The Tensor G2 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 are two of the most potent and advanced processors currently available for mobile devices. These CPUs were created, respectively, by Qualcomm and Google. In this post, we’ll evaluate the features, performance, and capabilities of these two processors and compare them.
The Pixel 6 series proved to be a turning point for Google with its improved cameras, competitive pricing, and first-ever bespoke system on a chip (SoC), Tensor, introduced with the device. Google’s new Pixel 7 series picks off where the Pixel 6 left off with the same price and same cameras, but a new Tensor G2 CPU. The Tensor G2’s AI capabilities, which enable a number of cutting-edge features including improved speech recognition and picture processing, are one of its most striking features.
The latest product from Qualcomm, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, has a number of qualities that make it a strong competitor in the market. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is distinguished by its 4 nm manufacturing process, which makes it more compact, quick, and effective than earlier versions. Additionally, it includes an integrated 5G modem for ultra-fast internet.
Google Tensor G2 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: Specifications
| Processors | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Google Tensor G2 |
| Release Date | November 2022 | October 2022 |
| CPU Architecture | 1 x 3.19 GHz ARM Cortex-X3 2 x 2.8 GHz ARM Cortex-A7 15 2 x 2.8 GHz ARM Cortex-A710 3 x Kryo Efficiency cores @ 2.0GHz | 2 x ARM Cortex-X1 2.85GHz 2 x ARM Cortex A78 2.35GHz 4 x ARM Cortex-A55 1.8GHz |
| Chipset technology | 4nm | 5nm |
| GPU | Adreno 740 | ARM Mali G710 MP07 |
| Modem | Snapdragon X70 | Samsung G5300B modem |
| Peak Upload Speed | Up to 10 Gbps | Up to 6 Gbps |
Google Tensor G2 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: CPU
Both processors are quite quick and powerful in terms of raw performance. One power core (1x Cortex-X3) with a CPU speed of 3.2GHz, four modest efficiency cores (2x Cortex-A710) and (2x Cortex-A715), and an octa-core CPU are all included with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
The Tensor G2 on the other hand, has a tri-cluster CPU. It is equipped with an Octa-core CPU with four small efficiency cores (4x Cortex-A55) and a CPU speed of 1.80GHz, two power cores (2x Cortex-X1) with a CPU speed of 2.85GHz, two big efficiency cores (2x Cortex-A78) with a CPU speed of 2.35GHz, and two power-efficient cores (2x Cortex-X1).
As opposed to the Tensor G2, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset offers faster and more potent CPU and GPU cores. As was already mentioned, the Tensor G2 has a Cortex X1 power CPU, but the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 has a more recent Cortex X3 power CPU. The same is true for the other six efficiency cores. It should be noted that this does not indicate that the CPU cores of the Tensor G2 are slow or ineffective. The Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 chipsets are just suggested to be superior. The Geekbench results for the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 and Google Tensor G2 chipsets are displayed in the table below.
Benchmarks and Gaming FPS:
| Processors | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 | Google Tensor G2 |
| Geekbench 5 (Multi-core) | 4976 | 3243 |
| Geekbench 5 (Single-core) | 1498 | 1063 |
| AnTuTu 9 Score | 1283247 | 798707 |
| 3D Mark (Stability) | 95% | 71% |
| 3D Mark (Graphics test) | 76 FPS | 38 FPS |
| 3DMark (Final Score) | 12726 | 6401 |
Google Tensor G2 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: GPU & Gaming
Both the Tensor G2 and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 are top-tier mobile CPUs built for high-performance computing. Both of these processors can produce fluid and lifelike gaming experiences in terms of GPU and game performance. There are some distinctions between the two, though.
Speaking of which, the Adreno 740 GPU included in the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 is a major upgrade over its predecessor, present in the prior generation. The 740 GPU is a fantastic option for demanding gaming applications since it provides up to 25% faster graphics rendering. While the Google Tensor G2 uses a Tensor Processing Unit (TPU) designed specifically for AI and machine learning workloads with a Mali-G710 MC10 GPU. The Tensor G2 may considerably enhance the visual appeal of games that make use of this technology by supporting advanced features like ray tracing.
Overall, both processors are an excellent choice for gaming and offer excellent performance. However, the Snapdragon 8 gen 2 may have a slight edge over the Tensor G2 when it comes to GPU and gaming performance. Because the Adreno 740 GPU offered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 renders graphics more quickly and can operate at peak performance for longer.
Google Tensor G2 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: Compatibility
When it comes to features and capabilities, both processors have a lot to offer. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 comes with features such as Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, and supports for up to 200MP cameras. The Tensor G2, on the other hand, also has a number of advanced AI capabilities, such as real-time language translation and improved voice recognition. It also comes with Google’s new Material You design language, which offers a more personalized and customizable user experience.
Image Signal Processing
Tensor G2 may not have performed very well in terms of GPU performance, but when it comes to image processing (ISP), it beats Snapdragon. Google offers cinematic blur for movies, 2-times faster Night Sight photography, and 10-bit HDR capability. Additionally, it features active stabilisation using both hardware and software in 4K at 60 frames per second across all of the cameras.
The ISP on the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 offers an 18-bit triple ISP design. It can take 3.2 gigapixels per second pictures and enables 8K HDR recording. Despite the fact that both ISPs are strong, Google wins since it offers more interesting camera features.
Google Tensor G2 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: Connectivity
A similar range of connectivity options is provided by both chipsets. Both chipsets support 5G connectivity even though they each house a unique 5G MODEM. The Tensor G2 includes a Samsung G5300B 5G MODEM, whereas the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 has its own Snapdragon X70 modem.
Both chipsets also support NFC, Bluetooth 5.3, GPS, Ultra Wideband (UWB), an online payment system, Wi-Fi 6E, and other connectivity options. The Tensor G2 is projected to have a peak download speed of around 6Gbps, whereas the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 2 has a peak download speed of up to 10Gbps.
Google Tensor G2 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 2: Conclusion
As a result, both the Tensor G2 and the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 are capable processors that provide a variety of functions and capabilities. In the end, which of these two processors you choose will rely on your own requirements and tastes, as well as the device they will be put in. The Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset is your best option if you’re looking for a smartphone with a lot of processing power or one that can be used for gaming. This is a result of the faster CPU and GPU cores in the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
Although the Tensor G2 chipset is not as powerful as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, it more than makes up for it with extra AI functions and a superior ISP. These features are simple but immensely useful for regular users, while still maintaining a chipset with reasonable performance. Thus, Pixel devices are the way to go if you want a customised user experience, greater camera functions, and cutting-edge AI capabilities.