Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra: Exynos 990 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 865
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra is a high-end smartphone that has gained significant interest in the Indian market. However, among its many distinguishing features, the type of System on a Chip (SoC) used is a major factor that differentiates units sold in India from those sold in other regions.
While units sold in regions such as the United States are equipped with the powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 SoC, the Indian variant of the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra is powered by the Exynos 990 SoC. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the differences and implications of this choice.
Exynos 990 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 865: Key Differences
The Exynos 990 SoC, used in the Indian markets, is not just a less powerful variant than its Qualcomm counterpart. It also lacks support for 5G bands, meaning the Indian version of the S20 Ultra is a 4G-only device.
Compared to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865, the performance difference is notable. Most tech enthusiasts and consumers find this a significant drawback, especially given the premium price tag on such high-end devices. For many, the ability to use the device in the current 4G network with no plans for 5G support in the immediate future seems less appealing.
Why the Shift to Exynos 990?
One of the primary reasons for the use of Exynos 990 in the Indian market is that it is compatible with the local network infrastructure and is specifically designed for the Indian market. The Exynos 990SoC is known for its efficiency and compatibility with the specific requirements of the Indian network, ensuring a better user experience.
Furthermore, the Exynos 990 has been criticized in the past for its performance, particularly during the 51st Annual Shareholders Meet. However, there is hope on the horizon, as the upcoming AMD GPU upgrades are expected to significantly boost the Exynos 990's performance in the future. This could make the Indian version of the S20 Ultra more future-proof, aligning closer with the expectations of consumers.
Conclusion and Future Prospects
The Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra, available in the Indian market with the Exynos 990 SoC, presents a mixed bag for potential buyers. While it is certainly a high-end device, the lack of 5G support in the current market and the need for future GPU upgrades present challenges. For those who prioritize immediate 5G capabilities, units with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 SoC in other regions may be more appealing.
However, for users focused on long-term compatibility and efficiency, the Exynos 990 SoC offers a solid choice. It’s also important to keep an eye on future enhancements, as the upcoming improvements in AMD GPU technology could bridge the gap between the current performance of the Exynos 990 and its more powerful rival, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 865.
In summary, the choice between the Exynos 990 andQualcomm Snapdragon 865 in the Samsung Galaxy S20 Ultra depends on your specific needs. If you are in the Indian market and prioritize compatibility with local network infrastructure, the Exynos 990 might be the better option. But for those looking for the best immediate performance and 5G capabilities, it's worth considering the alternatives available in other regions.