New Qualcomm Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 Isn’t the Powerhouse You’d Expect It To Be

The Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 is a new processor from Qualcomm. But don’t let the “s” fool you – this chip isn’t a major upgrade over previous offerings. In fact, it’s a bit of a step down compared to the 2022 Snapdragon 6 Gen 1.

Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 Is Basically A Rebranded Snapdragon 695

Eagle-eyed tech enthusiasts might recognize the 6s Gen 3. Its model number hints at its true origins – it’s essentially a revamped version of the 2021 Snapdragon 695. With a 6nm manufacturing process and similar core configurations, the 6s Gen 3 offers only a minor bump in CPU speed compared to its older counterpart.

While the 6s Gen 3 boasts a few improvements, it falls behind the Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 in crucial aspects. The 6 Gen 1 utilizes a more advanced 4nm process, packs two extra high-performance cores, and boasts a more powerful Adreno 710 GPU. This translates to smoother performance and better graphics handling.

The 6s Gen 3 also sticks with older UFS 2.2 storage and LPDDR4X RAM, whereas the 6 Gen 1 supports the faster LPDDR5 RAM and UFS 3.1 storage. This can impact app loading times and overall system responsiveness.

Perhaps the most surprising limitation of the 6s Gen 3 is its camera capabilities. The chip’s image signal processor (ISP) only supports video capture up to 1080p at 60fps. In 2024, when many users crave high-resolution video recording, this feels like a missed opportunity.

Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 Is A Budget Option, Not a Performance Leader

The Snapdragon 6s Gen 3 might find its way into budget-friendly smartphones. Its modest performance improvements and outdated features make it a less compelling option compared to the more capable Snapdragon 6 Gen 1. If you prioritize smooth performance, cutting-edge features, and high-resolution video capture, the 6 Gen 1 remains the superior choice.

What To Consider Instead? Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 or Snapdragon 8s Gen 3!

If you’re in the market for a mid-range device, opt for the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 smartphones instead. Unlike the Snapdragon 6s Gen 3, this SoC is geared to deliver flagship-grade performance. As a matter of fact, the AnTuTu benchmark results show similar numbers between the 7+ Gen 3 and 8s Gen 3. Of course, the 8s Gen 3 is a little better in terms of performance.

However, in comparison, the Snapdragon 7+ Gen 3 devices are on the affordable side. Of course, there are not many of these phones available in the global market. Most of them are still exclusive to the Chinese region.

So, if you don’t want to go through the hassle of importing, opt for Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 instead. One good example in this regard would be the Motorola Edge 50 Ultra. It has already made its debut in the international markets, and it costs less than the high-end Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 devices.

If you are not in a rush, you can also wait for the Xiaomi 14 Civi. It will be launching with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, but the initial launch seems to be limited to India.