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Snapdragon 780G Phones: Specs & Scores Compared

Card No. 06·8666 · Updated · Standard formula, shown below

The Snapdragon 780G is a 5G mid-range chipset from Qualcomm, and this article explains how its specifications and benchmark scores compare to other popular mobile processors. You get a clear picture of its CPU, GPU, AI, and modem capabilities, along with real-world performance context to help you decide if a 780G phone is right for you.

Background: Where the 780G Fits

Announced in March 2021, the Snapdragon 780G sits above the 768G and below the 870 in Qualcomm’s lineup. It was designed for upper-mid-range phones, offering flagship-like features at a lower price point. The chip is built on a 5nm process (by Samsung), which was a big deal for mid-range power efficiency at the time. Phones with the 780G include the Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE and the Mi 11 Lite 5G.

Key Specs: CPU, GPU, and More

The Snapdragon 780G uses an octa-core Kryo 670 CPU with a 1+3+4 configuration:

  • 1x Cortex-A78 prime core at 2.4GHz
  • 3x Cortex-A78 performance cores at 2.2GHz
  • 4x Cortex-A55 efficiency cores at 1.9GHz

The GPU is the Adreno 642, which is a cut-down version of the Adreno 660 found in the Snapdragon 888. It supports 10-bit HDR, HDR10+, and up to 120Hz displays at FHD+ resolution. The integrated X53 5G modem supports both mmWave and sub-6 GHz bands, though mmWave is often not enabled on all devices. Other specs include the Spectra 570 ISP (for up to 192MP photos), Hexagon 770 AI processor (with 12 TOPS), and support for Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2, and USB 3.1.

Benchmark Scores: How It Performs

In synthetic benchmarks, the 780G delivers solid numbers for its class. On AnTuTu (v9), a typical 780G phone scores around 530,000–550,000 points. In Geekbench 5, it gets roughly 800–850 single-core and 2,900–3,100 multi-core. On GFXBench’s Aztec Ruins (High Tier, offscreen), it manages about 35–40fps. These scores put it in the upper mid-range tier, above the 765G and 768G, but below the Snapdragon 855/860 and 870.

Compared to its main rival, the MediaTek Dimensity 9000 (a higher-tier chip), the 780G is significantly slower. But against the Dimensity 1100/1200, it trades blows: the 780G wins in CPU single-core, while the Dimensity 1200 leads in GPU and multi-core. In real-world use, the 780G handles most games at high settings, though heavy titles like Genshin Impact may require medium settings for a stable 60fps.

How to Choose a 780G Phone

When looking at 780G phones, consider these factors:

  • RAM and storage: Most come with 6GB or 8GB LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.2 or 3.1 storage. UFS 3.1 is noticeably faster for app loading.
  • Display: A 120Hz AMOLED panel is common, but check if it’s LTPO (for variable refresh) or not.
  • Camera: The ISP is capable, but the actual camera quality depends on the sensor and tuning.
  • Battery and charging: Look for at least 4000mAh and 30W+ fast charging, as the 780G is efficient but not a battery champ.
  • Software updates: Check the manufacturer’s update policy—some offer two years of OS updates, others three.

Common Problems and Misconceptions

A common misconception is that the 780G is a “gaming� chip because of its G suffix. In reality, the G stands for “5G,� not gaming. It’s not a dedicated gaming processor; the Adreno 642 is good but not flagship-level. Another issue is thermal throttling: in sustained loads, the 780G can heat up and reduce performance, especially in thin phones. Some users also report that the X53 modem drains battery when 5G is always on, but this is common across all 5G chips.

Comparison with Other Chips

Here’s a quick comparison of the 780G with similar chips:

  • Snapdragon 768G: Older, 7nm, slower CPU (A76 cores), Adreno 620 GPU. The 780G is about 30% faster overall.
  • Snapdragon 855: A 2019 flagship, but the 780G’s CPU is comparable (slightly better single-core), while the 855’s Adreno 640 is a bit faster in GPU.
  • MediaTek Dimensity 1100: Similar CPU performance, but the Dimensity has a stronger GPU (Mali-G77 MC9). The 780G is more power-efficient.
  • Snapdragon 870: A true flagship chip with a faster A77 core (3.2GHz) and Adreno 650. The 870 is about 20-25% faster in GPU and multi-core.

Cost and Value

Phones with the 780G were originally priced in the $400–$500 range, but as newer chips have come out, they’ve dropped to $250–$350. At that price, the 780G offers excellent value for everyday performance, 5G, and camera quality. However, if you find a phone with a Snapdragon 870 or 855+ at a similar price, it might be a better deal for gaming. The 780G’s main advantage is its 5nm efficiency, which translates to better battery life.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re looking at 780G phones, also consider these alternatives:

  • Snapdragon 778G: A slightly newer chip (May 2021) with a similar CPU (Cortex-A78) but a lower clock (2.4GHz) and the same Adreno 642L GPU. It’s nearly identical in performance.
  • MediaTek Dimensity 1200: Offers better GPU performance for gaming, but less efficient.
  • Snapdragon 870: A better choice if you want flagship-level performance and don’t mind worse battery life.
  • Older flagships like the Snapdragon 865: Often available at similar prices, with better GPU and ISP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Snapdragon 780G good for gaming?

It’s decent for casual and mid-range gaming. You can play PUBG Mobile at Smooth + 60fps, and Genshin Impact at Medium settings around 50-60fps. But for heavy sustained gaming, a chip like the 870 or 888 is better.

Does the 780G support 5G?

Yes, it has an integrated X53 5G modem supporting both sub-6 GHz and mmWave (though mmWave is optional and often not included in all phones).

How does the 780G compare to the Snapdragon 765G?

The 780G is significantly faster: about 40% better CPU and 50% better GPU performance, plus a newer 5nm process for better efficiency.

Can the 780G handle 4K video recording?

Yes, the Spectra 570 ISP supports 4K HDR video capture at 30fps, and 1080p at 120fps. It also supports up to 192MP photo capture.

Is the 780G outdated in 2024?

It’s aging but still capable. For everyday tasks, social media, and light gaming, it’s perfectly fine. But for heavy gaming or future-proofing, newer chips like the 7+ Gen 2 are better.

What phones have the Snapdragon 780G?

Notable examples include the Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G NE, Xiaomi Mi 11 Lite 5G, and some regional models like the Xiaomi 11 Lite 5G (China). Most were released in 2021.

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