Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 732G: Balancing Performance and Affordability in 2025
April 2025
Several years after its release, the Snapdragon 732G remains a popular choice for mid-range smartphones. This processor, launched by Qualcomm in 2020, has proven its viability thanks to its balanced architecture and energy efficiency. In 2025, devices based on it continue to fill the niche of affordable gadgets for everyday tasks and moderate gaming. Let's explore what makes this platform notable and who it is suited for.
1. Architecture and Process Technology: The Foundation of Stability
The Snapdragon 732G is built on a 8-nm process technology—at the time of its release, it represented a compromise between cost and performance. In 2025, this process appears outdated against the backdrop of 5-6 nm chips, but it remains relevant for the budget segment.
CPU:
- 8 Kryo 470 cores, divided into two clusters:
- 2 high-performance Cortex-A76 cores clocked up to 2.3 GHz (an improved version of the Snapdragon 730G).
- 6 power-efficient Cortex-A55 cores at 1.8 GHz for background tasks.
This 2+6 architecture ensures smooth system operation and conserves battery power.
GPU:
- Adreno 618 optimized for gaming (the 'G' in the chip name indicates a gaming focus).
- Support for Vulkan 1.1, OpenGL ES 3.2, and DirectX 12.
Process Technology and TDP:
- Samsung's 8 nm technology (8LPP) ensures a TDP of 5 Watts, contributing to moderate heat generation.
2. Performance: Gaming, Multimedia, and AI
Gaming:
The Adreno 618 handles mobile games at medium settings:
- Genshin Impact: 30-40 FPS on medium presets.
- PUBG Mobile: stable 40 FPS at HD quality.
- COD Mobile: up to 60 FPS in Multiplayer mode.
However, by 2025, demanding titles like Honkai: Star Rail might require lowering graphics to minimal settings.
Multimedia:
- Supports video at 4K@30 FPS (recording and playback).
- Hardware decoding for H.265 (HEVC), HDR10.
- Displays up to QHD+ (3360×1440) with a refresh rate of 120 Hz (relevant for AMOLED screens).
Artificial Intelligence:
- The Hexagon 688 AI accelerator enhances camera performance (shooting scenarios, autofocus), voice assistants, and dynamic power management.
- Features like real-time noise reduction and automatic video stabilization are implemented at a basic level.
Power Consumption and Heating:
Thanks to a 5W TDP and energy-efficient A55 cores, smartphones with the Snapdragon 732G demonstrate:
- Up to 8-10 hours of screen time (with a 5000 mAh battery).
- Heating rarely exceeds 42°C even during prolonged gaming sessions (with passive cooling available).
3. Integrated Modules: Basic Connectivity
Modem:
- The Snapdragon X15 LTE supports 4G Cat.15 with peak speeds of up to 800 Mbps (download) and 150 Mbps (upload).
- Lack of 5G is a major downside in 2025, as fifth-generation networks have become the standard even in the budget segment.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth:
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) is not supported—only Wi-Fi 5 (up to 867 Mbps on the 5 GHz band).
- Bluetooth 5.1 with aptX HD for high-quality audio in wireless headphones.
Navigation:
- GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou—standard features for accurate positioning.
4. Comparison with Competitors: Strengths and Weaknesses
Previous Generations:
- Snapdragon 730G: The 732G is about 10% faster in GPU performance and has higher CPU frequencies.
- Snapdragon 720G: Less powerful GPU (Adreno 618 vs. Adreno 618 in 732G—differences are due to optimization).
Competitors from 2022-2024:
- MediaTek Dimensity 920 (6 nm, 5G): Higher performance in AnTuTu (~480K), but more expensive.
- Exynos 1280 (5 nm, 5G): Better energy efficiency but weaker in gaming.
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (4 nm, 5G): A relevant chip from 2023 with a comparable price, but less stable optimization for gaming.
Conclusion: The 732G excels in pricing (devices starting from $250) and stability, but falls short on 5G support and newer connectivity standards.
5. Use Cases: Who is it For?
Gaming:
- Casual games (Candy Crush, Clash Royale)—perfect fit.
- Hardcore projects—might require lowering settings.
Everyday Tasks:
- Social media, browsing, streaming—smooth performance.
- Multi-window mode—functions smoothly thanks to its 8 cores.
Photography and Video:
- Cameras up to 192 MP (support for Zero Shutter Lag).
- 4K@30 FPS recording with EIS.
- Real-time AI enhancement for photos.
6. Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Energy efficiency: 5W TDP + optimization for Android 14/15.
- Affordable device pricing ($250–$400).
- Good optimization for games and applications.
Disadvantages:
- No 5G support.
- The 8 nm process technology is less competitive compared to modern alternatives.
- Limitations in heavy gaming and 8K video.
7. Practical Tips: How to Choose a Smartphone with Snapdragon 732G
- RAM: At least 6 GB (8 GB is better for gaming).
- Cooling: Look for models with copper pipes or graphite coatings.
- Battery: 5000 mAh is the optimal choice.
- Examples of 2025 devices:
- Xiaomi Poco X5 Pro (2023)—around $300.
- Realme 8 Pro—starting at $280.
8. Final Verdict: Who is the Snapdragon 732G For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Seek a smartphone under $400 with good battery life.
- Are not willing to pay extra for 5G.
- Play mobile games at medium settings.
Key Benefits: Stability, proven architecture, and an optimal price-to-performance ratio. In 2025, the Snapdragon 732G remains a reliable option for "mid-range" smartphones, proving that even outdated chips can remain relevant with proper optimization.