Quick Answer
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 is a refreshed version of the older Snapdragon 855+ platform, offering flagship-level performance from a previous generation. The Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 is a newer, upper-mid-range chipset built on a more advanced manufacturing process, often providing a better balance of performance and power efficiency in its segment.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2: Full Comparison
Introduction
Comparing mobile processors can be complex, especially when they come from different generations and market segments. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 and the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 represent two distinct approaches: one is a re-released past flagship, while the other is a modern, high-performance mid-range chip. This comparison will break down their architectures, performance, features, and typical use cases to help clarify their positions in the market and what each brings to a device.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
The fundamental difference lies in how these chips are built. The Snapdragon 860 is essentially a rebadged Snapdragon 855+, which utilizes a 7nm manufacturing process. Its CPU configuration is based on the older Kryo 485 architecture.
In contrast, the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 is built on a more modern 4nm process. This generally allows for greater transistor density, which can lead to better performance and improved power efficiency. Its CPU uses the newer Cortex-X2, A710, and A510 cores in a 1+3+4 configuration.
- Snapdragon 860: 7nm process, older Kryo 485 CPU architecture.
- Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2: 4nm process, modern ARMv9 CPU cores (Cortex-X2, A710, A510).
CPU and Performance
CPU performance is a key differentiator. The Snapdragon 860 features an octa-core CPU with one high-performance Cortex-A76-based core, three more Cortex-A76-based cores, and four efficiency Cortex-A55 cores. This was a top-tier setup for its time.
The Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 introduces a more contemporary layout: one powerful Cortex-X2 core, three performance-oriented Cortex-A710 cores, and four efficiency Cortex-A510 cores. This architecture, combined with the 4nm process, typically results in higher peak performance and significantly better efficiency, meaning sustained performance under load is often more consistent.
- Snapdragon 860: Strong legacy flagship performance, but can consume more power under load.
- Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2: Higher single-core and multi-core performance in benchmarks, with generally better thermal management.
GPU and Gaming
For graphics, the Snapdragon 860 uses the Adreno 640 GPU. It is a capable GPU that can handle most mobile games at high settings, though it may struggle with the most demanding titles at maximum frame rates.
The Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 is equipped with the Adreno 725 GPU. This GPU offers a substantial generational leap in performance and supports more advanced graphics APIs and features. It typically provides a smoother experience in graphically intensive games and supports higher refresh rate gaming more consistently.
Connectivity and Modern Features
This is where the age gap becomes most apparent. The Snapdragon 860 integrates the Snapdragon X24 LTE modem, lacking native 5G support. 5G would require a separate, external modem, which is uncommon in devices using this chip.
The Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 has a fully integrated Snapdragon X62 5G modem, offering both sub-6GHz and mmWave 5G connectivity. It also supports newer standards like Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio, which are not present on the older platform.
- Snapdragon 860: 4G LTE-focused, older Bluetooth and Wi-Fi standards.
- Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2: Integrated 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio.
AI, Imaging, and Other Capabilities
The Snapdragon 860 uses the older Hexagon 690 DSP for AI processing. Its image signal processor (ISP) supports single cameras up to 192MP or dual 22MP cameras.
The Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 features a more advanced AI Engine with a newer Hexagon processor. Its Spectra ISP is more capable, supporting triple 18-bit ISPs for concurrent processing from three cameras, better computational photography, and video capture up to 4K HDR.
Comparison Table
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 | Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | 2021 (Refresh of 2019’s SD 855+) | 2023 |
| Process Node | 7nm | 4nm |
| CPU Architecture | 1x Kryo 485 (Cortex-A76) @ 2.96 GHz 3x Kryo 485 (Cortex-A76) @ 2.42 GHz 4x Kryo 485 (Cortex-A55) @ 1.78 GHz |
1x Cortex-X2 @ 2.91 GHz 3x Cortex-A710 @ 2.49 GHz 4x Cortex-A510 @ 1.8 GHz |
| GPU | Adreno 640 | Adreno 725 |
| AI Engine | Hexagon 690 DSP | 7th Gen Qualcomm AI Engine |
| ISP (Image Signal Processor) | Spectra 380 ISP Single camera: Up to 192MP Dual camera: Up to 22MP |
Qualcomm Spectra Triple 18-bit ISP Single camera: Up to 200MP Triple camera: Up to 36MP concurrent |
| Modem | Snapdragon X24 LTE (Cat. 24/22) No integrated 5G |
Snapdragon X62 5G (Integrated) Sub-6GHz & mmWave |
| Fast Charging Support | Qualcomm Quick Charge 4+ | Qualcomm Quick Charge 5 |
| Bluetooth / Wi-Fi | Bluetooth 5.0 / Wi-Fi 6 | Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio / Wi-Fi 6E |
| Display Support | Up to 4K @ 60Hz QHD+ @ 144Hz |
Up to 4K @ 60Hz QHD+ @ 120Hz |
FAQ
What is the main difference between the Snapdragon 860 and 7 Plus Gen 2?
The main differences are generational. The Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 is built on a newer 4nm process with a modern CPU architecture (ARMv9) and an integrated 5G modem, while the Snapdragon 860 is a refreshed 7nm flagship from 2019 without native 5G.
Which chipset is better for gaming?
The Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2, with its Adreno 725 GPU, typically offers superior gaming performance. It can handle more demanding titles at higher graphical settings and frame rates more consistently than the older Adreno 640 in the Snapdragon 860.
Does the Snapdragon 860 support 5G?
No, the Snapdragon 860 does not have an integrated 5G modem. It uses the Snapdragon X24 LTE modem. A device would need an additional, external 5G modem to offer 5G connectivity, which is rare.
Which processor is more power-efficient?
Generally, the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 is more power-efficient due to its advanced 4nm manufacturing process and modern CPU cores designed for better performance-per-watt. This can translate to longer battery life under similar usage conditions.
Final Thoughts
The comparison between the Qualcomm Snapdragon 860 and the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 highlights a clear technological evolution. The Snapdragon 860 remains a competent performer, representing the high-end capabilities of its time. However, the Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 demonstrates the benefits of newer architecture, offering significant improvements in CPU/GPU performance, power efficiency, and modern connectivity like integrated 5G. The choice between devices using these chips often comes down to the importance of having the latest features and connectivity versus accessing legacy flagship performance, typically at a different price point.