Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Smashes Records: 4.74 GHz CPU Clock Speed Dominates Dimensity 9500

The smartphone chipset competition has entered a new phase with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite 2. This powerful processor is rumored to reach a remarkable 4.74 GHz in its "for Galaxy" variant, significantly outperforming MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500, which peaks at 4 GHz. Built on TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 features custom Oryon cores, an Adreno 840 GPU, and an AnTuTu score surpassing 4 million, setting a new standard for mobile performance.

While clock speed is a key factor, this chip also excels in efficiency, real-world performance, and AI capabilities. What does this mean for the upcoming Samsung Galaxy S26 and Android flagship devices in 2025? Let’s break down the details.

Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 vs. Dimensity 9500: Detailed Comparison

CPU & Clock Speed: A New Benchmark in Performance

Key Insight:

Qualcomm’s Oryon cores, a result of the Nuvia acquisition, are designed for superior power and efficiency. In contrast, MediaTek relies on Arm’s reference cores. The 4.74 GHz peak clock speed in the Galaxy S26 variant suggests a high level of performance tuning. This chip has already outperformed the Apple A18 Pro in specific benchmarks, proving its dominance. You can read more about this in the article on Snapdragon 8 Elite Beats Apple A18 Pro.

GPU & Gaming: Adreno 840 vs. Mali-G7xx

• Snapdragon 8 Elite 2: Adreno 840 GPU (1.2 GHz clock, ray tracing support, 30% faster than previous generation)

• Dimensity 9500: Mali-G7xx (exact model TBD, approximately 20% slower than Adreno 840)

Why It Matters:

The Adreno 840 GPU, with its higher clock speed and architectural improvements, positions it as the top contender for 4K gaming and VR applications.

Benchmarks: AnTuTu & Geekbench Results

• AnTuTu: Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 scores over 4M points (Dimensity 9500 expected at ~3.5M). For more details, check out the full breakdown in this article on Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 AnTuTu Score Leaked.

• Geekbench 6: Single-core ~2,300, Multi-core ~7,500 (estimated).

Real-World Impact: 

Expect faster app launches, enhanced 8K video editing, and smoother console-level gaming experiences.

Why Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 Outshines Its Rivals

TSMC’s N3P 3nm Process – The Game-Changer

Many competitors mention “3nm” but overlook its real-world benefits:

• 15% better performance at the same power consumption compared to N4P.

• 30% lower power consumption for improved battery life.

• Higher yields, ensuring better chip supply for devices like the Galaxy S26.

For more details on the advanced fabrication technology, visit TSMC’s N3P 3nm process on the TSMC official site.

The “For Galaxy” Advantage – Samsung’s Exclusive Edge

The higher-binned chips (4.74 GHz vs. 4.6 GHz) suggest that the Galaxy S26 will be the fastest Android phone of 2025. Samsung could also implement vapor chamber cooling to manage the additional heat from the enhanced performance.

AI & Machine Learning: Snapdragon’s Hidden Edge

• Hexagon NPU: Next-generation AI performance of 40 TOPS (vs. ~30 TOPS in Dimensity 9500).

• On-device LLMs: Better support for advanced AI models, offering real-time, low-latency responses for tasks like ChatGPT-level interactions.

Frequently Asked Questions: 

1. Will the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 overheat at 4.74 GHz?

Qualcomm’s advanced throttling algorithms and Samsung’s improved cooling solutions should manage heat effectively. Expect occasional peak speeds, similar to Apple’s M-series chips.

2. Is the Dimensity 9500 obsolete? 

Not at all. While the Dimensity 9500 may be less powerful than the Snapdragon 8 Elite 2, it offers solid performance at a lower price, making it a strong contender for mid-range flagships.

3. When will devices with Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 be available? 

The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is expected to be unveiled in late 2025, with the Galaxy S26 likely being the first device to feature this chip in the first quarter of 2025.

Related Articles

• Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 AnTuTu Score Leaked

• Snapdragon 8 Elite Beats Apple A18 Pro

• Qualcomm Snapdragon 8s Gen 4: Unleashing Power with Kryo CPU and Adreno 825 GPU

Conclusion: 

• The Snapdragon 8 Elite 2 is not just faster—it’s a complete mobile powerhouse. 

• Qualcomm’s latest chip sets the stage for the next generation of flagship smartphones, combining cutting-edge 3nm efficiency, advanced AI capabilities, and superior GPU performance. 

• While MediaTek’s Dimensity 9500 is a strong contender, Snapdragon’s custom cores, AI dominance, and strategic partnership with Samsung give it a clear performance edge for 2025 and beyond.