The Snapdragon 845 processor, announced on December 5, 2017, brought a huge leap in mobile computing that boosted performance by 25% compared to earlier versions. The powerful chip powered many flagship smartphones like the Samsung Galaxy S9, Google Pixel 3, and Xiaomi Pocophone F1. Its advanced 8-core architecture features 4 Kryo 385 Gold cores that run at 2.8 GHz.
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845 processor packs about 3 billion transistors using 10-nanometer process technology. The chip excels at gaming and AI processing tasks. Its Adreno 630 GPU renders graphics 30% better than before and captures 4K videos at 60 FPS. The Snapdragon X20 LTE modem can reach download speeds of up to 1.2 Gbps, making it a complete package for high-end mobile devices.
This piece will help you find all the details about the Snapdragon 845 processor. You’ll learn about its technical specs and see a list of phones that use this processor. This information will help you choose your next smartphone wisely.
Understanding the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 Processor
The Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 processor marks a major step forward in mobile computing architecture. Samsung’s second-generation 10-nanometer LPP process technology powers this revolutionary chip.
Key Features and Specifications of SDM845 SoC
The processor’s heart consists of an innovative 8-core Kryo 385 CPU setup. Four high-performance Gold cores run at 2.8 GHz while four efficiency-focused Silver cores operate at 1.8 GHz. The chip combines the powerful Adreno 630 GPU at 710 MHz with Hexagon 685 DSP to improve AI capabilities.
The snapdragon 845 processor memory architecture supports quad-channel LPDDR4X with bandwidth reaching 29.8 GB/s. The built-in Spectra 280 ISP delivers outstanding imaging performance and supports 16 MP cameras at 60 fps.
Performance Improvements Over Previous Generations
The Snapdragon 845 brings major improvements in performance metrics of all types. The Adreno 630’s visual processing system delivers 30% better graphics performance while using 30% less power than its predecessor. The chip excels in gaming and 4K HDR capture scenarios.
The third-generation AI platform processes neural networks three times faster than earlier versions. These improvements enable better camera effects, scene recognition, and XR experiences.
How Snapdragon 845 Changed Mobile Computing
The Snapdragon 845 processor groundbreaking features have redefined what mobile devices can do. The X20 LTE modem pushes download speeds to 1.2 Gbps, a 20% jump from the previous version. The chip’s dedicated Secure Processing Unit (SPU) provides vault-like protection for personal data.
The platform’s multimedia capabilities got a major boost with Ultra HD Premium video capture at 4K resolution and 60 fps. Quick Charge 4+ technology lets users charge their devices to 50% in just 15 minutes.
Complete List of Smartphones with Snapdragon 845
Smartphone makers widely adopted the Snapdragon 845 processor for their flagship devices in 2018. Each brand added their own special features to make the most of this powerful chip.
Samsung Devices with Snapdragon 845
Samsung kicked off the Snapdragon 845 era with its Galaxy S9 and S9 Plus, which became the first smartphones to feature this processor. The Galaxy Note 9 followed later with better specs, giving users a choice between 6GB or 8GB RAM and either 128GB or 512GB storage.
Google Pixel Phones Powered by SDM845
Google launched the Pixel 3 and Pixel 3 XL in October 2018 with similar internal specs. Both phones packed 4GB of RAM and came in 64GB or 128GB storage options. These devices really shined in photography, thanks to the processor’s advanced image processing capabilities.
Chinese Manufacturers’ Implementation (Xiaomi, OnePlus, Oppo)
Xiaomi rolled out several phones with the SDM845. The Mi 8 series and Mi Mix 3 stood out with their innovative designs. The Mi Mix 3 came with a 6.4-inch Super AMOLED display and included a wireless charging pad. OnePlus brought two impressive devices to market – the OnePlus 6 and 6T. The OnePlus 6 featured a 6.28-inch display with 6GB or 8GB RAM options. The 6T built on this foundation with a bigger 6.41-inch display and a more powerful 3,700mAh battery. Oppo joined the party with its R15 and Find X models.
Sony, LG, and Other Brands with Snapdragon 845
Sony’s lineup included the Xperia XZ2, XZ2 Compact, and XZ3 series. The XZ3, released in November 2018, brought better selfie camera features and longer battery life. LG released the G7 ThinQ and V40 ThinQ. The G7 ThinQ remains a solid choice even in 2025, especially for media consumption and photography.
Each brand used the Snapdragon 845’s potential in unique ways. They focused on different strengths like gaming, camera quality, or battery life. This versatile processor let manufacturers create unique experiences while delivering reliable performance.
Specialized Use Cases for Snapdragon 845 Phones
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845 processor shows its strength in photography, gaming, and power management applications.
Best Snapdragon 845 Phones for Mobile Photography
The processor’s Spectra 280 ISP takes mobile photography to new heights. Phones with this chip can capture HDR footage that contains 64 times more color data than standard sensors. The color depth has improved from 8 bits to 10 bits. Samsung’s Galaxy Note 9 leads the pack with its dual-camera setup and a remarkable DxoMark score of 97, plus a photo sub-score of 101 points.
Sony’s XZ2 and XZ2 Compact shine in video performance. These devices pack a 19MP rear camera that records 4K HDR content and captures slow-motion video at 960fps in Full HD. The processor also supports creative features like ImMotion. Users can create unique content that combines moving and static elements in one frame.
Top Gaming Performance on Snapdragon 845 Devices
Games run smoothly on Snapdragon 845 devices. Tests show reliable frame rates:
- PUBG Mobile: 53 FPS at Ultra settings
- Call of Duty Mobile: 55 FPS at High settings
- Fortnite: 28 FPS at Ultra settings
Razer Phone 2 stands out as a gaming powerhouse. It features a 120Hz IGZO LCD 1440p display, 4,000mAh battery, and vapor chamber cooling system.
Battery Efficiency Champions with SDM845
The processor improves power management by 30% compared to earlier models. Quick Charge 4+ technology gives you five hours of battery life from just five minutes of charging. A redesigned architecture helps maintain peak performance while using less power.
Power optimizations make multimedia tasks more efficient, allowing video playback sessions up to 20 hours. The chip delivers three times better graphics performance while using 30% less power. These improvements make AR and VR applications run better.
Buying Guide: Finding the Best Snapdragon 845 Phone in 2025
The year 2025 brings interesting choices to anyone looking for a Snapdragon 845 phone. Let’s get into what the market offers and help you decide if it’s worth your money.
Current Market Availability and Pricing
You’ll find several Snapdragon 845 phones at different price points today. The base variant of Poco F1 is available at ₹12,499, and premium options like LG V40 ThinQ cost ₹52,400. The OnePlus 6T McLaren Edition packs 10GB RAM and 256GB storage at ₹24,990. Budget-conscious buyers might prefer the Poco F1’s 6GB RAM and 128GB storage variant at ₹13,999.
Should You Buy a Snapdragon 845 Phone Today?
Your usage requirements matter the most here. The Snapdragon 845 handles casual gaming and everyday tasks well. Notwithstanding that, here are some key points to think over:
- The 9W TDP rating keeps battery efficiency competitive
- You get 4K video capture at 60FPS
- Display resolution maxes out at 3840 x 2160 pixels
The processor has its limits. It doesn’t support 5G, but you still get LTE Cat. 18 with download speeds up to 1200 Mbps.
Comparing Snapdragon 845 to Newer Processors
The Snapdragon 845 holds its ground in several areas against current alternatives:
- GPU frequency runs at 710 MHz, beating newer mid-range chips
- Memory bandwidth reaches 29.8 GB/s
- CPU clock speed hits 2800 MHz, surpassing some newer processors
Modern processors bring their own advantages. The Snapdragon 778G shows better efficiency and optimization. You might want to look at the 7+ Gen3, 8sGen3, and Dimensity 8200/8300 series, which sell at similar prices.
Used Snapdragon 845 phones offer great value. These devices handle most apps well, but might struggle with demanding new applications or extended software support.
Conclusion
Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 845 proves mobile processing excellence even as newer chips enter the market. The processor’s advanced 10nm architecture and Kryo 385 CPU configuration brought major improvements to gaming, photography, and everyday performance.
Samsung, Google, and Xiaomi demonstrated the chip’s versatility in their flagship devices. Samsung prioritized overall performance. Google focused on camera capabilities. Chinese manufacturers found the sweet spot between features and competitive pricing.
The Snapdragon 845 remains valuable in 2025 for users who want reliable performance at reasonable prices. The processor handles gaming well and manages battery life efficiently. Its Spectra 280 ISP delivers strong imaging results, though it lacks 5G support.
Budget and specific requirements should guide your decision to buy a Snapdragon 845 phone. These devices work great for everyday tasks, casual gaming, and photography, even though newer processors pack more features. The processor’s lasting impact shows how smart engineering creates enduring value in mobile computing.
FAQs
Q1. Which smartphones feature the Snapdragon 845 processor? Several flagship devices from 2018 use the Snapdragon 845, including the Samsung Galaxy S9 and Note 9, Google Pixel 3 series, OnePlus 6 and 6T, Xiaomi Mi 8 series, and Sony Xperia XZ2 and XZ3 models.
Q2. Is the Snapdragon 845 still a viable option in 2025? The Snapdragon 845 remains capable for everyday tasks and casual gaming. While it lacks 5G support and may struggle with the latest demanding applications, it offers good performance for budget-conscious users, especially in refurbished or used devices.
Q3. What are the key features of the Snapdragon 845 processor? The Snapdragon 845 features an 8-core Kryo 385 CPU, Adreno 630 GPU, support for 4K video capture at 60 FPS, AI processing capabilities, and download speeds up to 1.2 Gbps with its X20 LTE modem.
Q4. How does the Snapdragon 845 compare to newer processors? While newer processors offer improved efficiency and 5G support, the Snapdragon 845 still competes well in areas like GPU frequency and memory bandwidth. It remains a solid choice for users who don’t require cutting-edge features or 5G connectivity.
Q5. What are the best Snapdragon 845 phones for mobile photography? Devices like the Samsung Galaxy Note 9 and Sony Xperia XZ2 series excel in mobile photography with the Snapdragon 845. These phones leverage the chip’s Spectra 280 ISP for features like 4K HDR video recording and advanced color depth in photos.
