These days mobile processor has become an important criterion. Especially if we’re notching up our budget just to get the best features in a phone.This brings us to compare the two chips that power the phones in this range. We are talking about Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Vs Dimensity 8400 Ultra. Two flagship processors are commonly found in premium-range phones. Even though the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 was released in 2023 and the Dimensity 8400 Ultra, launched in late 2024, they are still desirable.
But which of these suits your needs? Let’s find that out through this detailed comparison so that you can choose your next mobile smartly.
Also read: Redmi 15 Vs POCO M7 Plus: Best Budget Phone Under Rs.15,000? Full Comparison!
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Vs Dimensity 8400 Ultra: Key Specifications
Before we start, let’s get an overview of the key specifications to compare the chips:
| Feature | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Dimensity 8400 Ultra |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Configuration | 1x Cortex-X4 @ 3.3GHz 3x Cortex-A720 @ 3.2GHz 2x Cortex-A720 @ 3.0GHz 2x Cortex-A520 @ 2.3GHz | 1x Cortex-A725 @ 3.25GHz 3x Cortex-A725 @ 3.0GHz 4x Cortex-A725 @ 2.2GHz (efficiency-tuned) |
| GPU | Adreno 750 (up to 900MHz, supports ray tracing) | Mali-G720 MC7 (up to 1300MHz) |
| Manufacturing Process | 4nm TSMC | 4nm TSMC |
| RAM Support | LPDDR5X up to 24GB @ 4800MHz | LPDDR5X @ 4267MHz |
| Storage Support | UFS 4.0 | UFS 4.0 |
| 5G Modem | Snapdragon X75 (up to 10Gbps downlink) | Integrated (up to 5.17Gbps downlink) |
| Wi-Fi/Bluetooth | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 | Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4 |
| ISP (Image Signal Processor) | Triple 18-bit Spectra (up to 200MP, 8K video) | Imagiq ISP (up to 320MP or 3x32MP @30FPS, 4K60 video) |
| AI Engine | Qualcomm AI Engine (up to 10 TOPS) | MediaTek APU (enhanced for Gen-AI) |
| Display Support | 240Hz display support | 144Hz WQHD+ display support |
| Other Features | Hardware ray tracing, AV1 decode | Hardware ray tracing |
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3’s heterogeneous core setup makes the chip an all-rounder. It can handle varied workloads. The Dimensity 8400 Ultra’s uniform Cortex-A725 cores (clocked differently for efficiency) provide better performance compared to the previous ones.
Also read: Exynos 2500 Vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 3? Find Out Which Is Faster!
Performance Breakdown: CPU, GPU, and Benchmarks
Both processors are built using the latest 4nm technology. They are powerful and use less battery. So in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 vs Dimensity 8400 Ultra comparison, you can expect strong performance from both. However, their architecture (the way the CPU cores are designed) is quite different.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 uses a mix of core types:
- One super-fast core for heavy tasks
- Several medium cores for everyday work
- A few power-saving cores for simple tasks
This setup helps Snapdragon balance speed and battery life.
Dimensity 8400 Ultra uses performance-focused cores that run at different speeds. This gives more raw power but can use a little more battery.
CPU Performance
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 edges out in single-core tasks. Thanks to its core efficiency, which ranked it higher in Geekbench single-core tests. This makes it ideal for quick-response apps like browsing or light editing.
In multi-core scenarios, both are neck-and-neck. The Dimensity’s all-big-core design helps the device multitask like a pro. If your needs involve heavy productivity (e.g., video rendering or coding on the go), the Snapdragon might feel smoother. However, the Dimensity provides excellent value for everyday multi-app use.
Also read: Exynos 2400 Vs Snapdragon 8 Elite: 2025’s Best Mobile Processor Revealed!
GPU and Gaming Performance
Gaming is where the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 pulls ahead significantly. Its Adreno 750 GPU delivers up to 50 per cent better graphics performance. Talk about demanding titles, with superior ray tracing and frame rates in games like Genshin Impact or PUBG Mobile. You can often sustain 60-90 FPS at max settings.
The Dimensity 8400 Ultra’s GPU can run most games smoothly at 60 FPS with good heat control. However, it is weaker in raw graphics power and may slow down in long sessions. Snapdragon handles heavy, extended gaming better. For casual gaming, Dimensity is enough and also saves more battery.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Vs Dimensity 8400 Ultra: Benchmark Scores
| Benchmark | Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 (approx) | Dimensity 8400 Ultra(approx) | Winner Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| AnTuTu v10 | 2,052,015 | 1,642,252 | Snapdragon higher overall |
| Geekbench 6 Single-Core | 2,193 | 1571 | Snapdragon |
| Geekbench 6 Multi-Core | 7,304 | 6,033 | Snapdragon better |
| 3DMark Wild Life Extreme | 4,500 (peak) | 3,800 (peak) | Snapdragon (superior GPU) |
| GFXBench Manhattan | 180 FPS | 150 FPS | Snapdragon (for high-end graphics) |
These scores clearly show the superiority of Snapdragon’s flagship power. However, the Dimensity closes the gap in value segments. At least it outperforms older flagships like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
Also Read: Mediatek Dimensity 9300 Vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 3: Performance, Gaming, AI And More!
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Vs Dimensity 8400 Ultra: Efficiency and Battery Life
Dimensity 8400 ultra, due to its design, has a stronger suit in power-saving. No matter if you are playing a 4k video or browsing for hours. This chip can make your phone last longer on a single charge. So if you are someone who prioritises constant phone use for a mix of tasks rather than just gaming, Dimensity 8400 provides value. Since Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 draws more power for GPU-intensive tasks, it can lead to warmer devices.
So, analysing Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Vs Dimensity 8400 Ultra on battery efficiency, Dimensity takes the lead.
AI, Camera, and Additional Features
AI is now an important feature in phone processors. Even though the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 came out in 2023, it is still very strong in AI. In fact, its AI is more powerful than the Dimensity 8400 Ultra. This means it can do live translation, smart photo editing, and other on-device AI tasks faster. It is especially useful for creators who edit photos or make content on their phones.
The Dimensity 8400 Ultra also has good AI performance. It can handle modern AI features well.
When it comes to cameras, both processors support high-quality photography. Snapdragon performs better in low-light photos. This is because of its Spectra ISP and also supports 8K video recording. On the other hand, Dimensity is better at HDR video.
For internet and connectivity, Snapdragon again takes the lead with faster 5G speeds and Wi-Fi 7.
Also read: Samsung Exynos 1380 Vs Snapdragon 695: Which One Should You Choose In 2025?
Which Phones Can You Choose Based On these Two Chips?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Phones
This chip is built for gaming phones. It powers some of the best flagships. Some of them are Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, OnePlus 12, Xiaomi 14, Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6, and so on. Yes, they are not the latest devices in the market, but in 2026, they still hold value as premium phones. Many users wait for the price drop that happens when the new device in a series is releases.
Dimensity 8400 Ultra Phones
As we have mentioned, they are focused on upper mid-range, value-packed devices. So, you get to see this chip in Poco X7 Pro, Redmi Turbo 4, Realme GT 7T, iQOO Z10 Turbo and so on. These appeal to cost-conscious buyers who want near-flagship speed. Plus, there’s a flair for gaming as well.
Also read: Best Phones With 1M+ AnTuTu Score Under 25000!
FAQs
Why is the mobile processor important when buying a phone?
The processor is like the brain of the phone. It decides how fast apps open, how well games run, how long the battery lasts, and even how good the camera works. A good processor means a smoother phone experience.
Which processor is newer?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 was released in 2023. Dimensity 8400 Ultra was released in 2024. So, the Dimensity 8400 Ultra is newer.
Which processor has a better CPU?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is slightly faster for everyday tasks. Dimensity 8400 Ultra is better when many apps are running at the same time.
Which processor is better for gaming?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is better for gaming. Its Adreno 750 GPU gives higher FPS and smoother performance in Genshin Impact and PUBG.
What about benchmark scores?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 gets higher scores in tests like AnTuTu, Geekbench, and 3DMark.
Which processor uses less battery?
Dimensity 8400 Ultra is more power-efficient. It uses less battery for normal tasks and long videos.
Which processor has better AI performance?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 has stronger AI. It is faster at things like live translation, editing photos, and running AI apps.
Which one is better for camera quality?
Both are good. Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 is better for low-light photos and supports 8K video. Dimensity 8400 Ultra is good for HDR video.
What about internet and connectivity?
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 supports faster 5G and Wi-Fi 7. Dimensity 8400 Ultra supports Wi-Fi 6E and has slightly slower 5G speeds.
Which phones use Snapdragon 8 Gen 3?
Phones like Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra, OnePlus 12, Xiaomi 14, and Galaxy Z Fold 6.
Which phones have Dimensity 8400 Ultra?
Phones like Poco X7 Pro, Redmi Turbo 4, Realme GT 7T, and iQOO Z10 Turbo.
Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Vs Dimensity 8400 Ultra: Final Verdict
If you’re after the absolute best in gaming, AI, and connectivity, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 can be your choice. It really powers true flagships. It’s ideal for needs like professional photography, console-level gaming, or heavy AI apps. Most importantly, it is for buyers who are looking for quality, brand name, regardless of the cost.
For balanced performance, better efficiency, and value, the Dimensity 8400 Ultra stands out. You can find many mid-range phones with this chip. They are going to be perfect for everyday users, casual gamers. Also, for those prioritising battery life. without sacrificing too much speed. Ultimately, your choice depends on budget and phone ecosystem and test devices in person for the best fit!
Also read: Best MediaTek Processors Ranked: From Flagship To Budget!
Which one would you choose in Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 Vs Dimensity 8400 Ultra? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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