Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 is a newer, more efficient chipset designed for entry-level smartphones, offering improved CPU performance and power efficiency over its predecessor. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 is an older 4-series chip that was notable for bringing 5G connectivity to the budget segment. The key differences generally lie in the manufacturing process, CPU architecture, and integrated GPU.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 480: Full Comparison
Introduction
Choosing a smartphone often involves understanding the capabilities of its processor, which acts as the device’s brain. For those considering budget-friendly 5G devices, two Qualcomm Snapdragon 4-series chipsets frequently come into view: the newer Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 and the older Snapdragon 480. This comparison aims to clarify their technical distinctions, from performance and efficiency to connectivity and multimedia support. By examining their specifications side-by-side, you can better understand which platform might align with typical usage patterns in this segment.
Performance and CPU Architecture
The core computing power of a chipset is defined by its CPU configuration and manufacturing process, which directly impacts speed and efficiency.
- Snapdragon 4s Gen 2: Built on a more modern 4nm manufacturing process, it typically offers better power efficiency. Its CPU uses a configuration of two Arm Cortex-A78 performance cores and six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores.
- Snapdragon 480: Fabricated on an 8nm process, it features a CPU with two Kryo 460 (Cortex-A76) performance cores and six Kryo 460 (Cortex-A55) efficiency cores. The newer architecture and process node of the 4s Gen 2 generally provide a performance uplift.
In practical terms, the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 can handle everyday tasks and moderate multitasking with slightly more headroom and efficiency than the Snapdragon 480.
Graphics and Gaming (GPU)
The integrated GPU handles visual tasks, from the user interface to mobile gaming.
- Snapdragon 4s Gen 2: Utilizes an Adreno 613 GPU. This GPU is designed to offer adequate performance for casual gaming and smooth UI rendering within its power envelope.
- Snapdragon 480: Equipped with an Adreno 619 GPU. While from an older generation, the Adreno 619 was a significant step up for its time in the 4-series. Real-world gaming performance between the two can be similar, though the 4s Gen 2’s efficiency advantages may sustain performance for longer periods.
Connectivity and Modem
Both chipsets bring 5G connectivity to affordable devices, but there are generational differences in their modems.
- Snapdragon 4s Gen 2: Features the Snapdragon X61 5G Modem-RF System. It supports both sub-6 GHz 5G and has a peak download speed that is generally higher than its predecessor’s.
- Snapdragon 480: Integrated the Snapdragon X51 5G Modem-RF System, which was the first to bring sub-6 GHz 5G support to the 4-series. It provides the essential 5G connectivity that defines this chip’s legacy.
Both support similar wireless standards like Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.1, ensuring standard connectivity features for the segment.
Camera, AI, and Multimedia
These capabilities influence photo processing, video playback, and on-device AI features.
- Camera Support: The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2’s Spectra ISP can typically support single cameras up to 108MP or dual 16MP+16MP setups. The Snapdragon 480’s ISP supports single cameras up to 64MP or dual 25MP+13MP. This suggests the newer chip can handle higher-resolution sensors.
- Video Playback: Both chips support Full HD+ display resolution and 1080p video playback at 60FPS. The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 adds support for FHD+ displays at 120Hz refresh rates, which can make for smoother scrolling.
- AI Processing: Both include a dedicated AI engine, though the newer chip typically features more advanced and efficient AI processing capabilities for features like voice assistants and camera enhancements.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 |
|---|---|---|
| Announced | September 2023 | January 2021 |
| Process Node | 4nm | 8nm |
| CPU Cores | 2x Cortex-A78 @ 2.4 GHz 6x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz |
2x Kryo 460 (Cortex-A76) @ 2.0 GHz 6x Kryo 460 (Cortex-A55) @ 1.8 GHz |
| GPU | Adreno 613 | Adreno 619 |
| 5G Modem | Snapdragon X61 (Integrated) | Snapdragon X51 (Integrated) |
| Max Display Support | FHD+ @ 120Hz | FHD+ @ 120Hz |
| Camera ISP | Up to 108MP single 16MP + 16MP dual |
Up to 64MP single 25MP + 13MP dual |
| Video Capture | 1080p @ 60FPS | 1080p @ 60FPS |
| Charging Technology | Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ | Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ |
| Bluetooth | 5.1 | 5.1 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) |
FAQ
What is the main difference between Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 and Snapdragon 480?
The primary differences are the manufacturing process (4nm vs 8nm) and CPU architecture. The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 is built on a more efficient 4nm process and uses newer Cortex-A78 performance cores, which typically result in better performance and battery efficiency compared to the older Snapdragon 480.
Which chip has better 5G connectivity?
Both chips integrate 5G modems for sub-6 GHz networks. The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 features the newer X61 modem, which generally offers improved peak download speeds and power efficiency over the Snapdragon 480’s X51 modem, though both provide the core 5G functionality for budget devices.
Is the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 better for gaming than the Snapdragon 480?
Gaming performance is often comparable, as both GPUs (Adreno 613 and Adreno 619) are designed for casual gaming. The Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 may have an advantage in sustained performance due to its more efficient 4nm design, which can help maintain frame rates over longer sessions without thermal throttling.
Can phones with these chips support high refresh rate displays?
Yes, both the Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 and Snapdragon 480 officially support displays with up to a 120Hz refresh rate at Full HD+ resolution, enabling smoother scrolling and animations on devices that include such screens.
Final Thoughts
The comparison between the Qualcomm Snapdragon 4s Gen 2 and the Snapdragon 480 highlights a clear generational improvement. The newer 4s Gen 2 brings a more advanced manufacturing process and CPU architecture, which typically translates to gains in efficiency and everyday performance. The Snapdragon 480 remains a significant chip for its role in democratizing 5G. The choice between devices powered by these platforms often comes down to the specific implementation by the device manufacturer, including factors like RAM, software optimization, cooling, and display quality. Understanding these core silicon differences provides a solid foundation for evaluating the overall potential of a smartphone in the entry-level 5G market.