Qualcomm Snapdragon 460
Qualcomm Snapdragon 460: Budget Processor Focused on Efficiency
April 2025
Introduction
In the world of mobile technologies, the balance between price and performance remains key. The Qualcomm Snapdragon 460, introduced several years ago, is still a relevant solution for budget smartphones. Despite its modest specifications, it demonstrates commendable efficiency in everyday tasks. Let’s explore who this chipset is suitable for and what advantages it offers in 2025.
1. Architecture and Process Technology: The Foundation of Stability
Cores and Frequencies
The Snapdragon 460 is built on an 8-core architecture divided into two clusters:
- 4 Cortex-A73 cores with a frequency of up to 1.8 GHz for resource-intensive tasks;
- 4 Cortex-A53 cores with a frequency of 1.6 GHz for background processes.
This combination ensures smooth operation of the operating system and basic applications, although by 2025 this architecture is considered outdated (modern chips use Cortex-A75/A55 or newer).
Adreno 610 GPU
The Adreno 610 graphics processor supports Vulkan 1.1 and OpenGL ES 3.2, allowing mobile games to run at low to medium settings. However, it lacks the power for demanding projects like Genshin Impact or Honkai: Star Rail.
11nm Process Technology
Using 11nm technology (compared to 6-7nm used by competitors in 2025) increases power consumption under peak loads, but this is not critical for scenarios with moderate use. A TDP of 3W contributes to long battery life.
2. Performance in Real Tasks
Gaming
- Casual games (Candy Crush, Subway Surfers) run perfectly.
- MOBA (Mobile Legends) — up to 40 FPS at medium settings.
- Shooters (PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile) — 25-30 FPS at low settings.
Multimedia
- Support for 1080p@60fps video (encoding/decoding).
- Capability to output to screens with a resolution of up to Full HD+.
- Lack of support for HDR10+ and AV1 limits streaming quality.
AI Applications
The built-in Hexagon 683 DSP handles basic tasks:
- Background blur in Zoom;
- Battery optimization via AI scheduler;
- Real-time photo enhancement (but without complex effects).
Power Consumption and Heating
Thanks to the 3W TDP, smartphones with Snapdragon 460 rarely overheat, but throttling may occur during extended gaming sessions. Average battery life ranges from 1.5 to 2 days with a 5000mAh capacity.
3. Integrated Modules: Connectivity and Navigation
Snapdragon X11 LTE Modem
- 4G LTE Cat. 13 with speeds of up to 390 Mbps (download) and 150 Mbps (upload).
- The absence of 5G is a major drawback in 2025.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with dual-band support (2.4/5 GHz).
- Bluetooth 5.1 with improved connection stability.
Navigation
- Support for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou.
- Positioning accuracy — up to 3 meters.
4. Comparison with Competitors
Snapdragon 460 vs. MediaTek Helio G35
- Geekbench 6 (SC/MC): 272/999 vs. 245/890.
- AnTuTu 10: 192,000 vs. 165,000.
- Advantage of MediaTek: support for 90Hz displays.
Snapdragon 460 vs. Unisoc Tiger T610
- Adreno 610 GPU vs. Mali-G52: Snapdragon performs better in gaming.
- AI performance: Unisoc has the edge due to a dedicated NPU.
Qualcomm Generations
- Snapdragon 460 vs. Snapdragon 680: The latter has a 6nm process technology and Cortex-A73/A53 but costs 20-30% more.
5. Usage Scenarios
Gaming
Suitable for casual games but not for AAA titles. It is recommended to choose devices with 4-6 GB of RAM for comfortable multitasking.
Everyday Tasks
- Social media, messengers, streaming video (YouTube, Netflix).
- Simultaneous operation of 5-7 apps without noticeable lag.
Photo and Video
- Support for cameras up to 48MP (single sensor) or 16+8MP (dual camera).
- Video recording at 1080p@60fps but without EIS 3.0 stabilization.
- Night mode struggles with noise due to a weak ISP.
6. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low device prices (starting from $120).
- Energy efficiency.
- Sufficient performance for basic tasks.
Cons:
- Lack of 5G.
- Weak GPU for modern games.
- Outdated process technology (11 nm).
7. Practical Tips When Choosing a Smartphone
- RAM: At least 4 GB (preferably 6 GB).
- Storage: Choose models with UFS 2.1 (instead of eMMC 5.1).
- Display: IPS with a 60Hz refresh rate is the optimal option.
- Battery: At least 4000 mAh for comfortable operation.
Popular Models of 2025:
- Xiaomi Redmi 12C ($130): 6.7" HD+, 5000 mAh.
- Realme C55 ($150): 50 MP camera, 33W fast charging.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is Snapdragon 460 Suitable For?
This processor is the choice for those who:
1. Do not require maximum performance.
2. Value battery life.
3. Are looking for a smartphone under $150.
It is ideal for students, retirees, or as a second phone for work tasks. The main benefits are stability, long battery life, and availability of replacement parts for repairs. However, for 4K shooting, gaming, or using 5G, it is worth considering newer chipsets, such as the Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 or MediaTek Dimensity 700.
Conclusion
The Snapdragon 460 remains a reliable option in the budget segment, despite the competition. Its strengths are optimization and time-tested architecture. If your needs are limited to calls, social media, and occasional gaming, this processor will be a worthwhile investment.