Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 and Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 are processors designed for different market segments. The Snapdragon 860 is a higher-performance chip from an older premium tier, while the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 is a newer, more efficient processor built for budget-friendly devices. The key difference lies in their performance targets, with the 860 generally offering more raw power for demanding tasks.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1: Full Comparison
Introduction
Comparing processors like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 and Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 can be insightful for understanding the trade-offs in mobile technology. While they share the same brand, they belong to different generations and product tiers, making a direct comparison less about which is “better” and more about understanding their intended use. This article will break down their architectures, performance capabilities, feature sets, and typical use cases to help clarify where each chip excels and what kind of user experience they generally enable.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The fundamental design and construction of these chips set the stage for their performance and efficiency profiles.
- Snapdragon 860: This chip is based on a refreshed version of the older 7nm manufacturing process. Its CPU uses a tri-cluster design with a high-performance core, which was a hallmark of flagship-tier chips of its time.
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 1: As a newer chip, it utilizes a more advanced 6nm manufacturing process. This typically allows for better power efficiency and thermal management compared to older process nodes, even in a budget-oriented design.
The newer 6nm process of the 4 Gen 1 can offer efficiency advantages, while the 860’s architecture is geared towards higher peak performance from its era.
CPU and Performance
This is where the distinction in their target markets becomes most apparent.
- Snapdragon 860 CPU: Features a 1+3+4 core configuration (1x high-performance Kryo 485 Prime core, 3x performance cores, 4x efficiency cores). This setup is designed to handle intensive applications and gaming with higher sustained performance levels.
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 CPU: Employs a 2+6 core configuration (2x ARM Cortex-A78 performance cores, 6x ARM Cortex-A55 efficiency cores). It focuses on providing a smooth experience for everyday tasks, light gaming, and multitasking within its segment.
In benchmarks and real-world usage, the Snapdragon 860 typically demonstrates significantly higher raw CPU and GPU performance, a remnant of its premium origins. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 provides competent performance for standard apps and light games.
GPU and Gaming
The graphical processing unit (GPU) determines gaming capability and visual fluidity.
- Snapdragon 860 GPU: Uses the Adreno 640. This was a capable GPU in its generation, supporting high graphics settings in many mobile games and smoother frame rates.
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 GPU: Features the Adreno 619. This GPU is designed for efficient performance in the entry-level to mid-range segment, handling casual and moderately demanding games at lower to medium settings.
The Adreno 640 in the 860 generally offers a superior gaming experience for titles that require more graphical power.
Connectivity and Features
Modern features like 5G, camera support, and charging are often integrated into the chipset.
- 5G Modem: A major differentiator. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 includes an integrated Snapdragon X51 5G modem, making it a 5G-ready platform. The Snapdragon 860 lacks an integrated 5G modem and is typically paired with a 4G LTE modem.
- Camera Support: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 supports newer camera features and can handle higher-resolution single camera setups (up to 108MP). The Snapdragon 860 supports capable camera setups but may lack support for the very latest sensor technologies.
- Charging: The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 platform often supports Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ technology. The Snapdragon 860 platform typically supports Quick Charge 4.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 |
|---|---|---|
| Announced | Q1 2021 (Refresh of 2019’s 855+) | Q3 2022 |
| Process Technology | 7nm | 6nm |
| CPU Cores | Octa-core (1x 2.96 GHz + 3x 2.42 GHz + 4x 1.78 GHz) | Octa-core (2x 2.0 GHz Cortex-A78 + 6x 1.8 GHz Cortex-A55) |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Adreno 619 |
| 5G Modem | None (4G LTE only) | Integrated Snapdragon X51 5G |
| Max Display Support | QHD+ @ 60Hz / 4K @ 60Hz | FHD+ @ 120Hz |
| Camera ISP | Spectra 380 ISP Up to 192MP single / 25MP dual |
Qualcomm Spectra Up to 108MP single / 25MP+13MP dual |
| Video Capture | 4K HDR @ 60fps | 1080p @ 60fps |
| Charging Technology | Quick Charge 4+ | Quick Charge 4+ |
| Wi-Fi | Wi-Fi 6 ready | Wi-Fi 5 |
| Typical Device Tier | Premium mid-range / Performance-focused (at launch) | Budget to entry-level mid-range |
FAQ
Which processor is more powerful, Snapdragon 860 or 4 Gen 1?
The Snapdragon 860 is generally the more powerful chip in terms of raw CPU and GPU performance, as it was derived from a higher-tier platform. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 focuses on efficient performance with modern features like 5G.
Does the Snapdragon 860 support 5G?
No, the Snapdragon 860 does not have an integrated 5G modem. Devices using this chip typically offer 4G LTE connectivity. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 includes an integrated 5G modem.
Is the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 good for gaming?
The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 with its Adreno 619 GPU is suitable for casual gaming and can handle many popular titles at low to medium graphics settings. For more demanding games at higher settings, the Snapdragon 860’s Adreno 640 would typically provide a better experience.
Which chip is newer?
The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 was announced in 2022, making it a newer design. The Snapdragon 860 is a 2021 refresh of the 2019 Snapdragon 855+ architecture.
Which processor is more power-efficient?
Thanks to its more modern 6nm manufacturing process and architecture designed for the budget segment, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 typically offers better power efficiency for comparable everyday tasks, which can contribute to longer battery life in devices.
Final Thoughts
The comparison between the Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 and Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 highlights a classic technology trade-off: peak performance versus modern efficiency and features. The Snapdragon 860 represents a previous generation of high performance, still capable of handling demanding applications, but lacks contemporary essentials like integrated 5G. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, while not as powerful in raw benchmarks, brings a newer manufacturing process, 5G connectivity, and features tailored for the current budget smartphone market. The choice between them depends largely on whether a user prioritizes higher performance for tasks like gaming or values having newer connectivity standards and potentially better efficiency in a more affordable package.