Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 and MediaTek Dimensity 8100 are flagship-tier mobile platforms from different generations. The Snapdragon 855, released in 2019, is built on a 7nm process, while the Dimensity 8100, launched in 2022, uses a more advanced 5nm process, typically offering better power efficiency and sustained performance.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 vs MediaTek Dimensity 8100: Full Comparison
Introduction
Comparing mobile processors like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 and the MediaTek Dimensity 8100 provides insight into how chipset technology has evolved over a few years. While the Snapdragon 855 was a leading flagship platform for 2019 smartphones, the Dimensity 8100 arrived later as a high-performance option for premium mid-range and flagship devices. This analysis will break down their architectures, performance profiles, and feature sets to highlight their key differences and similarities, helping you understand their respective strengths.
Manufacturing Process and CPU Architecture
The fundamental difference lies in their fabrication and core design, which directly impacts efficiency and heat management.
- Snapdragon 855: Manufactured using a 7nm process. Its CPU configuration is 1+3+4: one high-performance Cortex-A76 core, three more Cortex-A76 cores, and four efficiency Cortex-A55 cores.
- Dimensity 8100: Built on a more modern 5nm process. It features a 4+4 CPU setup: four high-performance Cortex-A78 cores and four efficiency Cortex-A55 cores. The newer process and architecture generally lead to better power efficiency.
Graphics and Gaming Performance
Both chipsets are capable of handling demanding games, but they use different GPU technologies.
- Snapdragon 855: Utilizes the Adreno 640 GPU. At its release, it offered strong graphics performance for high-fidelity mobile gaming.
- Dimensity 8100: Equipped with the ARM Mali-G610 MC6 GPU. Thanks to its efficient architecture, it is known for delivering stable frame rates with lower power consumption and heat generation during extended gaming sessions.
Connectivity and Modem
This is one of the most significant generational divides between the two platforms.
- Snapdragon 855: Typically paired with the external Snapdragon X50 modem, which provides 5G connectivity. However, this early 5G implementation is not as integrated or power-efficient as later solutions.
- Dimensity 8100: Features an integrated 5G modem (MediaTek M80). This integrated design supports both sub-6GHz 5G networks and offers improvements in power efficiency compared to external modem designs.
AI, Camera, and Multimedia Support
Both processors include dedicated hardware for AI tasks and support high-resolution cameras, but with different capabilities.
- Snapdragon 855: Uses the Hexagon 690 DSP for AI processing. Its Spectra 380 ISP can handle a single camera up to 192MP or dual 22MP cameras simultaneously.
- Dimensity 8100: Leverages MediaTek’s APU 580 for AI tasks. Its Imagiq 780 ISP supports very high-resolution sensors, including a single 200MP camera, and can process data from multiple cameras at once for features like HDR video.
Comparison Table: Snapdragon 855 vs Dimensity 8100
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 | MediaTek Dimensity 8100 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Year | 2019 | 2022 |
| Process Technology | 7nm | 5nm (TSMC) |
| CPU Cores | 1x Cortex-A76 @ 2.84 GHz 3x Cortex-A76 @ 2.42 GHz 4x Cortex-A55 @ 1.80 GHz |
4x Cortex-A78 @ 2.85 GHz 4x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | ARM Mali-G610 MC6 |
| 5G Modem | External Snapdragon X50 (5G) | Integrated MediaTek M80 (5G Sub-6) |
| AI Processing | Hexagon 690 DSP | MediaTek APU 580 |
| Max Display Support | 4K @ 60Hz / QHD+ @ 144Hz | WQHD+ @ 120Hz / FHD+ @ 168Hz |
| Camera ISP | Spectra 380 ISP Single cam: Up to 192MP |
Imagiq 780 ISP Single cam: Up to 200MP |
| Video Capture | 4K HDR @ 60fps | 4K HDR @ 60fps |
| Memory Support | LPDDR4X @ 2133MHz | LPDDR5 @ 3200MHz |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.3 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the Snapdragon 855 and Dimensity 8100?
The most notable differences are the manufacturing process (7nm vs 5nm), the integrated 5G modem in the Dimensity 8100, and the CPU architecture. The Dimensity 8100’s newer design generally offers better power efficiency.
Which processor is better for gaming?
Both are capable of high-end gaming. The Dimensity 8100, with its efficient 5nm process and Mali-G610 GPU, often demonstrates an advantage in sustained performance and thermal management during long sessions.
Does the Snapdragon 855 support 5G?
Yes, but typically through an external modem (the Snapdragon X50). This is different from the fully integrated 5G modem found in the Dimensity 8100.
Which chipset has better battery efficiency?
Due to its more advanced 5nm manufacturing process and integrated modem design, the MediaTek Dimensity 8100 typically has an advantage in power efficiency under similar workloads.
Final Thoughts
The comparison between the Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 and MediaTek Dimensity 8100 illustrates a clear generational leap in mobile chipset design. The Snapdragon 855 was a powerful flagship solution in its time, while the Dimensity 8100 benefits from several years of technological progress, particularly in process node efficiency and integrated 5G connectivity. The choice between devices featuring these chipsets often comes down to the specific implementation by the phone manufacturer, the age of the device, and the importance of features like modern 5G support and sustained performance efficiency to the user.