Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Plus
Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Plus: Power in Details
(As of April 2025)
Introduction
Qualcomm Snapdragon 855 Plus is a flagship processor from 2019 that remains in demand in the affordable premium smartphone and specialized device segments. Despite the arrival of newer chips like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, it continues to demonstrate reliable performance, especially in devices where the balance between price and power is critical. This article will explore what makes the Snapdragon 855 Plus noteworthy in 2025, who it suits best, and what to consider when choosing a device based on it.
1. Architecture and Technology Process: The Foundation of Efficiency
Cores and Frequencies
The Snapdragon 855 Plus is built on an 8-core Kryo 485 architecture with three clusters:
- 1× Prime core Cortex-A76 at 2.96 GHz for heavy tasks.
- 3× Performance cores Cortex-A76 at 2.42 GHz for multi-threaded operations.
- 4× Efficiency cores Cortex-A55 at 1.8 GHz for background processes.
This distribution allows the processor to manage power consumption effectively by switching between clusters depending on the workload.
GPU Adreno 640
The Adreno 640 GPU in the "Plus" version features a 15% higher frequency (compared to the standard 855), enhancing performance in gaming and rendering. Support for Vulkan 1.1 and OpenGL ES 3.2 APIs enables running modern mobile games at high graphical settings.
7-Nanometer Technology Process
Utilizing a 7-nm technology (manufactured by TSMC) ensures low heat output (TDP 6 W) and high energy efficiency. This is particularly important for compact devices, where balancing power and battery life is crucial.
Cache Memory
The L2 Cache level is 1 MB, which speeds up the processing of frequently used data. However, compared to modern processors (e.g., Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 with L3 Cache up to 8 MB), this appears modest; nonetheless, it is sufficient for basic tasks.
2. Performance in Real Tasks
Gaming
The Adreno 640 still manages most games at medium settings in 2025:
- Genshin Impact — stable 40-50 FPS at 1080p resolution.
- Call of Duty: Mobile — up to 60 FPS in HD mode.
For more demanding titles like Honkai: Star Rail, lowering the settings to medium presets will be necessary.
Multimedia
The chip supports:
- Recording and playback of 4K@60 FPS video (HDR10+).
- Decoding HEVC and VP9 formats.
- Connecting external displays via USB-C with resolutions up to 4K.
AI Applications
The Hexagon 690 DSP, with a dedicated tensor accelerator, processes tasks such as face recognition and real-time photo processing (e.g., night mode). However, compared to the AI processors in Snapdragon 8 Gen 2/3, the speed of AI operations is approximately 30-40% lower.
Energy Consumption and Thermal Management
Under moderate loads (social media, streaming video), smartphones with the Snapdragon 855 Plus demonstrate 6-8 hours of screen time. In gaming mode, a 4000 mAh battery lasts about 3-4 hours.
Cooling systems in devices with this chip often include graphite pads and vapor chambers, although budget models may experience overheating during extended sessions.
3. Built-in Modules: Connectivity and Communication
Snapdragon X24 LTE/X50 5G Modem
- 4G LTE Cat.20 — speeds up to 2 Gbps.
- 5G (millimeter waves) — requires an external X50 modem that supports sub-6 GHz and mmWave networks. As of 2025, such networks are widespread, but in some regions (e.g., Europe), the priority is on 5G SA (Standalone), with which the X50 is not compatible.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) — speeds up to 1.8 Gbps.
- Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX Adaptive support for high-quality audio in wireless headphones.
Navigation
Support for GPS (L1/L5), GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. Positioning accuracy — up to 1 meter in open spaces.
4. Comparison with Competitors
Previous Generations:
- Snapdragon 855: The difference with the 855 Plus is the higher CPU frequencies (2.96 vs. 2.84 GHz) and GPU (+15%), offering a 10-12% boost in gaming performance.
- Snapdragon 845: An outdated 10-nm chip with Adreno 630. AnTuTu 10 score — about 360k, which is 33% lower.
Competitors from 2019-2020:
- Apple A13 Bionic (iPhone 11): Best single-threaded performance (Geekbench 6 Single-Core — ~1300), but limited multitasking due to its 6 cores.
- HiSilicon Kirin 990 5G: Comparable performance, built-in 5G modem, but weaker GPU (Mali-G76).
Modern Alternatives (2025):
- Snapdragon 7 Gen 3: A budget chip from 2024. AnTuTu 10 score — ~550k, but better energy efficiency (4 nm).
- MediaTek Dimensity 8300: Support for 5G SA/NSA, sixth-generation AI processor.
5. Use Case Scenarios
Gaming
Ideal choices include smartphones with active cooling, such as the ASUS ROG Phone II (2019) or Black Shark 2 Pro. The processor is more than sufficient for game streaming (Xbox Cloud, GeForce NOW).
Daily Tasks
Smooth operation with Android 13/14, multitasking (simultaneous running of 10-15 applications). Delays are only noticeable when processing 8K video or using heavy AI filters.
Photo and Video
Support for cameras up to 48 MP (single sensor) or 22 MP + 22 MP (dual). Capabilities include:
- 4K HDR recording.
- Super Slow-Mo mode at 720p@960 FPS.
- AI stabilization EIS 3.0.
6. Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- High performance for its class.
- Support for 5G (in compatible devices).
- Energy-efficient 7-nm architecture.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of an integrated 5G modem (requires external X50).
- No support for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3.
- Limited optimization for AI tasks in 2025.
7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Device
1. Cooling: Look for models with a vapor chamber or fan (relevant for gamers).
2. Battery: At least 4000 mAh for comfortable usage.
3. 5G Support: Check if the device has the X50 modem if 5G compatibility is needed.
4. Price: In 2025, new smartphones with the Snapdragon 855 Plus range from $300 to $450 (e.g., Xiaomi Black Shark 3 Lite or remaining OnePlus 7T Pro stock).
8. Final Conclusion: Who is Snapdragon 855 Plus Suitable For?
This processor is an optimal choice for:
- Budget-conscious gamers willing to compromise on graphics.
- Users seeking a reliable smartphone for social media, streaming, and basic photography.
- Enthusiasts who purchase discounted older devices.
Key Benefits: Balance of price and performance, proven reliability, compatibility with most modern applications.
In the conditions of 2025, the Snapdragon 855 Plus is a sensible compromise for those not willing to pay extra for the latest technologies but who value stability and adequate power.