Google Tensor G3 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 - A comprehensive comparison
Google used to rely on Qualcomm's Snapdragon series of processors for their Pixel devices. However, with Google moving on to their own processors, can their Tensor G3 match the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2?
Until recently, Google heavily relied on Qualcomm for SoCs but things have changed. Now, Google has ventured into making its own SoCs, setting the stage for a showdown between Google's best, the Tensor G3, and Qualcomm's powerhouse, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
The Tensor G3 announced in October 2023 is Google's current flagship processor. It replaces its somewhat lackluster predecessor, the Tensor G2 and it powers the latest offerings from Google, the Pixel 8 and 8 Pro.
In the other corner, we have the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, which made its debut in November 2022. This SoC is Qualcomm's 2022 flagship and enjoys huge popularity among numerous Android smartphone manufacturers. It predominantly powers high-end smartphones, such as the Xiaomi 13 Pro, Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, Nubia Z50s Pro, OnePlus 11, Nubia Red Magic 8S Pro, Nubia Red Magic 8 Pro, Honor Magic 5 Pro, Motorola Edge+ 2023, Vivo iQOO 11S, Oppo Find X6 Pro, and many other top-tier devices.
With this context, let's delve into the heart of the comparison.
>> Explore: Google Tensor G3 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 - comprehensive specs comparison
Performance Showdown: Tensor G3 vs. Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
Both SoCs boast a nearly identical CPU lineup, featuring Cortex X3, Cortex A715, and Cortex A510 CPUs. However, the 8 Gen 2 distinguishes itself by adding a pair of Cortex A710 CPUs to the mix.
Both SoCs incorporate five high-performance cores for handling demanding tasks. Nevertheless, the 8 Gen 2 outperforms the Tensor G3 in this category, courtesy of its higher-clocked performance cores. Consequently, the 8 Gen 2 excels in high-performance applications, tasks, and gaming scenarios.
Gaming Prowess: Tensor G3 vs. Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
The 8 Gen 2 takes the gaming crown, thanks to its superior Adreno 740 GPU. In contrast, the Tensor G3, primarily designed for photography, never positioned itself as a gaming-centric SoC.
RAM and Storage
Both SoCs reach a stalemate in this department, as they share the same LPDDR5X RAM and UFS 3.1/UFS 4.0 storage.
Camera and Video Capabilities
In terms of photography, both SoCs support camera resolutions of up to 200 megapixels. However, when it comes to video, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 outshines its counterpart, offering the ability to record and playback videos at 8K @30fps and 4K @120fps. The question of which SoC yields superior images remains subjective, ultimately depending on individual preferences.
Connectivity Clash
Both SoCs excel in network connectivity, supporting all generations from 2G to 5G, along with Bluetooth 5.3 and WiFi 7. Nonetheless, the 8 Gen 2 claims an edge in download speeds, clocking in at 10,000Mbps compared to the Tensor G3's 7,300Mbps.
Battery Efficiency Face-Off
Despite both SoCs being constructed on corresponding 4nm fabrication processes, (TSMC for the 8 Gen 2 and Samsung for the Tensor G3), TSMC's fabrication proves more efficient. Consequently, the 8 Gen 2 secures a slight advantage in battery life.
In Conclusion
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 emerges as the better SoC in terms of CPU performance, gaming capabilities, and marginally better battery life. However, the camera and video output remains a very personal matter, resting on individual preferences.