Processor qualcomm snapdragon 625 reviews. MediaTek Helio X20 or Snapdragon? Comparison of chipsets. Comparison with Xiaomi Surge S1

Qualcomm can safely be called the market leader in microprocessors for smartphones. Most leading brands use its products in their devices, and in terms of performance, even mid-range Snapdragons often surpass top-end chipsets from MediaTek.

The company classifies the Snapdragon processor lineup into 3 groups: 400 series – entry-level solutions for budget smartphones, 600 series – mid-level processors, 800 series – top-end chips for flagship devices.

In this article, we will figure out what is better than Snapdragon 625 vs 650, whether the difference between these processors is felt at all during everyday use of a smartphone, and which chipset is better for mobile gaming fans to choose.

Snapdragon 650 vs Snapdragon 625

The 650 Dragon has been on the market for quite a long time, it was introduced in February 2015 under the number 618, but was subsequently renamed and took the top position in the middle class. Snapdragon 625 is a chipset announced in mid-2016; the solution is new, but has already been well tested and has earned many positive reviews.

What's better? Let's start the comparison with basic technical characteristics. Snapdragon 650 – made using a 28 nm process technology and built on 6 cores, of which 2 high-performance Cortex A72 (1.8 GHz) and 4 energy-efficient Cortex A53 (1.4 GHz). The chipset is equipped with an Adreno 510 graphics accelerator, capable of delivering performance of about 180 gigaflops. The data exchange speed of the built-in LTE modem (X8) can reach up to 300 Mb/s, there is support for NFC, Bluetooth 4.1 and USB 2.0 interfaces, and fast charging is also possible.


Snapdragon 625 is an 8-core chip made using a more modern 14mm process technology, which provides better energy efficiency and less heat. It consists of 8 Cortex A53 cores, overclocked to a clock speed of 2.0 GHz. The chip is equipped with a weaker Adreno 506 graphics accelerator (performance up to 130 gigaflops), but it also benefits in terms of support for wireless interfaces, as it has a fresh LTE X9 modem and USB 3.0, and there is also support for NFC with fast charging.

The most objective way to compare 2 different processors is to compare them based on the results of synthetic tests. We have the following indicators:

As you can see, the 625 Dragon surpasses the 650 only in overall performance in GeekBench (the test does not take into account the graphics part), where 8 Cortex A-53 cores make themselves felt. However, in all tests related to 3D graphics, due to the more powerful video accelerator, the Snapdragon 650 has the upper hand. And this is precisely what is more important in practice.

The conclusion is simple - if you like to play resource-intensive 3D games, then it makes sense to choose a smartphone with the 650 Dragon, it will provide better gaming performance. The difference between the chipsets is not that big. It will be possible to launch and play the heaviest games without any problems on the Snapdragon 625, the differences are only in the ability to set the best graphics settings, have smaller FPS drawdowns in difficult scenes, and also not so often encounter various micro-freezes and stutters, which together determines the comfort of gaming.

During everyday use of the smartphone, the performance of both processors will be sufficient, and without playing games you will not notice the difference between them. Both chipsets have proven themselves well, including due to minimal susceptibility to heating and throttling.

To sum up the battle between Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 650, we give the championship belt to the 650-Dragon as the most powerful processor that can be found in relatively inexpensive smartphones today, but we recognize that the needs of the average user can be equally satisfied by both chipsets.

The best smartphones with Snapdragon 650

Xioami is known for its commitment to the Snapdragon 650, which has released many successful smartphones based on this chip, which have gained popularity due to their excellent price/quality ratio.

Xiaomi Redmi Note 3 Pro

RN3P is one of the best-selling smartphones in the world in 2016, which will not lose its consumer appeal in the foreseeable future. For 11 thousand rubles you will get a luxurious device with a powerful processor and 32/3 GB of memory, a large and high-quality 5.5'' IPS Full HD screen, 16/5 MP cameras and a capacious battery that lasts for 2-3 days of full use of the smartphone .

There are not so many disadvantages - mediocre image quality, lack of NFC and not the fastest fingerprint scanner. However, for its price, this is an excellent smartphone that we definitely recommend for purchase.

Xiaomi Mi Max

Mi Max is a huge phablet with a 6.44-inch screen that can boast excellent battery life (4850 mAh battery), performance (Snapdragon 650 + 32/3GB + Micro SD) and an affordable price. If the prospect of using a slightly reduced tablet as a phone doesn’t scare you, then you can take it - there aren’t many alternatives to the Mi Max.

Disadvantages - frankly bad cameras (however, it is possible to use camera2api for shooting in RAW, which slightly corrects the situation) and not the most attractive design. Price – from 12 thousand rubles.

The best smartphones with Snapdragon 625

A huge number of smartphones have been released on Snapdragon 625, which once again confirms the opinion that the chipset turned out to be extremely successful. The best in our opinion are.

Nubia Z11 Mini S

The Z11 Mini S is one of the best camera phones in the mid-price segment and is simply a beautiful gadget with balanced characteristics. The smartphone has a 5.2’’ Full HD IPS screen, 64/4 GB of expandable memory, a 23 MP main camera and a 13 MP front camera (there is 4K video recording), and a 3000 mAh battery.

Disadvantages - crude Nubia UI shell and mediocre earpiece. Price – from 17 thousand rubles.

Xiaomi Redmi 4 Prime

Redmi 4 Prime is average with a powerful processor and a high-quality FHD screen. The smartphone is made in a metal case with a fingerprint scanner, has 32/3 GB of memory + a slot for Micro-SD, and a thick 4010 mAh battery.

If you order from China, you can get a smartphone for $130, while our prices for the device start at 10 thousand rubles, which puts it on par with the Redmi Note 3 Pro. If the size of the RN3P scares you, then the Redmi 4 would be a great option to buy. In terms of the totality of characteristics, it has few competitors.

Huawei Nova

Huawei Nova is a balanced mid-level device with NFC working in Russia. Among the advantages are a high-quality 5’’ FHD display, good 12/8 MP cameras, interesting design and excellent build quality. Disadvantages - price (from 20 thousand), mediocre battery life (3020 mAh battery) and lack of fast charging.

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Comparison of Snapdragon 435 and 625 processors in terms of phone speed and battery life. Which is better for everyday needs, which smartphones are better for gaming?

The Snapdragon 435 and Snapdragon 625 processors are aimed at different segments of the mobile phone market. The first is installed in smartphones that can be safely, or with some reservations, as in the case of the LG Q6, classified as a budget segment. The second one appears more often in devices in the mid-price range. Comparing similar chipsets is quite easy, since the benchmarks make it clear who is in charge and which processor is better.

In the proposed comparison of Snapdragon 435 and 625, we will show the real balance of power in the benchmarks and explain what causes the existing difference. We will compare the participants based on the computing power of the central processing unit (CPU), the potential of the graphics adapter, as well as the efficiency of working with the battery. A comparison of phone autonomy will show how long Xiaomi smartphones with almost identical batteries but different processors will last on a single charge.

Snapdragon 435: characteristics

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 MSM8940 processor is a slightly improved version of the previous model - Snapdragon 430. There are no fundamental differences between the chipsets, the Americans simply replaced the modem with a newer one (Cat 13/7), leaving the core architecture and their clock frequency the same.

The Snapdragon 435 MSM8940 is built on eight reference Cortex-A53 cores. These are cores with low or medium processing power (depending on the clock speed). In the specifications of mobile phones you can often find the characteristic Snapdragon 435 octa-core. The term octa-core emphasizes that the processor is eight-core, although if the chip model is indicated, such a clarification is redundant.

From an architectural point of view, there are no differences from the S625. The Snapdragon 625 is an eight-core processor built on the same Cortex-A53 cores, but when comparing clock speeds we see a huge difference. If in the 625th Dragon the cores are overclocked to 2.0 GHz, then in the 435th model the maximum clock frequency is limited to 1.4 GHz. It turns out that the S435 will be about 30% slower than its opponent.

The difference in clock speeds is a direct consequence of the manufacturing process. The S625 chipset is made according to the 14 nm process technology. This means that it is less susceptible to heating and, accordingly, can remain stable when operating at higher frequencies. It is appropriate to note that it is critical heating under load that forces the processor to limit the operating frequency.

S435 is produced according to the standards of the now outdated 28 nm process technology. It is much more susceptible to heating, which is why the maximum clock frequency should be lower. This is what we see when directly comparing Snapdragon 625 and 435.

The technical process affects another important characteristic of the processor - its energy efficiency. The finer the technical process, the more economically the chipset consumes the battery, and the longer the mobile phone lasts on a single charge. The Snapdragon 625 uses a more refined manufacturing process, which automatically improves the autonomy of devices running on it. The proof of this will be in the second part of the article, when we move from theory to tests of mobile phones.

Graphics accelerators in Snapdragon 435 and 625 processors are of the same generation, although of different versions. One might assume that the performance in games would be comparable, but this is not the case, since the overall processing power of the 435 Dragon is significantly lower, and this affects the framerate. But it’s better not to rush to conclusions here, since when choosing a cheap gaming smartphone you have to take into account an additional factor - screen resolution. More about this below in the text.

So, the Snapdragon 435 MSM8940 processor has modest characteristics. It is inferior to its rival in the clock speed of the CPU cores and in the manufacturing process. Let's see how the lag affects the performance of smartphones running Snapdragon 435 and Snapdragon 625.

Snapdragon 435 or Snapdragon 625: which is better in benchmarks?

For comparison, in the benchmarks we selected 3-4 phones each with the processors we were interested in. It would be possible to take more devices, but this would not affect the overall picture in any way, so we decided not to load the diagrams with additional (and redundant in this case) information.

Snapdragon 435 phones unveiled

Their opponents today will be the following models on Snapdragon 625:

  • Moto G5s Plus

First, let's compare the processing power of the Snapdragon 625 and 435 CPU. This parameter affects the smoothness of the operating system, the speed of installation, operation and launch of applications, the stability of applications, as well as many other processes, including the speed of autofocus or HDR in the smartphone camera.

To compare CPUs, the GeekBench benchmark is traditionally used. The overall speed of the phone is assessed in the Antutu benchmark. The numbers are in front of you on the diagrams, and immediately below them is a short summary.

GeekBench 4.1 (multi-core)
GeekBench 4.1 (single-core)
Snapdragon 435 in AnTuTu 6

In GeekBench 4.1, the Snapdragon 625 is twice as fast as its competitor in multitasking mode. In single-core mode, the gap between processors is not so great, but it is impossible not to notice it. As for Antutu, here the overall picture emerges completely: in the Snapdragon 435 vs 625 pair, the processor with a higher number is 29-32% faster than the competitor, that is, as we predicted.

Gaming speed

Which devices can claim to be an inexpensive gaming smartphone - Snapdragon 435 or 625? The question may seem rhetorical at this point, but it's not that simple. Let's check the balance of power in the 3D benchmark GFX 3.1. Perhaps we will get a slightly different picture?

GFX 3.1 Manhattan (1080p offscreen)

When simulating on smartphones of the same resolution (1080p), the advantage of the 625 is beyond doubt. However, this is where an additional parameter comes into play in the form of screen resolution. Most S625 smartphones have a FullHD screen, which increases the load on the graphics adapter. Smartphones powered by Snapdragon 435 are more varied: there are both models with FullHD screens and devices with a lower resolution of 720 by 1280 pixels.

And here the picture changes. At HD resolution, the Snapdragon 435 is ahead of the competition. This does not mean that the processor is more powerful. Simply due to less load on the graphics adapter, the device can produce a higher and more stable frame rate in games.

GFX 3.1 Manhattan (onscreen)

It turns out that if you are looking for a budget (truly budget) gaming smartphone, and are willing to turn a blind eye to the lack of overall processing power, Snapdragon 435 phones may be the best choice, provided that they have an HD screen (720 x 1280 resolution) . Just in case, we have prepared a list of such devices.

Snapdragon 435 list of phones with HD screen:

  • Xiaomi Redmi 4X
  • Huawei Enjoy 6s
  • ZTE Nubia M2 Play
  • Oppo A57

These S435 smartphones are really inexpensive and can provide good frame rates in games. The only thing we should warn you about is that the autonomy of the device will leave much to be desired, and this will be discussed in the next part of the comparative review of processors.

Autonomy

If the autonomy of your smartphone comes first for you, you should definitely choose a device based on the S625. Proof of this is a comparison of the operating time on a single charge of two Xiaomi phones - Redmi 4X and Redmi 5 Plus. With the same battery capacity, Redmi 5 Plus on S625 lasts longer, and this despite a 6-inch screen with FullHD+ resolution. Even with the screen active, it consumes battery power more slowly, which perfectly illustrates the superiority of the 625 Dragon in this matter.

Autonomy of smartphones on Snapdragon 435 and 625.
Redmi 4X (S435)Redmi 5 Plus (S625)
Battery4100 mAh4000 mAh
Autonomy rating80 hours104 hours
3G calls19:38 22:16
Internet11:37 13:36
Video12:00 14:13

Comparison results between Snapdragon 435 and 625

So, in a pair of Snapdragon 435 vs 625 processors, which is better? Definitely better than Snapdragon 625. It is faster, smartphones with this processor have better battery life. But if you want to play games on the new phone, keep in mind that the S625 is installed in phones with a screen resolution of 1080 x 1920 pixels, while the Snapdragon 435 can be found in cheaper models with an HD display. A lower resolution will provide higher frame rates in games, although detail will have to be sacrificed in this situation. On the other hand, you can take the S625 model and reduce the resolution to HD in the settings.

The choice is always yours, but we hope that the material turned out to be useful and informative. Thank you for your attention, we are always glad to see you on the pages of Five-Inches!

Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 is one of the most popular mobile processors of 2017. The best representatives of mid-price smartphones, such as Xiaomi Redmi Note 4x, Xiaomi Mi A1, Motorola Moto G5 Plus, Lenovo P2, Asus ZenFone 3, Samsung Galaxy S7, Xiaomi Mi Max 2, work on it. India's best-selling smartphone, Redmi Note 4, also packs the Snapdragon 625. If you want to own one of these quality smartphones, you might be interested to know how much performance this processor delivers.

First, we'll take a look at the specs and compare the improvements this chip has made over its predecessor, the Snapdragon 617. After that, let's look at the benchmark results and compare the Snapdragon 625 with other processors. Next, we'll discuss performance, CPU performance in games, value for money, and energy efficiency. Results will be shown in the popular AnTuTu and Geekbench benchmarks based on smartphones running this processor. Comparisons will be made with Snapdragon 617, 630, 650, 652, 430, 435, 450, 820 and 821 models. Comparisons will also be made with MediaTek MT6750, MT6755, Helio X10, Helio P10, Helio P15, Helio X20 processors. The Samsung Exynos 7580, 7870 and Huawei Kirin 655 and 650 processors will not be forgotten either.

Specifications

  • Name: Snapdragon 625
  • Manufacturer: Qualcomm
  • Type: mobile system on a chip
  • Series: Snapdragon 600
  • Release date: 2nd quarter 2016
  • Process: 14nm FinFET
  • Processor architecture: 64 bit
  • Number of cores: 8
  • Configuration: 8 Cortex-A53 cores clocked at up to 2 GHz
  • GPU: Adreno 506
  • GPU frequency: 650 MHz
  • Memory type: single channel LPDDR3
  • Modem: Qualcomm X9 LTE
  • Bluetooth version: 4.1
  • USB: 3.0
  • Charging: Quick Charge 3.0
  • Digital Signal Processor: Hexagon 546
  • Image Processor: Dual-ISP
  • Maximum screen resolution: 1080p
  • Storage: eMMC 5.1
  • Camera resolution: up to 24 MP

CPU, GPU and memory

Qualcomm introduced the Snapdragon 625 on February 11, 2016, along with the Snapdragon 435 and 425 models. The code name of the processor is MSM8953. It became the first in the Snapdragon 600 line on the 14 nm FinFET process technology. The chip replaced the Snapdragon 617; a thinner technological process solved problems with overheating and throttling in previous generations of processors. Although ARM Cortex-A53 cores are still used, the frequency has increased by 500 MHz.

The next-generation Snapdragon 630 processor also runs on ARM Cortex-A53 cores. The Adreno 506 graphics chip ensures stable gaming performance even after extended use. Its clock speed is 650 MHz and it outputs images at 1080p resolution. Snapdragon 625 only supports single-channel LPDDR3 memory, which is quite enough for budget devices.

Modem, screen, camera and other functionality

The Qualcomm X9 LTE ​​modem is capable of providing incoming connection speeds of up to 300 Mbps and outgoing speeds of up to 150 Mbps. Multiple SIM cards and VoLTE are supported simultaneously. Thanks to this, the processor is capable of delivering 1080p resolution, but supports 4K video playback. The Bluetooth 4.1 communication standard and USB 3.0 interface are used. It also uses a Hexagon 546 digital signal processor with support for Qualcomm All-Ways Aware technology. There is support for the communication standard.

The eMMC 5.1 standard is used for permanent file storage; the maximum photo resolution can reach 24 megapixels. Quick Charge 3.0 technology is responsible for fast charging, although it depends only on the device manufacturer whether it will work or not. For example, the Redmi Note 4x smartphone does not support fast charging.

Benchmarks

Benchmarks mainly test the central and graphics processors, as well as RAM. The Snapdragon 625 isn't the fastest for a mid-range processor, but it is among the best optimized. The benchmark results aren't great, but in real-world performance it outperforms its competitors. Typically, 8-core processors with Cortex-A53 score 40-50 thousand points in the AnTuTu benchmark, but in this case, a higher clock speed and technological process allowed it to cross the 60 thousand point mark.

The graph shows the results of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X smartphone, Moto G5 Plus, Lenovo P2, Asus ZenFone 3 and Mi Max 2. All of them scored more than 60 thousand points. Mi Max 2 is in the lead, although the difference of 2-3 thousand points is considered insignificant. Even if the same device is tested twice, the results will be different. In this case, the results are 10-15 thousand points higher compared to devices based on Snapdragon 617 and MediaTek Helio X10, 20 thousand higher compared to Snapdragon 430 and 435. Devices based on Snapdragon 65X series processors (650, 652 and 653) are easily overcome mark of 75 thousand points due to a more powerful graphics processor and ARM Cortex-A72 computing cores.

Geekbench

Here the results of the Snapdragon 625 are also decent. In multi-threaded performance, Xiaomi Mi Max 2 leads with 4201 points, followed by Samsung Galaxy C7 in second place. In single-core performance, the average score is just above 850 points. The Galaxy C7 is in the lead here with a score of 875 points, followed by Xiaomi Mi Max 2 and Redmi Note 4x.

Performance

System-on-a-chip performance is determined primarily by the central processing unit. Cortex-A53 cores are not able to compete with Cortex-A72 and Cortex-A73, but this does not interfere with everyday work with a smartphone; you are unlikely to notice a difference in the speed of loading applications, scrolling through menus, etc. The 14nm FinFET process provides small performance gains and saves energy.

Energy efficiency

Along with energy savings, throttling and heat levels are reduced. This improves battery life and delivers higher frame rates in games and videos. It will be possible to play for a longer time.

Games

The Adreno 506 handles games at 1080p resolution without any problems. Of course, the graphics chip here cannot compare with Adreno 508 (Snapdragon 630), Adreno 510 (Snapdragon 650/652/653), Adreno 512 (Snapdragon 660), but its capabilities are sufficient for such a resolution.

Price/performance ratio

The cost of smartphones on this processor starts from $150 and can reach $400. Devices like the Redmi Note 4X provide better value for money compared to devices like the Samsung Galaxy C7 Pro. In each case, you need to carefully look at the device specifications. Models priced under $300 on this processor are the most attractive purchase.

Other options

For a mid-priced chip, there is a sufficient level of memory support, a modem, a signal processor and image processing, and fast charging. In 2018, even more capable devices should appear on Snapdragon 630 and 660 processors.

Grade

  • Performance: 4
  • Energy efficiency: 4.5
  • Games: 4
  • Value for money: 4
  • Other possibilities: 4

final grade: 4,4

Comparison with other processors

Comparison with Snapdragon 617

As mentioned above, Snapdragon 617 is the predecessor of Snapdragon 625. It uses a 28 nm process technology, the performance is lower due to the 1.5 GHz frequency. There are problems with throttling.

Comparison with Snapdragon 630

This processor is the successor to the Snapdragon 625, the process technology and the number of cores have not changed. The clock speed has increased to 2.2 GHz, resulting in slightly higher performance. It uses an improved Adreno 508 GPU, a faster X12 LTE modem, dual-channel LPDDR4 memory and support for Quick Charge 4.0 fast charging. This is a new processor and there are few devices on it yet.

Comparison with Snapdragon 650

It uses more powerful Cortex-A72 processing cores and a powerful Adreno 510 graphics chip, but uses the old 28 nm process technology. The processor becomes warm after prolonged use.

Snapdragon 652 comparison

This processor is similar to the Snapdragon 652, but has two additional Cortex-A72 cores. There are even more problems with throttling here, as a result of which some smartphones, like the Coolpad Cool 1, can heat up to 50 degrees after prolonged games. Therefore, Snapdragon 625 has the advantage of a thinner process technology.

Comparison with Snapdragon 430

This processor belongs to the budget Snapdragon 400 line. It uses eight Cortex-A53 cores with a frequency of 1.4 GHz. The modem and GPU are also weaker.

Comparison with Snapdragon 435

Reminiscent of the Snapdragon 430 processor, but with a better modem and other minor improvements. It is also made on a 28 nm process technology and cannot compete with 14 nm models.

Comparison with Snapdragon 450

Not long ago, Qualcomm introduced the Snapdragon 450 processor, which became the first in the Snapdragon 400 line on the 14 nm process technology. It resembles the Snapdragon 625, but has a lower clock speed, resulting in slightly lower performance.

This processor belongs to the major league, it uses Kryo computing cores and Adreno 530 GPU, an X12 LTE modem, and four-channel LPRRD4 memory. It is included in the flagship smartphones Samsung Galaxy S7 Edge, Xiaomi Mi 5 and OnePlus 3, among others. It is also made on a 14 nm process technology.

This chip resembles the Snapdragon 820, GPU performance has increased by 5%. It runs smartphones such as Xiaomi Mi 5s, OnePlus 3T, G6 and others. Naturally, Snapdragon 625 cannot compare with it.

Comparison with MediaTek MT6750

This processor also uses eight Cortex-A53 cores, but at a clock speed of 1.5 GHz. It is made on a 28 nm HPM process, so its energy efficiency is lower. This chip is included in the Vivo V5 and Oppo A59 smartphones.

Comparison with MediaTek Helio P10

This processor is also known as MT6755, it is also 8-core and also based on Cortex-A53. Among the smartphones on it are Lenovo K5 Note, Moto M, Oppo R9, Sony Xperia XA, Gionee M6. The maximum clock frequency is 2 GHz, the technological process is 28 nm HPC+. The developers claim that its energy efficiency is 30% higher compared to the HPC process technology, but it does not reach 14 nm FinFET. The Adreno 506 outperforms the Mali-T860 MP2 graphics chip in the Helio P10, so overall the Snapdragon 625 is better.

Comparison with MediaTek Helio P20 (MT6757)

An improved variant of the Helio P10 with a clock speed of 2.3 GHz, a more advanced GPU and lower power consumption thanks to the 16 nm FFC process technology. Among the smartphones on this processor are Meizu ME2 and Sony Xperia XA1. There is support for dual-channel LPDDR4 memory, the Mali-T880 MP2 graphics chip is slightly weaker compared to the Adreno 506. The central processor is slightly faster, but the power consumption of the Snapdragon 625 is lower. In terms of optimization, the Qualcomm processor is also the leader.

Comparison with MediaTek Helio X10 (MT6795)

This processor belongs to the flagship series of the Chinese manufacturer with eight Cortex-A53 cores with a frequency of 2.2 GHz. It uses 28 nm HPM process technology, PowerVR G6200 graphics chip and dual-channel LPDDR3 memory. The GPU lags behind the Snapdragon 625 in its capabilities.

Comparison with MediaTek Helio X20

10-core processor with three types of cores: two Cortex-A72 2.2 GHz, four Cortex-A53 1.85 GHz and four Cortex-A53 1.4 GHz. Uses 20 nm HPM process technology and Mali-T880 MP4 graphics, dual-channel LPDDR3 memory. On paper it's better than the Snapdragon 625, but in reality it's not. Like all MediaTek processors, this one cannot boast of a high level of optimization; the presence of ten cores further complicates the situation. In tests of the Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 smartphone, it lags behind the Redmi Note 4x.

Comparison with Samsung Exynos 7580

8-core Cortex-A53 processor with a frequency of 1.6 GHz. The production uses a 28 nm process technology, Mali-T720 MP2 graphics, and LPDDR3 memory. This processor powers the Samsung Galaxy On8 and Galaxy J7. This processor is clearly weaker compared to the Snapdragon 625.

Comparison with Samsung Exynos 7870

This chip is similar in performance to the Snapdragon 625 and is also made on the 14 nm FinFET process technology on the same eight Cortex-A53 cores, but their frequency is only 1.6 GHz. Mali-T830 graphics and LPDDR3 memory are used. This processor powers the Samsung Galaxy J7 Prime. Due to the higher clock speed, Snapdragon 625 wins slightly.

Comparison with HiSilicon Kirin 650

Huawei octa-core Cortex-A53 processor with a frequency of 2 GHz. Mali-T830 MP2 graphics and LPDDR3 memory are used. The energy efficiency of the 16 nm FinFET process is almost as good as 14 nm FinFET. This processor can be found in Huawei Honor 7 Lite. It is only slightly inferior to the Snapdragon 625.

Comparison with HiSilicon Kirin 655

Used in Huawei Honor 6X and Honor 8 Lite smartphones. Here, the same eight Cortex-A53 cores have a frequency of 2.1 GHz on a 16 nm FinFET process technology. The Mali-T830 MP2 graphics chip is also used and again the Snapdragon 625 is slightly better.

Comparison with Xiaomi Surge S1

The first processor produced by Xiaomi and the Xiaomi Mi 5c smartphone runs on it. It uses a powerful Mali-T860 MP4 graphics chip and dual-channel LPDDR3 memory. The processor is 8-core with two types of cores, the frequency reaches 2.2 GHz. The disadvantage of this system on a chip is the use of 28 nm HPC process technology. Thus, it is more powerful, but consumes more power compared to the Snapdragon 625.

Conclusion

After such a detailed comparison, you can understand why many smartphone manufacturers prefer the Snapdragon 625 in the mid-range segment. The Snapdragon 630 that replaced it is already available, but it will take some time before devices based on it are widely distributed. There should be more by the end of the year.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 425, 435 and 625 - new mobile processors with current capabilities

The Qualcomm Snapdragon mobile processor lineup has been expanded with three new models: Qualcomm Snapdragon 425, Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 and Qualcomm Snapdragon 625, which will bring enhanced functionality, increased performance and longer battery life to smartphones and tablets.

The least productive and most affordable of them is the 28nm Qualcomm Snapdragon 425, equipped with 4 ARM Cortex-A53 processor cores (1.4 GHz) and a Qualcomm Adreno 308 graphics adapter. It can be paired with LPDDR3-667 MHz RAM and eMMC 5.1 drive, support 16-megapixel cameras and screens with a resolution of 1280 x 720.

The Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 model is also based on the 28nm ARM Cortex-A53 design, but is already characterized by support for 8 processor cores and a more powerful graphics adapter (Qualcomm Adreno 505). It is also capable of working in tandem with LPDDR3-800 RAM, internal eMMC 5.1 drives and external SD 3.0 (UHS-I) memory cards.

In turn, Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 is built using a 14nm process technology. Its 8 ARM Cortex-A53 processor cores can operate at over 2 GHz when paired with Qualcomm Adreno 506 graphics and LPDDR3-933 MHz RAM. As a result, it can support 24-megapixel cameras and screens with a resolution of 1920 x 1200. If we compare the energy efficiency of the new product with its predecessor (Qualcomm Snapdragon 617), it has increased by 35%.

Comparison table of technical specifications of Qualcomm Snapdragon 425, 435 and 625 mobile processors:

Technical process, nm

Number and type of processor cores

4 x ARM Cortex-A53

8 x ARM Cortex-A53

8 x ARM Cortex-A53

Maximum clock frequency, GHz

Graphics core

Qualcomm Adreno 308 (OpenGL ES 3.0)

Qualcomm Adreno 505 (OpenGL ES 3.1+)

Qualcomm Adreno 506 (OpenGL ES 3.1+)

RAM support, MHz

Drive support

eMMC 5.1
SD 3.0 (UHS-I)

eMMC 5.1
SD 3.0 (UHS-I)

DSP processor

Qualcomm Hexagon DSP

Maximum camera resolution, MP

16

21
Dual Image Sensor Processor (ISP)

24
Dual Image Sensor Processor (ISP)

Maximum video camera shooting format

Maximum screen resolution

Maximum data reception/transmission speed in the LTE network, Mbit/s

Supported Wi-Fi standard

Today we will conduct a detailed comparison of Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 vs 435 to make it easier for you to identify the differences between the Xaiomi Redmi Note 4X and Redmi 4 (X in some countries). This question worries many buyers, since both of these devices provide the perfect balance of performance and autonomy. Although in fact they are representatives of two different categories - budget and medium. Thus, Snapdragon 625 is often used in smartphones with prices starting from $200 (Samsung Galaxy C7, Moto G5+ and others). But Snapdragon 435 is completely focused on the budget segment and is quite often found in any Chinese state-of-the-art smartphone for almost $100.

In other words, the 600 series of Snapdragon chips is designed for devices with average technical characteristics. While the chips from the Snapdragon 400 series are entirely dedicated to cheap smartphones, the quality of which depends entirely on the greed of the manufacturer. Well, let's start our comparison of Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 vs 435 with a short description of the SoCs we are looking for.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 625: technical specifications

  • 8 core processor (8×2.0 GHz Cortex-A53)
  • 14nm FinFET process technology
  • Adreno 506 GPU
  • LPDDR3 RAM (single channel)
  • Quick Charge 3.0 support
  • Qualcomm X9 LTE ​​modem
  • Hexagon 546 DSP

The Snapdragon 625 became available in the second quarter of 2016 and is now used in a large number of popular mid-range devices. Its notable feature was the 14nm FinFET process technology, which first appeared in the 600 series of chips. This innovation made it possible to significantly increase the overall performance of the chip and at the same time raise energy saving to a new level. After the resounding success of the Snapdragon 625, Qualcomm introduced new chips. They also use a 14nm process technology, but thanks to various improvements they can easily compete with last year's flagship SoCs.

The SD 625 has an octa-core (Cortex-A53) processor running at a maximum clock speed of 2.0 GHz and a new Adreno 506 graphics accelerator that provides decent gaming performance. Unfortunately, the chip only supports single-channel LPDDR3 memory. The installed modem is completely similar to that found in the SD 435 – Qualcomm X9 LTE. Based on this, you can expect identical connection and operation speeds on different networks. Hexagon 546 is used as a digital signal processor.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 435: technical specifications

  • 8 core processor (8×1.4 GHz Cortex-A53)
  • 28nm process technology
  • Adreno 505 GPU
  • RAM LPDDR3 (single channel)‎
  • Quick Charge 3.0 support
  • Qualcomm X9 LTE ​​modem
  • Hexagon 536 DSP

If you do a quick comparison of both chips in terms of technical characteristics, you will find that they are almost similar. At first glance, the only noticeable differences are the technical process and slightly reduced characteristics of the processor and graphics accelerator. However, not all so simple. Lowering the maximum clock speed eliminates the problems (excessive heat generation and unreasonably high battery consumption) that appear at high frequencies in the 28nm process. Of course, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 435 will not be able to achieve the performance of the SD 625, but precisely selected technical characteristics are the key to the long-term service of this chip. In other words, the company acted very wisely by choosing a balance between power and energy efficiency.

The Snapdragon 435 has a good Adreno 505 graphics accelerator. This allows it to cope well with any 3D games at an average graphics level in 720p resolution. As we already said, a Qualcomm X9 LTE ​​modem is installed here. The Hexagon 536 digital signal processor is slightly inferior to its Snapdragon 625 brother, but it is definitely the best ultra-budget solution of past years. Why past? But because not so long ago Qualcomm presented its new budget chip - . We have already talked about it, so follow the link for a detailed look.

First, let's check the performance in the popular synthetic tests GeekBench and Antutu. Still, such tests have not yet gone out of fashion, since they allow you to quickly form a generalized opinion about the installed hardware. Then we’ll evaluate the overall and gaming performance, measure the efficiency of using battery power, look at the installed modem and, of course, talk about its attractiveness in terms of price.

Benchmarks

We remind you that we are comparing Xiaomi Redmi Note 4X and Redmi 4 (X in some countries). Both smartphones run on MIUI and passed the tests immediately after disabling all background applications (except system ones) and rebooting. Our results and yours may vary significantly. This doesn't mean much, so don't panic.

AnTuTu points:

Snapdragon 625 – 62,679
Snapdragon 435 – 42,619

Geekbench scores:

Snapdragon 625 – 833 / 3059
Snapdragon 435 – 640 / 2041

Comparing these numbers, it seems pretty obvious that the SD 625 wins by a significant margin. Both in the single-core test and in the multi-core test. It also outperforms SD 435 in AnTuTu. But do these results reflect the actual performance of the SoC? Let's continue with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 vs 435 comparison to find out more.

Overall Performance

Overall, both chips perform quite well on a day-to-day basis without causing the user to experience any issues. Their processors use Cortex-A53, but the SD 625 cores can operate at higher frequencies, which gives it a good advantage in processing heavy graphics. But when interacting with the user interface of the operating system, you will not notice any obvious differences in the response speed of applications or the smoothness of animation. As we said, only gaming enthusiasts will be able to truly feel the difference in the performance of these SoCs. Thanks to the 14nm process technology and increased maximum frequency, Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 produces more FPS in the same 3D benchmark tests and popular high-demand games of recent years.

Snapdragon 625: 9/10
Snapdragon 435: 8/10

Gaming Performance

Smartphones with a 625 chip often use a 1080p display. The desired combination produces performance similar to any other device with Snapdragon 435, which uses a screen with a resolution of 720x1280. Here Redmi Note 4X and Redmi 4 show approximately the same performance in games at an average graphics level. Obviously, the first one behaves somewhat more lively even at maximum, while Redmi 4 with similar settings experiences obvious drops in frame rate. The differences between the Adreno 506 and Adreno 505 GPUs are smoothed out thanks to the display resolution. Although, in a specific comparison, the first one turns out to be more powerful.

Snapdragon 625: 9/10
Snapdragon 435: 8.5/10

Energy efficiency

Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 is manufactured using the 14nm FinFET process, so it consumes less power while delivering greater performance. This means that this SoC heats up less at peak load than the Snapdragon 435. In addition, you can expect improved battery life from a mid-priced chip. Against the backdrop of the stated advantages, the SD 435 can only counter with a lower maximum frequency, which ensures reliable operation without overheating, which entails a decrease in performance. Thus, in terms of energy efficiency, the representative of the 400 series is slightly inferior to the SD 625.

Snapdragon 625: 10/10
Snapdragon 435: 8/10

Modem

Both SoCs use the same modem – Qualcomm X9 LTE. It develops throughput up to 300 Mb/s on the downlink and up to 150 Mb/s on the uplink. The speed provided is more than enough for any everyday tasks. From surfing the Internet to maintaining torrent distributions.

Snapdragon 625: 9/10
Snapdragon 435: 9/10

Price/performance ratio

Our comparison of Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 vs 435 has almost come to an end and now we will find out which chip is the most attractive in terms of price/power. The first SoC is actively used in mid-range smartphones, and the second is often found in the budget segment. For the money, they provide the best performance among the competition. However, the Snapdragon 435 offers most of the good qualities of its brother at just 2/3 the price of the cheapest device in the mid-price category. And this means that he gets extra points on this point.

Snapdragon 625: 9/10
Snapdragon 435: 9.5/10

Overall rating

Having finished with the comparison points, we calculated the overall score for each chip. Visualization, expressed in the form of numbers, makes it easier to assess the overall quality of each chipset.

Snapdragon 625: 9.2/10
Snapdragon 435: 8.6/10

Comparison Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 vs 435 – conclusions

Having examined each chip in detail, we can say with confidence that Snapdragon 625 is better than SD 435. A banal statement that will still help some people decide between Redmi Note 4X and Redmi 4. Meanwhile, it would be wrong to think that Snapdragon 435 is a complete loser. to his brother from the older series. No, the only noticeable differences are visible only in performance and autonomy tests. Therefore, you should not refuse to purchase any high-quality device with SD 435. After all, in any case you will not be disappointed. It's also worth noting that compared to the Snapdragon 650/652, the 14nm process makes the SD 625 more attractive in terms of power efficiency and stable performance. Below we have provided a short list of devices that use the reviewed chips.

Smartphones with Snapdragon 625:

Smartphones with Snapdragon 435:


OPPO A57
Huawei Y7 Prime