Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 are both mobile platforms designed for mid-range devices, but they belong to different generations. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 typically offers superior CPU and GPU performance, more advanced camera capabilities, and faster connectivity options like Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. The Snapdragon 695, while older, remains a capable chipset for everyday tasks and efficient power consumption.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3: Full Comparison
Introduction
Choosing a smartphone often involves understanding the capabilities of its processor, which acts as the brain of the device. In the mid-range segment, Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 6 series is a popular choice. This comparison examines two chips from this family: the established Snapdragon 695 and the newer Snapdragon 6 Gen 3. We will analyze their technical specifications, performance in key areas, and feature sets to highlight their differences and help you understand which platform might be found in a device that suits your needs.
Performance & CPU Architecture
The core architecture and manufacturing process are fundamental to a chipset’s performance and efficiency.
- Snapdragon 695: Built on a 6nm process, it features an octa-core CPU with two Kryo 660 Gold (Cortex-A78-based) cores clocked at 2.2 GHz and six Kryo 660 Silver (Cortex-A55-based) cores at 1.7 GHz. This configuration was designed for a balance of power and efficiency.
- Snapdragon 6 Gen 3: Manufactured on a more advanced 4nm process, it uses a newer CPU layout: four high-performance Cortex-A78 cores (up to 2.3 GHz) and four efficiency Cortex-A55 cores (up to 2.0 GHz). The newer process and architecture generally lead to better performance per watt.
The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 typically provides a noticeable generational leap in CPU performance, resulting in smoother app launches and better multitasking.
Graphics & Gaming (GPU)
The GPU handles visual tasks, from the user interface to gaming graphics.
- Snapdragon 695: Utilizes the Adreno 619 GPU. It supports gaming at HD+ resolution with decent frame rates for popular titles, though often at lower graphical settings.
- Snapdragon 6 Gen 3: Equipped with the Adreno 720 GPU. This represents a significant upgrade, supporting smoother gameplay at higher resolutions and enabling more advanced graphical features. It is better suited for demanding 3D games.
The Adreno 720 in the 6 Gen 3 offers a substantially improved gaming and graphics rendering experience compared to the Adreno 619.
Camera & Multimedia
These platforms define the imaging capabilities of the devices they power.
- Snapdragon 695: Its Spectra 346T ISP can support a single camera up to 108MP, dual cameras up to 16MP+16MP, or a triple camera setup. It can record video at up to 1080p at 60fps or 720p at 120fps.
- Snapdragon 6 Gen 3: Features the newer Spectra Triple ISP. It supports a single camera up to 200MP, triple 12-bit ISPs for concurrent shooting from three cameras, and computational HDR video capture. Video recording is enhanced, supporting 4K HDR video at 30fps and 1080p slow-motion at 120fps.
The 6 Gen 3 provides a more versatile and powerful imaging system, enabling higher resolution sensors and more advanced computational photography features.
Connectivity & Modem
Connectivity features determine data speeds, call quality, and wireless capabilities.
- Snapdragon 695: Integrates the Snapdragon X51 5G Modem-RF System, supporting sub-6 GHz 5G. For wireless, it supports Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.2.
- Snapdragon 6 Gen 3: Includes the Snapdragon X35 5G Modem-RF System, which is Qualcomm’s first 5G modem designed for the mass-market tier, offering improved power efficiency. It supports faster Wi-Fi 6E and the newer Bluetooth 5.3 standard.
The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 offers more modern and efficient connectivity standards across the board.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 |
|---|---|---|
| Process Node | 6nm | 4nm |
| CPU Cores | 2x Cortex-A78 @ 2.2 GHz 6x Cortex-A55 @ 1.7 GHz |
4x Cortex-A78 @ 2.3 GHz 4x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz |
| GPU | Adreno 619 | Adreno 720 |
| ISP (Image Signal Processor) | Spectra 346T | Spectra Triple ISP |
| Max Camera Support | Single: 108MP | Single: 200MP |
| Video Capture | 1080p @ 60fps | 4K HDR @ 30fps |
| 5G Modem | Snapdragon X51 (Sub-6 GHz) | Snapdragon X35 (Sub-6 GHz) |
| Wi-Fi / Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 5 / Bluetooth 5.2 | Wi-Fi 6E / Bluetooth 5.3 |
| Fast Charging Support | Quick Charge 4+ | Quick Charge 4+ |
| Display Support | FHD+ @ 120Hz | FHD+ @ 120Hz |
FAQ
What is the main difference between Snapdragon 695 and 6 Gen 3?
The main differences are generational. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 is built on a more efficient 4nm process, has a more powerful CPU and GPU (Adreno 720), a significantly more advanced camera ISP supporting up to 200MP, and newer connectivity like Wi-Fi 6E.
Is the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 better for gaming?
Yes, typically. The Adreno 720 GPU in the Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 offers substantially better graphics performance than the Adreno 619 in the Snapdragon 695, enabling smoother gameplay at higher settings and resolutions.
Which chip is more power-efficient?
The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3, due to its newer 4nm manufacturing process, is generally expected to be more power-efficient under similar workloads, which can contribute to better battery life in devices.
Can a phone with Snapdragon 695 have a good camera?
Yes. While the 6 Gen 3’s ISP is more capable, the Snapdragon 695’s Spectra 346T ISP can support sensors up to 108MP. Final camera quality depends heavily on the manufacturer’s lens, sensor, and software tuning.
Final Thoughts
The comparison between the Qualcomm Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 clearly illustrates a generational improvement. The Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 brings meaningful upgrades in processing power, graphics capability, camera technology, and connectivity. Devices featuring this newer platform are likely to offer a more future-proof experience for demanding apps and games. The Snapdragon 695, while not as powerful, remains a competent chipset that can handle everyday tasks efficiently and may be found in more budget-conscious devices. The choice between devices using these platforms will ultimately depend on individual performance needs, feature priorities, and the overall implementation by the device manufacturer.