Qualcomm Snapdragon 630
Qualcomm Snapdragon 630: Review of an Outdated but Still Relevant Processor for Budget Smartphones in 2025
April 2025
Introduction
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 630 is a mobile system-on-chip (SoC) that was released back in 2017. Despite its age, it remains a staple for manufacturers of ultra-budget smartphones in 2025. This solution is aimed at those looking for devices priced between $150–200 that offer basic functionality: calls, messaging, social media, and light applications. But how well does this processor meet modern demands? Let's dive into the details.
1. Architecture and Manufacturing Process: A Modest Foundation
Cores and Frequencies
The Snapdragon 630 is built on an 8-core architecture using ARM Cortex-A53 chips. Two clusters of cores operate at different frequencies:
- 4 high-performance cores – up to 2.2 GHz;
- 4 energy-efficient cores – up to 1.8 GHz.
This approach (big.LITTLE) allows for a balance between performance and energy consumption, but the Cortex-A53 cores are outdated even for 2025. They do not support modern ARMv9 instructions, which limits data processing speeds.
Graphics
The Adreno 508 GPU supports Vulkan 1.0 and OpenGL ES 3.2 APIs. This allows for the running of simple 3D games (such as Among Us or Candy Crush) at low graphics settings, but it lacks the power for modern titles like Genshin Impact.
Manufacturing Process
The 14-nanometer manufacturing process (FinFET) is the main limitation of the Snapdragon 630. Modern budget chips (like MediaTek Dimensity 700 or Snapdragon 4 Gen 3) use 6–7 nm processes, which improve energy efficiency and reduce heat generation.
Cache
The second-level (L2) cache size is 1.5 MB. For comparison, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 features an L2 cache of up to 2 MB and an L3 cache of 3 MB, which enhances multitasking performance.
2. Performance in Real Tasks: Modest Capabilities
Gaming
- Light projects: Mobile Legends, Clash of Clans – consistently at medium settings (30–40 FPS).
- Medium load: PUBG Mobile – only in "Smooth" mode with a frame rate of 25–30 FPS.
- Modern AAA games: Honkai: Star Rail or Wuthering Waves – lags even at minimum settings.
Multimedia
- Supports displays up to Full HD+ (2160×1080 pixels).
- Plays 4K video (30 FPS) through H.265 decoding.
- Maximum video recording – 4K@30 FPS, but stabilisation is weak.
Artificial Intelligence
The Snapdragon 630 lacks a dedicated neural processing unit (NPU), so tasks such as face recognition, automatic photo retouching, or voice assistants are performed slower compared to chips with AI accelerators.
Power Consumption and Heating
The TDP (thermal design power) is 5 W. Combined with passive cooling (no heat sinks), this results in the device's shell heating up to 42–45°C under prolonged load. However, for simple tasks (social media, music), the chip remains cool.
3. Built-in Modules: Outdated But Functional
Modem
- 4G LTE Cat.12 (speeds up to 600 Mbps).
- Lack of 5G – the main drawback for 2025, as even budget devices are transitioning to new networks.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi 802.11ac (up to 433 Mbps) – no support for Wi-Fi 6.
- Bluetooth 5.0 (compared to 5.3 in modern chips).
Navigation
- GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou – lacking Galileo and QZSS. Positioning accuracy is ±5 meters.
4. Comparison with Competitors: A Fight for Survival
Direct Competitors in 2025:
- MediaTek Helio G37 (12 nm, 8×Cortex-A53, PowerVR GE8320):
- Similar performance, but supports modern AV1 codecs.
- Device prices start at $130.
- Unisoc Tiger T606 (12 nm, 2×A75 + 6×A55, Mali-G57 MP1):
- Better graphics and support for cameras up to 108 MP.
- Devices priced from $150.
Modern Alternatives:
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 (4 nm, 2×A78 + 6×A55, Adreno 613):
- 2.5 times higher performance in AnTuTu benchmarks.
- Supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6.
- Smartphones starting at $180.
Conclusion: The Snapdragon 630 lags behind even budget chips in 2025 but maintains a place in devices priced under $150 due to low production costs.
5. Usage Scenarios: Who is This Chip Suitable For?
Everyday Tasks
- Social media, messengers, browsing – operates smoothly, but with delays when loading heavy websites.
- Music/video streaming – consistently in HD quality.
Gaming
Only suitable for casual games. For streaming through Xbox Cloud Gaming or GeForce NOW, a stable Wi-Fi connection is required.
Photo and Video
- Cameras up to 24 MP (single) or 13 MP (dual).
- No support for HDR10+ or RAW shooting.
- Portrait mode and night shooting are basic, without AI optimisation.
6. Pros and Cons: Is It Worth Buying?
Pros:
- Low device prices.
- Energy efficiency for simple tasks.
- Support for 4G and Dual SIM.
Cons:
- No 5G or Wi-Fi 6.
- Weak GPU for gaming.
- Lack of AI accelerators.
7. Practical Tips: How to Choose a Smartphone with Snapdragon 630?
1. Price: Don't overpay. Devices costing more than $150 on this chip are an unjustified expense.
2. RAM: At least 4 GB.
3. Screen: Preferably IPS with Gorilla Glass 3 protection.
4. Battery: At least 4000 mAh for a comfortable day of use.
5. Updates: Check if Android OS 13+ is installed (by 2025, Android 17 will already be relevant).
Examples of 2025 Models:
- Nokia C32 ($139): 6.5" HD+, 4/64 GB, 13 MP camera.
- Xiaomi Redmi A3 ($149): 6.52" IPS, 4/128 GB, 5000 mAh.
8. Final Conclusion: Who Is Snapdragon 630 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for:
- Seniors who need a simple phone for calls.
- Children as a first smartphone without excess features.
- Users of a secondary device – for managing a 4G SIM while traveling.
Main Benefit: Cost savings. For $130–170, you get a device capable of handling basic tasks. However, if your budget allows you to add $30–50, it's better to choose a device with Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 700 – they will last longer and won’t disappoint in the future.
Conclusion
The Snapdragon 630 in 2025 is an example of a "workhorse" for undemanding users. It won't impress with speed, but it fulfills its main task: providing connectivity and access to the digital world at minimal cost. However, remember that technology does not stand still, and even in the budget segment, there are fresher options available.