency, and competent all-around performance. The Snapdragon 860, despite being older, brings legacy flagship-level CPU and GPU performance to the table, which can be appealing for users prioritizing raw power and gaming, especially if 5G is not a primary requirement. The choice between them often depends on whether one values modern integrated features and efficiency or peak performance from a previous generation.