Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G in 2025: Balancing Performance and Affordability
April 2025
Introduction
In the world of mobile technology, where new processors with 5G support and AI accelerators are introduced annually, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 720G continues to hold its ground in the budget segment. Although the chip was launched back in 2020, its relevance persists due to its balanced architecture and the affordable price of devices based on it. In this article, we will discuss what makes the Snapdragon 720G noteworthy in 2025, who it is suitable for, and what nuances to consider when choosing a smartphone.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process: The Foundation of Efficiency
The Snapdragon 720G is built using an 8-nanometer process, a technology that by 2025 is considered outdated but is still utilized in budget devices. The chip combines 8 cores divided into two clusters:
- 2 high-performance Kryo 465 Gold cores (Cortex-A76 architecture) with a frequency of up to 2.3 GHz for resource-intensive tasks.
- 6 energy-efficient Kryo 465 Silver cores (Cortex-A55) with a frequency of 1.8 GHz, handling background processes.
Graphics processing is managed by the Adreno 618 — a GPU that supports Vulkan 1.1, OpenGL ES 3.2, and DirectX 12. It provides smooth performance in mid-level games and interface rendering at frequencies of up to 120 Hz.
Power consumption (TDP of 5W) remains one of its key advantages: the processor does not overheat even under prolonged loads, which is particularly important for compact smartphones without active cooling.
Performance in Real-World Tasks: From Gaming to AI
Gaming:
The Snapdragon 720G handles popular projects from 2024-2025, such as Genshin Impact (on low settings), PUBG Mobile (HD graphics at 60 FPS), and Call of Duty: Mobile. In less demanding games (Among Us, Brawl Stars), it demonstrates stable 60-120 FPS. However, in AAA titles at maximum settings, frame rates may drop to 30-40 FPS.
Multimedia:
- Support for 4K HDR video (recording and playback).
- Hardware decoding for H.265/HEVC codecs.
- Compatibility with Full HD+ (1080x2400 pixels) displays and refresh rates of up to 120 Hz.
AI Applications:
The built-in Hexagon 692 DSP accelerates machine learning tasks such as real-time photo enhancement (night mode, scene recognition), optimizing autofocus, and processing voice commands. However, compared to modern chips (like the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3), the AI capabilities are limited.
Power Consumption:
With moderate use (social networks, videos, calls), a smartphone powered by the Snapdragon 720G operates for 1.5–2 days without recharging. In gaming mode, a 5000 mAh battery drains in about 4–5 hours.
Integrated Connectivity Modules: 4G, Wi-Fi 6, and More
- Snapdragon X15 LTE modem: Download speeds of up to 800 Mbps, upload speeds of up to 150 Mbps. Support for 4G LTE-A, but the lack of 5G is the main drawback in 2025.
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) ensures stable connections in networks with many devices.
- Bluetooth 5.2 offers improved range and support for aptX Adaptive audio codecs.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, QZSS, SBAS — quick and precise location determination.
Comparing with Competitors: Where Does Snapdragon 720G Stand?
- Snapdragon 730G (8 nm): More powerful GPU (Adreno 618 vs. Adreno 618 — a typo, as the GPU in 730G is the same but has a higher frequency).
- MediaTek Dimensity 700 (7 nm): 5G support, but weaker GPU (Mali-G57 MC2).
- Exynos 1280 (5 nm): More modern manufacturing process, higher energy efficiency, but devices cost 20-30% more.
AnTuTu 10:
- Snapdragon 720G — 381,528 points.
- Dimensity 700 — 350,000 points.
- Exynos 1280 — 420,000 points.
Thus, the Snapdragon 720G remains a choice for those willing to sacrifice 5G for savings.
Use Cases: Who is it Suitable For?
1. Gaming: For casual games and esports projects (like Mobile Legends).
2. Daily Tasks: Social networks, streaming, working with office applications.
3. Photo and Video: Shooting with cameras up to 192 MP, recording 4K@30 fps, portrait mode with AI background blur.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Optimal price-to-performance ratio.
- Support for 120 Hz displays.
- Energy efficiency (TDP 5W).
Cons:
- Lack of 5G.
- The 8-nm process is inferior to 5-6 nm counterparts in energy savings.
- Limited performance in heavy games.
Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
1. Cooling: Look for models with passive cooling or heat pipes.
2. RAM: At least 6 GB RAM for multitasking.
3. Battery: At least 5000 mAh for comfortable use.
4. Price: New devices cost $200–300 (for example, Redmi Note 12S, Realme 9 Pro).
Final Conclusion: Who Should Consider It?
The Snapdragon 720G in 2025 is a choice for:
- Budget users unwilling to pay extra for 5G.
- Gamers who play casual projects.
- Conservatives who value stability and proven solutions.
Key benefits include affordability, long battery life, and smooth operation in daily scenarios. However, if you need 5G or maximum performance, consider the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 9000.
P.S. Despite its age, the Snapdragon 720G proves that a good processor doesn't have to be the newest. The key is finding balance between capabilities and budget.