Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G
Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G: An Affordable Entry into the World of 5G and Performance Balance
April 2025
The modern smartphone market offers a multitude of solutions for different budgets, but finding a device that combines 5G support, decent performance, and energy efficiency in the budget segment has always been a challenge. Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 5G, introduced back in 2021, remains a relevant option for those seeking an affordable smartphone with basic next-generation capabilities. Let's delve into what makes this system-on-chip (SoC) noteworthy and who it will suit in 2025.
1. Architecture and Process Technology: A Balance Between Power and Efficiency
The Snapdragon 480 5G is built on a 8nm process technology, which by 2025 is considered outdated compared to 6nm and 4nm chips. However, this does not hinder its competitiveness thanks to its optimized architecture.
- CPU: An 8-core processor with two clusters:
- 2 high-performance Kryo 460 cores (based on Cortex-A76) clocked at up to 2.0 GHz for demanding tasks.
- 6 energy-efficient Kryo 460 cores (Cortex-A55) clocked at 1.8 GHz for background processes.
This approach ensures a smooth user interface and battery savings.
- GPU: Adreno 619 — a graphics processor capable of running mobile games at medium settings. It supports Vulkan 1.1 and OpenGL ES 3.2 APIs and display resolutions up to FHD+ (1080×2520 pixels) with a refresh rate of 120Hz.
- 8nm Process Technology: Despite larger transistor sizes compared to modern chips, the 8nm technology maintains a TDP of 3W, positively impacting battery life.
2. Real-World Performance: From Gaming to AI
Gaming
The Snapdragon 480 5G handles popular titles like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Genshin Impact at low to medium settings (30–40 FPS). Adreno 619 provides stable performance, although dips may occur in intensive scenes. For casual games (Candy Crush, Among Us), performance is more than adequate.
Multimedia
The chip supports 4K video encoding and decoding at 30 FPS (H.265/HEVC) and can shoot at 1080p at 60 FPS. Smartphones based on the Snapdragon 480 often feature HD+ or FHD+ displays, making video viewing comfortable.
Artificial Intelligence
The Hexagon 686 — an integrated AI accelerator — enhances camera performance: automatic exposure adjustment, scene recognition, portrait mode with bokeh effect. However, for more complex tasks (real-time video processing, neural network filters), the power is insufficient.
Power Consumption and Heating
Thanks to its 3W TDP and efficient cores, smartphones with this chip exhibit battery life of 1.5 to 2 days with moderate use. Heating rarely exceeds 40°C even during gaming, achieved through limited GPU and CPU frequencies.
3. Integrated Modules: Future Connectivity in the Budget Segment
- Snapdragon X51 5G Modem: Supports sub-6GHz networks (speeds up to 2.5 Gbps), but lacks mmWave bands. In 2025, this is sufficient for most regions where 5G is developing on frequencies below 6 GHz.
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2: Stable connection to Wi-Fi 6 routers (up to 1.2 Gbps), as well as improved pairing with wireless headphones and smart devices.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou — the chip ensures accurate positioning even in dense urban environments.
4. Comparison with Competitors: Snapdragon 480 vs. MediaTek and Samsung
- MediaTek Dimensity 700 (7nm): A close competitor with similar specs (8 cores, Mali-G57 MC2). In AnTuTu 10 tests, Dimensity 700 scores approximately 350,000 points, slightly lower than Snapdragon 480 (360,090). However, MediaTek offers a more modern 7nm process, enhancing energy efficiency.
- Samsung Exynos 850 (8nm): An outdated chip with 8 Cortex-A55 cores (up to 2.0 GHz). Its Geekbench 6 results (Single-Core: ~200; Multi-Core: ~1200) are significantly worse than those of Snapdragon 480.
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2 (6nm): The direct successor to Snapdragon 480 with improved architecture (Cortex-A78) and an AnTuTu 10 score of about 450,000 points. However, smartphones based on it are priced $50–80 higher.
5. Use Cases: Who is Snapdragon 480 Suitable For?
- Everyday Tasks: Social media, messengers, web browsing, music, and video streaming — all are performed lag-free.
- Gaming: Suitable for casual games and mid-range projects at moderate settings.
- Photography and Video: Capable of shooting at 1080p/60 FPS, night modes with AI noise reduction, and portraits with bokeh effect. For 4K video or professional editing, the chip is lacking.
6. Pros and Cons of the Processor
Pros:
- 5G support in the budget segment.
- Energy efficiency and low heat output.
- Affordable smartphone prices ($200–300).
Cons:
- Outdated 8nm process technology.
- Limited performance in demanding applications.
- No support for mmWave 5G and Wi-Fi 6E.
7. Practical Tips: How to Choose a Smartphone with Snapdragon 480?
- RAM: A minimum of 4 GB (preferably 6 GB) for comfortable multitasking.
- Display: Opt for models with a 90 Hz refresh rate for smoother animations.
- Battery: An optimal capacity of 5000 mAh.
- Camera: Look for devices with a main sensor of at least 48 MP and stabilization (EIS).
Examples of 2025 Models:
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 13 Lite ($230): 6.5" FHD+, 6/128 GB, 64 MP camera.
- realme Narzo 60i ($210): 5000 mAh, 90 Hz display, support for 25W charging.
8. Final Conclusion: An Ideal Choice for Budget-Conscious Users
The Snapdragon 480 5G is an optimal option for those seeking an affordable smartphone with basic 5G support, long battery life, and sufficient performance for everyday tasks. It suits:
- Students and teenagers.
- Users transitioning from 4G to 5G without overspending.
- Those who value a balance between price and quality.
The main benefits include access to next-generation networks, smooth OS and application performance, and the ability to save $100–150 compared to flagship models. As of 2025, the Snapdragon 480 remains a reliable "workhorse" for those who don't need top-tier specifications but prioritize stability and modern communication technologies.