Qualcomm Snapdragon 730
Qualcomm Snapdragon 730: Review of the Mid-Range Smartphone Processor in 2025
April 2025
Introduction
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 730 is a mobile system-on-chip (SoC) released in 2019 but still found in budget and mid-range smartphones. Despite its age, it remains popular thanks to its balance of performance, energy efficiency, and cost. In this article, we will explore what the Snapdragon 730 is capable of in 2025, who it is suitable for, and what its limitations are.
1. Architecture and Technology Process
CPU: 8-core Configuration
The Snapdragon 730 is built on a hybrid architecture with 8 cores divided into two clusters:
- High-performance cores: 2x Kryo 470 (based on Cortex-A76) with a frequency of up to 2.2 GHz.
- Energy-efficient cores: 6x Kryo 470 (Cortex-A55) with a frequency of up to 1.8 GHz.
This arrangement allows for optimized energy consumption: the powerful cores are activated during gaming or video rendering, while background tasks are handled by the efficient cores.
GPU: Adreno 618
The Adreno 618 graphics processor supports API Vulkan 1.1, OpenGL ES 3.2, and DirectX 12. It ensures smooth operation in mobile games at medium settings, but for modern AAA titles (such as Genshin Impact or Honkai: Star Rail), its power is no longer sufficient.
Technology Process: 8nm
The chip is manufactured using 8nm technology by Samsung. While not the most advanced process in 2025, it provides acceptable energy efficiency (TDP — 5W) and moderate heating.
2. Performance in Real-World Tasks
Gaming
- Medium Settings: Adreno 618 handles PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Mobile Legends at HD graphics/60 FPS.
- High Settings: In games with advanced rendering (such as Fortnite), frame rates can drop to 30–40 FPS.
- Heating: Due to its 5W TDP and 8nm technology process, overheating is rare; however, prolonged sessions may result in throttling.
Multimedia
- Video: Supports 4K HDR10 decoding and 4K@30 FPS encoding.
- Audio: Qualcomm Aqstic and aptX Adaptive for high-quality sound in headphones.
Artificial Intelligence
The Hexagon 688 DSP accelerates tasks like face recognition, photo processing, and voice assistants. However, it is weak for complex AI models (e.g., real-time generative AI).
Energy Consumption
Batteries with a capacity of 4000–5000 mAh paired with the Snapdragon 730 provide 1–1.5 days of operation with moderate use. In power-saving mode, battery life increases by 20–30%.
3. Integrated Modules
- Modem: Snapdragon X15 LTE (4G Cat.15) with a maximum speed of up to 800 Mbps. 5G is absent — this is the main limitation for users seeking a future-proof device.
- Wi-Fi: No support for Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), only Wi-Fi 5 (up to 867 Mbps).
- Bluetooth: Version 5.1 with support for aptX HD and Dual Audio.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou — positioning issues are non-existent even in urban environments.
4. Comparison with Competitors
Compared to Previous Qualcomm Generations
- Snapdragon 720G: Offers better graphics (Adreno 618 vs. Adreno 618, but at higher frequencies), yet similar CPU performance.
- Snapdragon 765G: Includes a 5G modem and a more powerful GPU (Adreno 620), making it more preferable for gaming.
Compared to 2025 Competitors
- MediaTek Dimensity 8000: 5G capability, 6nm technology process, AnTuTu score of ~500K — clearly surpassing the Snapdragon 730.
- Exynos 1280: 5nm, supports 5G but is more expensive.
Conclusion: The Snapdragon 730 lags behind modern chips in speed and functionality but wins in price.
5. Use Case Scenarios
Gaming
Suitable for casual games (Among Us, Clash Royale) and older titles. A good option for streaming through Xbox Cloud or GeForce Now.
Daily Tasks
Social media, messaging, web browsing, and video streaming — all run smoothly without lag.
Photo and Video Capture
- Supports cameras up to 192 MP (theoretically) and dual modules with AI stabilization.
- Capable of recording video at 4K@30 FPS with noise reduction.
- The night mode operates slower than on newer chips but provides acceptable results.
6. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low device cost ($200–$300).
- Energy efficiency.
- Good compatibility with older applications.
Cons:
- No 5G support.
- Weak for modern gaming and AI tasks.
- Limited Wi-Fi speed.
7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
- Price: If the device costs more than $300 — it's better to look for a model with Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 or Dimensity 8000.
- Battery: Look for a battery capacity of 4500 mAh or more.
- Display: AMOLED at 90 Hz will enhance the experience, but GPU load will increase.
- Updates: Check if the manufacturer promises Android 15/16 updates.
Typical Devices with Snapdragon 730 in 2025:
- Budget smartphones: Xiaomi Redmi Note 12E ($220).
- Devices for emerging markets: Realme 8 Pro ($250).
8. Final Conclusion: Who is Snapdragon 730 Suitable For?
This processor is a good choice for:
1. Budget users who do not need the latest technologies.
2. Students and teenagers who value battery life and a smooth interface.
3. Owners of IoT devices, where stability is more important than power.
Key Benefits:
- Affordable price.
- Proven reliability.
- Optimal "performance/watt" ratio.
If you're not chasing 5G and don't plan to run heavy games, the Snapdragon 730 remains a solid option in 2025. However, for long-term use (3+ years), it is worth considering more modern SoCs.