Qualcomm is preparing to introduce the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and 7+ Gen 1 chip, utilizing the TSMC 4nm process. However, leaked details indicate that it might not surpass its forerunner, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2.
The All New Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and Snapdragon 7+ Gen 1
The Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 follows a 1+3+4 architecture, mirroring its predecessor. Its CPU comprises a 1×2.63GHz big core, 3×2.4GHz, and 4×1.8GHz cores, driven by an Arm Cortex-A715 with an integrated Adreno 720 GPU.
In contrast, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 boasts a CPU with 1×2.91GHz big core, 3×2.49GHz, and 4×1.8GHz cores, accompanied by an integrated Adreno 725 GPU. It’s evident that the Snapdragon 7 Gen3’s specifications are slightly inferior in terms of performance compared to the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2.
In addition, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 1, also built on the 4nm TSMC process, boasts a CPU configuration of 1 × 2.92GHz Cortex X2, 3 × 2.5GHz A710, and 4 × 1.8GHz A510 cores, accompanied by an Adreno 725 GPU. This predecessor to the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 and the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 exhibits a potent processing setup.
Comparing the three generations, the evolution from the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 1 to the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 and subsequently to the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 reflects both advancements and strategic shifts in Qualcomm’s approach to mid-range processors. Despite potential variations in raw power, the use of the 4nm TSMC process remains a common thread, promising enhanced energy efficiency and overall performance across these iterations.
The Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2 has seen limited adoption in models like the Redmi Note 12 Turbo and the Realme GT Neo5 SE, mainly due to its higher cost. Consequently, not many consumers have experienced its capabilities.
With the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3, Qualcomm seems to have strategically prioritized efficiency and cost-effectiveness. The chip is positioned as a mid-range processor rather than a sub-flagship model, making it a more accessible choice for smartphone manufacturers.
Despite its apparently lower specifications, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 benefits from being constructed on the advanced TSMC 4nm process. This is expected to result in enhanced energy efficiency and overall performance, even if it falls short of matching the raw power of the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2.
