Snapdragon vs Exynos – What Are the Differences Between the Two Chipsets

When buying a Samsung Galaxy smartphone, one of the most common questions customers ask is about the chipset: Snapdragon vs Exynos — which one is better? Both are advanced processors that power Samsung devices, but there are important differences in performance, efficiency, graphics, and AI features.

This article breaks down the key distinctions and also looks closely at the Exynos 1380 vs Snapdragon 778G, two of the most popular mid-range processors found in Galaxy A Series smartphones.

Snapdragon vs Exynos: Performance & CPU

• Snapdragon (Qualcomm) processors are known for slightly stronger benchmark results, especially in gaming and sustained performance.
• Exynos (Samsung) processors often focus on power efficiency and integration with Galaxy software, delivering balanced performance in everyday tasks.

Snapdragon vs Exynos: GPU & Gaming

• Snapdragon’s Adreno GPUs are generally ahead in gaming performance, offering smoother graphics and higher frame rates.
• Exynos GPUs (Mali-based) are capable, but tend to fall slightly behind in heavy 3D gaming scenarios.

Snapdragon vs Exynos: AI & Machine Learning

• Snapdragon chipsets feature Qualcomm’s AI Engine with high TOPS scores, supporting on-device voice recognition and real-time image enhancements.
• Exynos chips integrate Samsung’s NPUs, optimised for photography and multitasking within the Galaxy ecosystem.

Snapdragon vs Exynos: Connectivity

• Snapdragon processors usually support sub-6 GHz + mmWave 5G, along with advanced Wi-Fi 6/6E and Bluetooth 5.2.
• Exynos chipsets support sub-6 GHz 5G with competitive download/upload speeds and the latest Bluetooth 5.3 standard.

Snapdragon vs Exynos: Imaging & Camera Support

• Both chipsets support high-resolution cameras (up to 200MP) and advanced image processing.
• Snapdragon ISPs are slightly more flexible with multi-camera setups, while Exynos ISPs integrate AI-based scene recognition and EIS (electronic image stabilisation).

Exynos 1380 vs Snapdragon 778G – Mid-Range Face-Off

Samsung’s Exynos 1380 and Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 778G are both popular mid-range chipsets, powering Galaxy A Series devices such as the Galaxy A54 (Exynos 1380) and earlier models like the Galaxy A52s (Snapdragon 778G).

Snapdragon vs Exynos: Differences Performance

• Performance: Snapdragon 778G delivers around 8–10% stronger performance in GPU-heavy benchmarks, making it better for gaming.
• Efficiency: Exynos 1380’s 5nm process offers improved power efficiency and thermal control.
• AI & Cameras: Snapdragon’s AI engine scores higher in raw TOPS, but Exynos integrates tightly with Samsung’s camera tuning for excellent photos.
• Connectivity: Snapdragon adds mmWave 5G (useful in markets like the US), while Exynos covers sub-6 GHz 5G (perfect for the UAE).

Which Chipset Should You Choose?

• Snapdragon (e.g., 778G, 8 Gen series) → Best for gaming, graphics, and power users who need sustained high performance.
• Exynos (e.g., 1380, 2200, 2400) → Ideal for balanced daily use, battery efficiency, and optimised Galaxy features.

In the UAE market, where 5G networks run on sub-6 GHz, both chipsets perform equally well in connectivity. Your decision should depend on how you use your device — gamers may lean on the Snapdragon, while all-round users will find Exynos equally capable.

Conclusion

The debate of Snapdragon vs Exynos has evolved — today, both are highly capable processors designed to deliver smooth Samsung Galaxy experiences. In the mid-range, the Exynos 1380 vs Snapdragon 778G comparison shows a trade-off between gaming power and energy efficiency, but neither lags behind in real-world daily usage.

At MDS Mobile, an authorized Samsung retailer in the UAE, our experts can help you choose the right Galaxy smartphone — whether powered by Exynos or Snapdragon — to suit your lifestyle and needs. Visit us in-store or online at mdsmobile.ae for the latest Samsung Galaxy devices with genuine UAE warranty and expert guidance.