When selecting a smartphone, the processor is one of the most critical factors influencing its overall performance. It impacts everything from the smoothness of scrolling through apps to the speed at which web pages load and the fluidity of gaming experiences. However, understanding what each Snapdragon processor number signifies can be challenging. To help you navigate the ever-evolving landscape of smartphone processors, this detailed guide provides an in-depth comparison of Qualcomm Snapdragon processors as of mid-2024. This will assist you in identifying which smartphones offer the best performance and which ones are better avoided.

Realme 13 Series: A Case Study

To illustrate the significance of choosing the right processor, consider the recent release of the Realme 13 and Realme 13 Pro smartphones. Here’s a closer look at their specifications:

• Realme 13: Features a 6.67-inch FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 50MP rear camera, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of internal storage, and is powered by the Snapdragon 685 processor.
• Realme 13 Pro: Boasts a 6.7-inch FHD+ display with a 120Hz refresh rate, a 50MP rear camera, 8GB of RAM, 256GB of internal storage, and utilizes the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 processor.

At first glance, these smartphones might seem appealing due to their modern displays and substantial storage capacities. However, the processors they use play a crucial role in determining their overall performance and usability. The Snapdragon 685 is considered outdated by current standards, and while the Snapdragon 7s Gen 2 represents a slight improvement, it still does not match the performance of more recent processors. This example highlights the importance of understanding the processor’s capabilities and not just focusing on the smartphone’s outward features.

Snapdragon 2xx Series – Obsolete Technology

The Snapdragon 2xx series, which includes processors like the Snapdragon 210, 212, and similar models, is no longer relevant in 2024. These processors are outdated and do not meet the performance standards required for today’s smartphones. They lack the processing power and efficiency needed for a smooth user experience with modern applications and tasks. Consequently, smartphones equipped with processors from the Snapdragon 2xx series are best avoided if you are looking for a device that can handle current software and applications effectively.

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Snapdragon 4xx Series – Declining Performance

The Snapdragon 4xx series, encompassing models such as the Snapdragon 410, 420, 430, and 450, has also seen a decline in relevance. While the Snapdragon 450 was once considered a worthy successor to the Snapdragon 625, its single-core performance now falls short of contemporary expectations. The Snapdragon 460 is somewhat functional but relies heavily on the amount of RAM available in the device, which can affect its performance consistency.

In 2024, the minimum Snapdragon processor worth considering from this series is the Snapdragon 480. It provides a more acceptable level of performance for entry-level smartphones compared to its predecessors. However, processors from the newer Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 and 4 Gen 2 offer better efficiency and performance improvements. The Snapdragon 4 Gen 2, in particular, benefits from advancements in manufacturing technology but can suffer from inconsistencies depending on the manufacturer and the type of memory used in the device.

Snapdragon 6xx Series – Mostly Outdated

The Snapdragon 6xx series, including models like the Snapdragon 600, 610, 625, and 630, has largely become obsolete. These processors were once considered mid-range solutions but now fail to meet the performance standards of modern devices. The Snapdragon 650 and 660 were decent in their time, but they are now outdated and no longer suitable for current smartphone needs. The Snapdragon 680 and 685 also fall into this category and should be disregarded due to their lack of competitive performance.

The Snapdragon 690 was a reasonable choice in the past but is now overshadowed by newer processors from the fourth series. The Snapdragon 675 and 678 offer improved energy efficiency compared to older models but are still considered somewhat outdated by current standards.

The Snapdragon 695, while more contemporary, falls short due to its limited support for various video formats. For those interested in photography and video capabilities, it is better to consider higher-end Snapdragon processors that offer more advanced features and better overall performance.

The Snapdragon 6 Gen 1, though a recent release, offers only incremental improvements over its predecessors. The processor features slight changes in core configurations and performance, but it does not provide a significant upgrade from previous models.

Snapdragon 7xx Series – Mixed Results

The Snapdragon 7xx series includes several processors with varying levels of performance and relevance. Models such as the Snapdragon 710 and 712 are best avoided due to their outdated technology and poor positioning. The Snapdragon 720, 730, 732, and 735 were once considered mid-range options but have since become less competitive compared to newer alternatives. These processors are no longer suitable for those seeking a device with current performance capabilities.

The Snapdragon 765, 768, and 750 might appear promising on paper due to their Cortex A77 cores, but they are underwhelming in practice. They do not offer the performance or cost-efficiency of more recent processors like the Snapdragon 778.

The Snapdragon 780 and 782 are essentially refreshed versions of the 770 series, offering improved graphics performance. The Snapdragon 7 Gen 1, despite initial high hopes, does not provide significant improvements over the 780 series due to its choice of cores and overall architecture.

The Snapdragon 7 Gen 2 is particularly confusing, with its limited appeal and lack of substantial upgrades. It does not offer the performance boost expected from a newer generation. On the other hand, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 offers considerable improvements over its predecessors with enhanced core performance and graphics capabilities, making it a strong option in the mid-range segment.

Snapdragon 8xx Series – High-End Choices

The Snapdragon 8xx series represents the top-tier processors offered by Qualcomm. The Snapdragon 845, while somewhat dated, remains a viable option due to its competent graphics performance and overall capability. It consumes more power compared to newer models but can still provide a satisfactory user experience if the device does not feature a high-refresh-rate display.

The Snapdragon 855 and 855+ offer incremental improvements over the 845. The Snapdragon 855+ provides only slight enhancements compared to the original 855, and the difference may be difficult to notice in everyday use. The Snapdragon 865, although impressive at its launch, is now overshadowed by newer models in the Snapdragon 8xx series.

The Snapdragon 888 marked a significant advancement with its Cortex X1 core, offering substantial performance gains over previous generations. However, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and its Plus variant did not deliver the anticipated improvements, focusing more on power efficiency rather than performance.

The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 was designed with gaming in mind, featuring substantial enhancements in graphics performance. Despite its focus on gaming, the core configuration led to mixed results, with some limitations in processing power. The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 offers a more balanced choice for general use, though it is slightly less capable than the flagship models from the second generation.

Finally, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 represents Qualcomm’s latest and most powerful processor. It features a new core configuration and improved graphics performance, making it the top choice for high-performance smartphones in 2024. Although it is not a revolutionary upgrade, it provides significant performance gains and remains a solid choice for those seeking cutting-edge technology.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing a smartphone in 2024 involves a thorough understanding of the processor’s capabilities. Older processors from the Snapdragon 2xx, 4xx, and 6xx series are generally not recommended due to their outdated performance and technology. Instead, focus on the newer Snapdragon 7xx and 8xx series processors for better efficiency and performance. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 stands out as the best option for those seeking top-tier performance, while the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 offers a well-rounded choice for mid-range devices. By understanding these processor options and their relative strengths, you can make a more informed decision and select a smartphone that meets your performance expectations and needs.