Quick Answer
The Samsung Exynos 1380 and Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 are processors from different generations and market segments. The Snapdragon 870, a flagship-tier chip from 2021, generally offers stronger raw CPU and GPU performance. The Exynos 1380, a mid-range chip from 2023, provides a more modern manufacturing process and integrated 5G modem.
Samsung Exynos 1380 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 870: Full Comparison
Introduction
Comparing the Samsung Exynos 1380 and the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 involves looking at two system-on-chips (SoCs) designed for different eras and device categories. This comparison is useful for understanding the trade-offs between a previous-generation flagship processor and a current-generation mid-range alternative. This analysis will break down their architectures, performance capabilities, feature sets, and typical use cases to help clarify their respective strengths and positions in the market.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The fundamental construction of these chips highlights their generational difference.
- Exynos 1380: Built on Samsung’s 5-nanometer (5nm) process. This newer, smaller manufacturing node typically allows for better power efficiency and can enable more transistors in a similar space compared to older processes.
- Snapdragon 870: Manufactured using a 7-nanometer (7nm) process. While not the latest, this was a proven and high-performance node for its time, used in many flagship chips.
The 5nm process of the Exynos 1380 gives it a theoretical advantage in power efficiency, which can translate to better battery life in similarly sized devices.
CPU Performance and Core Configuration
The central processing unit (CPU) design dictates general app performance and multitasking.
- Exynos 1380 (Octa-core): Features 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 balanced mid-range setup focused on efficient performance.
- Snapdragon 870 (Octa-core): Boasts a prime core based on the Cortex-A77 architecture clocked at up to 3.2 GHz, alongside three more Cortex-A77 performance cores at 2.42 GHz and four Cortex-A55 efficiency cores at 1.8 GHz. The higher-clocked prime core and use of Cortex-A77 cores generally provide superior single-threaded and multi-threaded performance.
In most synthetic benchmarks and demanding applications, the Snapdragon 870’s CPU maintains a noticeable performance lead due to its flagship-oriented design.
GPU and Gaming Capabilities
The graphics processing unit (GPU) is critical for gaming and graphical tasks.
- Exynos 1380: Utilizes an ARM Mali-G68 MP5 GPU. This is a capable mid-range GPU that can handle modern mobile games at medium to high settings, depending on the resolution.
- Snapdragon 870: Equipped with the Qualcomm Adreno 650 GPU. This was a flagship GPU in its prime and continues to offer strong graphical performance, often surpassing the Mali-G68 in frame rates and ability to handle higher graphical presets.
For intensive 3D gaming, the Adreno 650 in the Snapdragon 870 typically provides a more powerful experience.
Connectivity and Modem
This area shows a clear distinction in their integrated features.
- Exynos 1380: Includes an integrated 5G modem (sub-6GHz), Bluetooth 5.2, and Wi-Fi 6. The integrated 5G design is a standard for modern mid-range and flagship chips.
- Snapdragon 870: Typically paired with the external Snapdragon X55 5G modem (in most implementations), supporting both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G. It also features Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6.
While both support 5G, the Exynos 1380’s modem is integrated, which can sometimes be more power-efficient. The X55 modem paired with the Snapdragon 870 may offer broader 5G band support in some device configurations.
AI, Imaging, and Other Features
Additional silicon features impact camera processing and on-device AI tasks.
- Exynos 1380: Incorporates a Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for AI acceleration. Its image signal processor (ISP) supports camera configurations up to 200MP for single cameras and can handle multi-camera setups.
- Snapdragon 870: Features the Hexagon 698 processor for AI tasks. Its Spectra 480 ISP is a very capable unit that supports single cameras up to 200MP, 8K video recording, and advanced computational photography features.
Both ISPs are capable, but the Spectra 480 in the Snapdragon 870 is known for its robust feature set and performance, often found in premium phones during its release cycle.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Samsung Exynos 1380 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2023 | 2021 |
| Process Node | 5nm | 7nm |
| CPU Cores | Octa-core (4x Cortex-A78 @ 2.4GHz + 4x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0GHz) | Octa-core (1x Cortex-A77 @ 3.2GHz + 3x Cortex-A77 @ 2.42GHz + 4x Cortex-A55 @ 1.8GHz) |
| GPU | ARM Mali-G68 MP5 | Qualcomm Adreno 650 |
| 5G Modem | Integrated 5G (sub-6GHz) | External Snapdragon X55 (sub-6GHz & mmWave) |
| AI Engine | NPU | Hexagon 698 |
| ISP (Image Signal Processor) | Supports up to 200MP single camera | Spectra 480 ISP, supports up to 200MP, 8K video |
| Max Display Support | FHD+ @ 144Hz | QHD+ @ 144Hz / 4K @ 60Hz |
| Bluetooth | 5.2 | 5.2 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 | Wi-Fi 6 |
| Typical Device Class | Mid-range smartphones | Flagship / high-performance smartphones (2021-2022) |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Which chip is more powerful, the Exynos 1380 or Snapdragon 870?
In terms of raw CPU and GPU performance, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 870 is generally more powerful. Its higher-clocked Cortex-A77 cores and Adreno 650 GPU were designed for flagship-tier performance.
Which processor is more power-efficient?
The Samsung Exynos 1380 has a theoretical advantage in power efficiency due to its newer 5nm manufacturing process and a CPU configuration tuned for the mid-range segment, which often prioritizes a balance of performance and battery life.
Does the Exynos 1380 support 5G?
Yes, the Samsung Exynos 1380 includes an integrated 5G modem that supports sub-6GHz networks.
Can the Snapdragon 870 still handle modern games?
Yes, the Snapdragon 870 remains a very capable chip for gaming. Its Adreno 650 GPU can typically run most modern mobile games at high settings and smooth frame rates.
What type of phones typically use these chips?
The Exynos 1380 is commonly found in mid-range smartphones from Samsung and other brands. The Snapdragon 870 was used in many flagship and high-performance phones from 2021 and 2022, and it continues to appear in some value-focused performance devices.
Final Thoughts
The choice between a device with an Exynos 1380 and one with a Snapdragon 870 often comes down to prioritizing modern efficiency and integrated features versus proven raw performance. The Snapdragon 870 holds a clear lead in CPU and GPU power, making it a strong choice for demanding tasks and gaming. The Exynos 1380, with its newer manufacturing process and integrated 5G, represents a more modern mid-range design focused on balanced daily performance and power efficiency. The final decision typically depends on the specific implementation by the device manufacturer, the price point of the phone, and the user’s individual performance versus battery life preferences.