Are you excited about MediaTek Dimensity 9500s Vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5? If yes, we have the ultimate comparison today! MediaTek has launched a new chipset called Dimensity 9500s on January 15, 2026. This processor is powerful but also more affordable. It is made for flagship and premium smartphones. The Dimensity 9500s is going to compete with the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. This Snapdragon chip was launched earlier on September 25, 2025. In fact, it is already used in many high-end phones.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is known for its strong performance and advanced CPU design. On the other hand, the Dimensity 9500s comes with an all-big-core design and improved AI features. Both processors are very powerful, but they use different technologies. In this article, we will compare both chipsets to understand which one performs better and which one is the best choice.
Also Read: MediaTek Dimensity 8500 Phones: Best Options Explained!
MediaTek Dimensity 9500s Vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5: Ultimate Comparison
When it comes to MediaTek Dimensity 9500s Vs Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, it all comes down to design, power, and performance in real-life use. Both processors are made using advanced 3nm technology.
The Dimensity 9500s use TSMC’s N3E process. On the other hand, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 uses the newer N3P process. To be honest, it is slightly more efficient. Because of this, both chipsets offer strong performance and good user experience. Let’s see more details:
| Feature | MediaTek Dimensity 9500s | Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 |
|---|---|---|
| Process Node | TSMC 3nm (N3E) | TSMC 3nm (N3P) |
| CPU | 1× Cortex-X925 @ 3.73 GHz3× Cortex-X4 @ 3.30 GHz4× Cortex-A720 @ 2.40 GHz | 2× Oryon Prime @ 4.6 GHz6× Oryon Performance @ 3.62 GHz |
| GPU | Immortalis-G925 (11–12 cores) with ray tracing | Adreno 840 with ray tracing |
| NPU / AI | MediaTek NPU for generative AI and agentic tasks | Qualcomm Hexagon NPU with 37% faster performance |
| Memory Support | LPDDR5X up to 9600 Mbps, up to 24 GB | LPDDR5X up to 5300 MHz, up to 24 GB |
| Modem | Integrated 5G, up to 10.7 Gbps downloads | X85 5G, up to 12.5 Gbps downloads |
| ISP | Imagiq (18-bit), up to 320 MP camera, 8K@60 fps video | Spectra Triple AI (20-bit), up to 320 MP camera, 8K@60 fps / 4K@120 fps video |
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is slightly better in terms of CPU speed and overall power. It has two prime cores. In tests like Geekbench 6, the Snapdragon scores higher than the Dimensity 9500s. This was seen in both single-core and multi-core performance.
In AnTuTu, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 scores more than 4 million points. The Dimensity 9500s scores around 3.3 to 3.4 million points. This shows that the Snapdragon processor is stronger in overall performance tests.
Also Read: Best OPPO Reno15 Alternatives: Smarter Choices!
But How’s The Performance?
Early tests show that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is much faster than its previous version. It offers up to 25% better performance in both CPU and GPU. It also has a stronger AI processor (NPU). NPU basically helps in voice recognition, camera improvements, and smart features.
The MediaTek Dimensity 9500s uses an all-big-core design. It has a larger 16MB L3 cache if you compare it to the Snapdragon’s 8MB cache. This helps the phone stay cooler and reduce delays during browsing and app switching.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is better for users who want maximum power. But, the Dimensity 9500s is a great choice for good performance at a lower cost.
Top Phones Featuring These Processors
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 already has a strong presence in many flagship phones released in 2025 or 2026. But the MediaTek Dimensity 9500s is a latest launch. It is slowly entering the market through premium devices.
Phones With MediaTek Dimensity 9500s
| Phone Model | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Xiaomi Redmi Turbo 5 Max | Budget-friendly flagship, includes NFC and IR blaster |
| Poco X8 Pro Max | Gaming-focused, large battery, good display |
Phones With Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
| Phone Model | Key Highlights |
|---|---|
| Xiaomi 17 Series | Among the first with this chip, extremely fast charging |
| OnePlus 15 | Premium build, 7,300mAh battery, smooth OxygenOS experience |
| Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra | Advanced Galaxy AI features, S Pen support |
| iQOO 15 | High-performance gaming phone, high refresh-rate display |
| Realme GT8 Pro | More affordable flagship, strong thermal/cooling system |
Also Read: iQOO 15 Vs OnePlus 15: Price, Specs, All Details!
Which Is Better For Gaming?
Gaming performance depends on graphics power, heat control, and smooth frame rates. The MediaTek Dimensity 9500s uses the Immortalis-G925 GPU. It supports advanced features like ray tracing and smart gaming technology. It can reach up to 165 FPS in supported games and stays cooler during long gaming sessions.
In stress tests, the Dimensity 9500s show better stability. It’s clear that it can maintain performance for a longer time without slowing down.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 comes with the Adreno 840 GPU. This one offers higher peak graphics performance and faster frame rates in short gaming sessions. However, it uses more power and heats up faster. If you play it for a long duration, this can cause the phone to slow down due to overheating.
Which Is Better For Multitasking?
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 uses a powerful custom Oryon CPU with 2 prime cores and 6 performance cores. This helps it switch between apps faster and manage heavy tasks like editing, gaming, and AI features. Its high 4.6GHz speed makes it better for high-end work. Imagine you have to edit a presentation, check cricket scores, and update buildings in Clash Of Clans at the same time! This chip can easily handle it all.
The MediaTek Dimensity 9500s uses an all-big-core design. It also has a larger cache to open apps smoothly and reducing delays. However, its lower top speed means it is slightly slower in heavy multitasking tests. The Dimensity 9500s handles daily tasks very well.
Which Is Better For Camera Capabilities?
The MediaTek Dimensity 9500s have an 18-bit Imagiq ISP. It can handle up to 320MP cameras and record 8K video at 60fps. This one uses AI for motion tracking and photography. It works very well in low-light and HDR conditions.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 has a 20-bit Spectra Triple AI ISP. It supports real-time scene recognition, Truepic capture, and 4K slow-motion at 120fps. There are advanced video features like super-resolution and unlimited bokeh.
Also Read: OnePlus 15 Vs iPhone 17: Which One Should You Choose?
Which Is More Battery Efficient?
Battery efficiency is where the Dimensity 9500s shines. Its N3E process and all-big-core design use less power. Phones with this processor are definitely going to last long even for heavy users.
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is 35% more efficient than its predecessor. But, it can use up to 22W at peak performance. This basically drains the battery faster during heavy tasks. Its N3P process helps save battery while idle.
FAQs
Can the Dimensity 9500s outperform the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5?
Not in raw CPU performance. Snapdragon is up to 13% faster in benchmarks. But the Dimensity 9500s is very efficient with its GPU and heat management.
Which chipset is better value?
The Dimensity 9500s is better value. It is made for affordable flagship phones and gives strong performance at a lower cost.
Is the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 worth the extra price?
Yes, if you need maximum CPU power, advanced AI, or video features. The Dimensity 9500s provides almost the same experience for less money.
How do they compare in AI tasks? Both are very capable.
The Snapdragon’s Hexagon NPU is about 37% faster in agentic AI tasks. The Dimensity 9500s focuses more on generative AI and photography improvements.
Which has better 5G connectivity?
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 has the faster X85 modem. It supports up to 12.5Gbps downloads and wider mmWave coverage.
Final Thoughts
In this comparison, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 comes out on top overall. It is stronger in CPU performance and has more advanced camera and video features. You can get the highest gaming performance. It is perfect for ultra-premium phones and users who want the absolute best in speed and AI capabilities.
The MediaTek Dimensity 9500s is still very impressive. It is more battery-efficient. The best part is that it stays cooler during long use. Let me know what you think about both the chipsets in the comments section below. I would love to hear your thoughts.
If you’ve just bought a new phone and don’t know what to do with your old phone, then here’s your answer. Sell old mobile to Cashify and get the best price for it. If you are planning to buy a new phone, check out Cashify’s refurbished mobile phones. You can get your favourite phone at almost half price with six-month warranty, 15 days refund and free delivery.
