Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 6400 are both 5G-capable mobile platforms designed for mid-range smartphones. The Dimensity 6400 generally offers a newer CPU architecture and a more advanced image signal processor (ISP), while the Snapdragon 695 is known for its power efficiency and widespread adoption in many devices.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 vs MediaTek Dimensity 6400: Full Comparison
Introduction
Choosing a smartphone often involves understanding the chipset at its core, which dictates performance, camera capabilities, and connectivity. In the competitive mid-range segment, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 6400 are two prominent 5G options. This comparison breaks down their key specifications, architectural differences, and typical use-case scenarios to help clarify which platform might align better with different user priorities, from gaming to photography.
Performance and CPU Architecture
The core computing power of a chipset is defined by its CPU configuration and manufacturing process.
- Snapdragon 695: Built on a 6nm process, it features an octa-core CPU with two Kryo 660 Gold cores (based on Cortex-A78) clocked at 2.2 GHz and six Kryo 660 Silver cores (Cortex-A55) at 1.7 GHz. This configuration is designed for balanced performance and efficiency.
- Dimensity 6400: Also fabricated on a 6nm node, it utilizes a newer CPU layout: two Cortex-A76 performance cores at 2.4 GHz and six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores at 2.0 GHz. The higher clock speeds on the efficiency cores can contribute to snappier general task performance.
In terms of raw CPU performance, the Dimensity 6400 typically holds a slight edge due to its higher clock speeds, though both are capable of handling everyday tasks smoothly.
Graphics and Gaming (GPU)
The GPU handles visual rendering, crucial for gaming and UI animations.
- Snapdragon 695: Integrates the Adreno 619 GPU. It provides reliable performance for casual and mid-tier mobile gaming at moderate settings.
- Dimensity 6400: Equipped with the ARM Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. Performance is generally comparable to the Adreno 619, with support for modern gaming APIs. Real-world gaming performance can vary based on the device manufacturer’s optimization.
Both GPUs support popular mobile titles, but demanding games may require lower graphic settings for a consistently high frame rate on either platform.
Camera and Imaging Capabilities
The Image Signal Processor (ISP) determines how well a chipset can process photos and videos.
- Snapdragon 695: Features the Spectra 346T ISP. It can support a single camera up to 108MP, dual 16MP cameras, or video capture at 1080p @ 120fps or 720p @ 240fps.
- Dimensity 6400: Incorporates the Imagiq 765 ISP, which is a more recent design. It supports camera configurations up to a 108MP single sensor or 32MP + 16MP dual cameras. It also supports 4K video recording at 30fps, a step above the Snapdragon 695’s typical 1080p limit.
The Dimensity 6400’s ISP generally offers more advanced features, including native support for 4K video, which can be a differentiator for video recording.
Connectivity and Modem
Both chipsets are focused on bringing 5G connectivity to affordable devices.
- Snapdragon 695: Includes the Snapdragon X51 5G modem-RF system. It supports both sub-6 GHz 5G and mmWave (in specific variants), with peak download speeds up to 2.5 Gbps.
- Dimensity 6400: Features an integrated 5G modem supporting sub-6GHz networks. It also supports 5G carrier aggregation and dual 5G SIM standby, which can improve network reliability and speed in supported regions.
While both enable 5G, the specific bands and performance depend heavily on the smartphone’s regional variant and carrier support.
AI, Memory, and Display Support
These features influence the overall user experience and device capabilities.
- AI Processing: The Snapdragon 695 uses a Hexagon 686 processor for AI tasks. The Dimensity 6400 leverages MediaTek’s APU. Both enable common AI-enhanced features like scene detection in cameras and voice assistants.
- Memory Support: Both platforms support LPDDR4x RAM and UFS 2.2 storage, ensuring fast app loading and data transfer speeds typical for their segment.
- Display Support: The Snapdragon 695 can drive FHD+ displays at up to 120Hz refresh rate. The Dimensity 6400 officially supports FHD+ displays with refresh rates up to 120Hz as well.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 | MediaTek Dimensity 6400 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Process | 6nm | 6nm |
| CPU Cores | 2x Cortex-A78 @ 2.2 GHz 6x Cortex-A55 @ 1.7 GHz |
2x Cortex-A76 @ 2.4 GHz 6x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | ARM Mali-G57 MC2 |
| ISP (Image Processor) | Spectra 346T Up to 108MP single cam 1080p @ 120fps video |
Imagiq 765 Up to 108MP single cam 4K @ 30fps video |
| 5G Modem | Integrated Snapdragon X51 (Sub-6 & mmWave*) |
Integrated 5G Modem (Sub-6GHz) |
| AI Processor | Hexagon 686 | MediaTek APU |
| Max Display Support | FHD+ @ 120Hz | FHD+ @ 120Hz |
| Memory Support | LPDDR4x, UFS 2.2 | LPDDR4x, UFS 2.2 |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.2 |
*mmWave support is device-dependent and not available in all regions.
FAQ
What is the main difference between the Snapdragon 695 and Dimensity 6400?
The primary differences lie in the CPU architecture and the camera ISP. The Dimensity 6400 uses a newer Cortex-A76 core design and supports 4K video recording, while the Snapdragon 695 is based on a slightly older A78 design but is known for its consistent power efficiency.
Which chipset is better for gaming?
Both chipsets offer similar tier GPU performance suitable for casual and mid-level gaming. The Mali-G57 MC2 in the Dimensity 6400 and the Adreno 619 in the Snapdragon 695 are closely matched. For a better gaming experience, the specific device’s cooling system and software optimization are often as important as the chipset itself.
Does the Snapdragon 695 support 4K video recording?
Typically, no. The Spectra 346T ISP in the Snapdragon 695 is generally limited to 1080p video recording at high frame rates. 4K video capture is a key advantage of the Dimensity 6400’s Imagiq 765 ISP.
Are phones with these chipsets 5G capable?
Yes, both the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 6400 integrate 5G modems, making them foundational platforms for budget-friendly and mid-range 5G smartphones in most markets.
Final Thoughts
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 6400 represent two solid paths to 5G connectivity in the mid-range segment. The Snapdragon 695 brings a track record of reliable performance and efficiency, while the Dimensity 6400 counters with a more modern ISP capable of 4K video and slightly higher CPU clock speeds. The choice between devices powered by these platforms often comes down to specific user needs—such as a priority for video recording quality versus proven battery life—and the overall implementation by the phone manufacturer, which includes factors like software, cooling, and display quality.