Is Snapdragon 870 5G processor good for playing games?

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The Snapdragon 870, released in 2021, was a powerful 7 nm process upper-mid-range Octa-core processor designed for premium performance without the flagship price tag. But how does it stack up in today's mobile gaming landscape? This guide dives deep into whether the 870 5G processor is fit for gaming in 2024.

Snapdragon 870 Main Specs

• Processor: Kryo 585 8-core CPU (1x prime core + 3x performance cores + 4x efficiency cores)
• Graphics: Adreno 619 GPU
• Manufacturing process: 7nm (smaller transistors lead to better performance and efficiency)

Gaming Performance:

• Capable of handling demanding games: The Snapdragon 870 can run most modern games at high settings with a smooth and consistent frame rate (fps).
• Balances power and efficiency: Compared to the flagship Snapdragon 888, the 870 offers slightly less raw power but may provide better thermal management and battery life during extended gaming sessions.

Benchmark references:

• PUBG Mobile: playable at smooth/extreme settings (~60 fps)
• Call of Duty: Mobile: playable at very high settings (~60 fps)
• Fortnite: playable at high settings (~45-60 fps). Related: Fortnite vs Minecraft, and Minecraft vs Roblox, and Minecraft vs Real Life, and Roblox vs Fortnite.

Other references:

• Snapdragon 870 Antutu score and release date

Factors Affecting Gaming Experience:

• Game optimization: How well a game is optimized for the Snapdragon 870 can significantly impact performance.
• Device RAM and storage: More RAM allows for smoother multitasking during gaming, while faster storage reduces loading times.
• Thermal throttling: Under heavy load, the phone's cooling system can affect performance. A well-cooled phone can help maintain higher frame rates for longer.

Tips for Better Gaming with Snapdragon 870:

• Adjust graphics settings: You can fine-tune graphics settings to find the balance between visual quality and frame rate.
• Close background apps: Free up system resources by closing unnecessary apps before gaming. Remove some unuseful apps if you need more space.
• Enable Game Mode (if available): Some phones have a gaming mode that optimizes performance and reduces distractions.
• Monitor thermals (if possible): Some phones allow monitoring device temperature. If your phone gets too hot, consider taking a break or using a cooling accessory.

Who is the Snapdragon 870 for (gamers)?

• Mobile gamers who want high-performance: If you prioritize smooth gameplay and high frame rates in demanding titles, the Snapdragon 870 is a great choice.
• Gamers on a budget: Compared to the latest flagship processors, the 870 offers excellent performance at a more affordable price point. However, if you are a rugged smartphone lover, you might can't find a rugged phone that equipped with this processor.

Alternatives for the Most Demanding Gamers:

If you absolutely require the top-of-the-line mobile gaming experience, consider phones with the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 or 8 Gen 2 processor on a high budget. It offers stronger performance over the 870 but might be future-proof for even more demanding games to come.

The Verdict: A Strong Contender for Mobile Gamers

The Snapdragon 870 is an excellent processor for mobile gaming in 2024. It delivers high performance, can handle demanding games at high settings, and offers better battery life than some flagships.

Future-proofing your choice:

When considering a phone, look for benchmarks and reviews specifically testing the Snapdragon 870's gaming performance. If possible, try out games on a device with the 870 to see if the performance meets your expectations.

By considering these factors, you can decide if the Snapdragon 870 is the right choice for your mobile gaming needs.