Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 7020 are both 5G-capable chipsets designed for mid-range smartphones. The Dimensity 7020 generally offers a newer manufacturing process and slightly better CPU performance, while the Snapdragon 695 is known for its power efficiency and widespread adoption in many devices.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 vs MediaTek Dimensity 7020: Full Comparison
Introduction
Choosing a smartphone often involves looking at the processor, or chipset, which acts as the brain of the device. In the competitive mid-range segment, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 7020 are two popular options that enable 5G connectivity at a more accessible price point. This comparison breaks down their technical specifications, performance characteristics, and typical use cases to help you understand their differences and similarities. By examining aspects like CPU, GPU, connectivity, and efficiency, you can gain a clearer picture of what each chipset offers.
CPU and Manufacturing Process
The core computing power and efficiency of a chipset are largely defined by its CPU design and how it’s built.
- Snapdragon 695: Built on a 6nm manufacturing process. It features an octa-core CPU with two performance cores (Kryo 660 Gold based on Cortex-A78, clocked at 2.2 GHz) and six efficiency cores (Kryo 660 Silver based on Cortex-A55, clocked at 1.7 GHz).
- Dimensity 7020: Also utilizes a 6nm process. Its CPU configuration consists of two higher-performance Cortex-A78 cores (clocked at 2.5 GHz) and six power-efficient Cortex-A55 cores (clocked at 2.0 GHz).
Comparison: Both chipsets use a similar “2+6” core configuration and the same 6nm process, which is good for balancing performance and battery life. The Dimensity 7020 typically has a clock speed advantage on both its performance and efficiency cores, which can translate to slightly faster app loading and smoother multitasking in theory.
GPU and Gaming Performance
The Graphics Processing Unit (GPU) handles visual tasks, from the user interface to gaming graphics.
- Snapdragon 695: Uses the Adreno 619 GPU. This GPU is capable of handling popular mobile games at medium to high graphics settings, providing a smooth experience for most casual and some demanding titles.
- Dimensity 7020: Equipped with the IMG BXM-8-256 GPU. Performance is generally comparable to the Adreno 619, suitable for similar gaming scenarios. Real-world performance can also depend on the device manufacturer’s software optimization.
Comparison: Both GPUs are aimed at the same tier of performance. Users can expect a similar level of gaming capability from phones using either chipset, capable of running most games well, though not at the absolute highest settings reserved for flagship processors.
Connectivity and 5G
5G support is a key feature for both these chipsets, though their implementation differs.
- Snapdragon 695: Integrates the Snapdragon X51 5G Modem-RF System. It supports both sub-6 GHz 5G networks and mmWave (in specific variants), though sub-6 GHz is more common in most regions.
- Dimensity 7020: Features an integrated 5G modem supporting sub-6 GHz networks. It does not support mmWave 5G, which is fine for the vast majority of global 5G deployments that rely on sub-6 GHz frequencies.
Comparison: The primary difference lies in mmWave support, which is relevant only in certain areas and on specific carrier networks. For most users globally, the 5G experience on sub-6 GHz networks will be very similar.
AI, Camera, and Additional Features
These sections cover supporting technologies that enhance photography, AI tasks, and media.
- AI Processing: Both chips include dedicated AI processing units (the Hexagon 686 in the Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek’s APU) to accelerate tasks like camera scene detection and voice assistant functions.
- Camera Support: The Snapdragon 695 supports single cameras up to 108MP or dual 16MP cameras. The Dimensity 7020 supports single cameras up to 108MP as well. Both support various video recording formats, including 1080p and 4K.
- Display & Media: Both support FHD+ displays with high refresh rates (up to 120Hz), providing smooth scrolling. They also feature modern audio codecs for clear sound.
Comparison Table: Snapdragon 695 vs Dimensity 7020
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 | MediaTek Dimensity 7020 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Process | 6nm | 6nm |
| CPU Configuration | 2x Cortex-A78 @ 2.2 GHz 6x Cortex-A55 @ 1.7 GHz |
2x Cortex-A78 @ 2.5 GHz 6x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | IMG BXM-8-256 |
| 5G Modem | Integrated Snapdragon X51 (Sub-6 GHz & mmWave*) |
Integrated 5G Modem (Sub-6 GHz) |
| Max Display Support | FHD+ @ 120Hz | FHD+ @ 120Hz |
| Max Camera Support | Single: 108MP Dual: 16MP + 16MP |
Single: 108MP |
| Video Capture | 4K @ 30fps, 1080p @ 120fps | 2K @ 30fps, 1080p @ 60fps |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.2 | 5.3 |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 5 | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Typical Use Case | Efficient performance, reliable 5G, widely used in many brands. | Slightly higher CPU clock speeds, modern feature set for its tier. |
*mmWave support may be limited to specific regional variants of the chipset.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the Snapdragon 695 and Dimensity 7020?
The most notable differences are in the CPU clock speeds and 5G modem features. The Dimensity 7020 has higher clock speeds on both its performance and efficiency cores, while the Snapdragon 695 variant may include support for mmWave 5G in addition to sub-6 GHz.
Which chipset is better for gaming?
Both chipsets offer similar tier GPU performance (Adreno 619 vs IMG BXM-8-256). Gaming performance will be comparable, handling popular titles well at medium to high settings, though not at ultra settings. The actual experience can also depend on the phone’s cooling system and software optimizations.
Does the Dimensity 7020 support faster charging than the Snapdragon 695?
The chipset itself does not dictate charging speed; that is determined by the phone manufacturer’s choice of charging circuitry and technology. Phones using either chipset can support various fast charging standards.
Which one is more power-efficient?
Both are built on the same 6nm process, which is inherently efficient. The Snapdragon 695 has a reputation for good power management, but the overall battery life of a phone depends on many factors, including battery capacity, display, and software.
Final Thoughts
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and MediaTek Dimensity 7020 are closely matched competitors in the mid-range 5G chipset space. The Dimensity 7020 holds a slight theoretical advantage in CPU performance due to its higher clock speeds. The Snapdragon 695 is a proven platform with broad device adoption and potential for wider 5G band support in some variants. In practical terms, smartphones equipped with either processor will provide a similar day-to-day experience for most users, covering social media, streaming, moderate gaming, and 5G connectivity reliably. The choice often comes down to the specific implementation by the phone manufacturer, including other features like camera hardware, software, and overall device design.