Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 is a newer mid-range mobile platform that generally offers improved CPU and GPU performance over the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2. The key upgrades include a more modern 4nm manufacturing process, a faster prime CPU core, and support for newer camera and connectivity technologies.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2: Full Comparison
Introduction
When evaluating mid-range smartphones, the chipset is a central component that influences performance, efficiency, and feature support. This comparison examines the differences between the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 and its predecessor, the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2. Understanding the specifications and capabilities of each platform can help clarify what to expect from devices powered by these processors, from everyday tasks to gaming and photography.
CPU & Manufacturing Process
The core architecture and the process node are fundamental to a chipset’s performance and power efficiency.
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 3: Built on a 4nm manufacturing process. Its CPU configuration typically features 1 high-performance Cortex-A78 core, 4 balanced Cortex-A78 cores, and 3 efficiency Cortex-A55 cores.
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 2: Fabricated on a 4nm process as well. It uses a CPU setup with 2 high-performance Cortex-A78 cores, 6 efficiency Cortex-A55 cores, and lacks the mid-tier balanced cores found in the Gen 3.
The move to a “1+4+3” tri-cluster design in the Gen 3 can offer more granular power management for varied workloads compared to the Gen 2’s “2+6” setup.
GPU & Gaming Performance
The GPU handles graphics rendering for games, UI animations, and other visual tasks.
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 3: Utilizes an Adreno 735 GPU. This newer GPU generally provides better performance in graphics-intensive applications and supports more advanced gaming features.
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 2: Equipped with an Adreno 710 GPU. While capable for mainstream mobile gaming, it typically operates at lower peak performance levels compared to the Adreno 735.
The Adreno 735 in the Gen 3 is designed to deliver smoother frame rates at higher graphical settings in many popular titles.
Camera & AI Capabilities
The image signal processor (ISP) and AI engine define the computational photography and on-device AI features.
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 3: Features a triple 18-bit Spectra ISP. It can support camera systems up to 200MP for single shots, 64MP with zero shutter lag, or dual 32MP cameras. Its AI engine includes a dedicated sensing hub for always-on features.
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 2: Also includes a triple 18-bit Spectra ISP. It supports camera systems up to 200MP, 64MP with zero shutter lag, or dual 25MP cameras. Its AI capabilities are powered by the 7th Gen Qualcomm AI Engine.
The Gen 3’s ISP allows for slightly higher-resolution dual-camera capture, and its newer AI engine may enable more efficient processing for features like photo enhancement and voice assistants.
Connectivity & 5G
Connectivity defines how the device connects to networks, peripherals, and the internet.
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 3: Integrates the Snapdragon X63 5G Modem-RF System, supporting both sub-6 GHz and mmWave 5G. It also features FastConnect 6700 for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2.
- Snapdragon 7s Gen 2: Integrates the Snapdragon X62 5G Modem-RF System, supporting sub-6 GHz and mmWave 5G. It uses FastConnect 6700 for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 as well.
The primary upgrade here is the modem, with the X63 in the Gen 3 offering potential improvements in power efficiency and 5G performance consistency.
Comparison Table: Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 vs 7s Gen 2
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Process | 4nm | 4nm |
| CPU Architecture | 1x Cortex-A78 (Prime) @ up to 2.4 GHz 4x Cortex-A78 (Performance) @ up to 2.4 GHz 3x Cortex-A55 (Efficiency) @ up to 1.95 GHz |
2x Cortex-A78 (Performance) @ up to 2.4 GHz 6x Cortex-A55 (Efficiency) @ up to 1.95 GHz |
| GPU | Adreno 735 | Adreno 710 |
| Camera ISP | Triple 18-bit Spectra ISP Up to 200MP single shot, 64MP+32MP dual |
Triple 18-bit Spectra ISP Up to 200MP single shot, 64MP+25MP dual |
| AI Engine | Qualcomm AI Engine with Sensing Hub | 7th Gen Qualcomm AI Engine |
| 5G Modem | Snapdragon X63 (Integrated) Sub-6 GHz, mmWave |
Snapdragon X62 (Integrated) Sub-6 GHz, mmWave |
| Wi-Fi / Bluetooth | FastConnect 6700 Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
FastConnect 6700 Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 |
| Display Support | Up to FHD+ @ 144Hz | Up to FHD+ @ 144Hz |
| Charging Technology | Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ | Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ |
FAQ
What is the main difference between Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 and 7s Gen 2?
The main differences lie in the CPU cluster design and the GPU. The 7s Gen 3 uses a “1+4+3” CPU configuration for potentially better multi-threaded performance management and includes a more powerful Adreno 735 GPU.
Which chipset is better for gaming, the 7s Gen 3 or 7s Gen 2?
The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3, with its Adreno 735 GPU, generally provides better graphics performance and can handle more demanding games at higher settings compared to the Adreno 710 in the 7s Gen 2.
Do both chips support 5G connectivity?
Yes, both platforms feature integrated 5G modems. The 7s Gen 3 uses the Snapdragon X63 modem, while the 7s Gen 2 uses the X62, both supporting sub-6 GHz and mmWave 5G frequencies in most regions.
Is there a significant camera difference between the two?
Both use a triple 18-bit ISP and support high-resolution sensors. A key specification difference is that the 7s Gen 3 supports dual camera capture at 64MP+32MP, whereas the 7s Gen 2 supports up to 64MP+25MP.
Final Thoughts
The Snapdragon 7s Gen 3 represents a logical, iterative update over the 7s Gen 2, focusing on refining CPU performance distribution and boosting GPU capabilities. The improvements in the modem and camera ISP support are also notable. For users whose priorities lean towards sustained performance in applications and gaming, the Gen 3 typically holds an advantage. The choice between devices featuring these chipsets will also depend on other factors like device design, software, and battery implementation, making it important to consider the complete smartphone package.