When it comes to smartphones, Qualcomm has long been the reigning champion with its Snapdragon processors powering many of the best devices globally. But as we approach 2025, the landscape is shifting dramatically. The rise of impressive chip manufacturers like MediaTek, Samsung Exynos, and Apple Silicon means my favorite phones this year steer clear of Qualcomm altogether.
In this article, I’m diving deep into why my top picks for 2025 smartphones are powered by alternatives to Qualcomm, exploring the strengths of these chips, and highlighting models that combine stellar performance, efficiency, and innovation without relying on Snapdragon processors.
Why Qualcomm Is Not My Go-To Chip in 2025
Qualcomm Snapdragon has been synonymous with premium smartphones for over a decade. With robust performance, excellent 5G integration, and wide adoption by brands, Snapdragon chips have long dominated the high-end market.
However, in 2025, several key shifts have influenced my preferences:
- Increased competition with advanced alternatives: MediaTek’s Dimensity 9200+, Samsung’s Exynos 2400, and Apple’s A17 Bionic are setting new benchmarks in performance and power efficiency.
- Better integration and optimization: Apple’s silicon offers unmatched synergy with iOS. MediaTek and Exynos have improved dramatically with better driver support and thermal management.
- Pricing and value: Many phones using MediaTek or Exynos chips now deliver flagship-level performance at a more accessible price.
- Innovation and sustainability: These chipmakers are leading in areas like AI acceleration, camera processing, and energy efficiency—sometimes outpacing Qualcomm.
The Rise of MediaTek: A Powerful Qualcomm Alternative
MediaTek Dimensity 9200+ – A Game Changer in 2025
MediaTek has transformed from a budget chipmaker to a top-tier performance leader. The Dimensity 9200+ exemplifies this leap:
- Performance: Built on a 4nm process with Cortex-X3 cores, it rivals Snapdragon 8 Gen 2.
- Energy efficiency: Optimized for extended battery life without sacrificing performance.
- Gaming and AI: Excellent GPU and AI processing make it a favorite for gamers and power users.
Top Phones: OnePlus Ace 3, Realme GT Neo 6
Samsung Exynos: A Solid Contender for Android Phones
Samsung Exynos 2400 – Bridging Power and Efficiency
The Exynos 2400 is a strong return to form for Samsung’s in-house chip division:
- Flagship-grade technology: Built on a 4nm node with improved clocks and AI capabilities.
- Imaging excellence: Supports ultra-high-res sensors and real-time computational photography.
- 5G integration: Efficient modem with excellent global coverage.
- Galaxy optimization: Tuned for performance in the Galaxy S25 and Note series.
Samsung’s independence from Qualcomm gives it tighter control over performance and user experience.
Apple Silicon Remains Unmatched in the Smartphone Chip Race
The A17 Bionic – Still Leading in 2025
Apple’s A17 Bionic continues to dominate thanks to deep software-hardware integration:
- Industry-best performance: Based on a 3nm process, it powers the iPhone 15 Pro series with exceptional speed.
- Custom architecture: Smooth iOS performance and top-tier energy efficiency.
- Neural capabilities: AI and machine learning elevate user interactions from Siri to photo processing.
Apple’s use of its own modems and architecture means complete independence from Qualcomm’s ecosystem.
Top Phones of 2025 That Don’t Use Qualcomm Snapdragon Chips
- Apple iPhone 15 Pro / Pro Max
- Powered by the A17 Bionic
- Best-in-class performance, battery life, and camera AI
- Samsung Galaxy S25 Series
- Uses Exynos 2400 in many markets
- Outstanding multitasking, imaging, and connectivity
- OnePlus Ace 3
- Dimensity 9200+ processor
- Excellent gaming and flagship features at a lower price
- Realme GT Neo 6
- Also powered by Dimensity 9200+
- Offers balanced performance and value
Why Choosing Non-Qualcomm Phones Might Be the Smarter Choice in 2025
Switching away from Snapdragon chips can bring major benefits:
- More options at competitive prices
- Specialized features like superior AI or camera performance
- Improved system-wide integration
- Greater competition drives innovation across the board
While Qualcomm has led the mobile chipset race for years, 2025 shows that it’s no longer the only path to premium performance. MediaTek, Samsung, and Apple are delivering alternative solutions that challenge—and often beat—Snapdragon in real-world usage.
If you’re in the market for a new phone this year, don’t ignore the powerhouses running on Dimensity, Exynos, or Apple Silicon. They might just redefine what flagship performance means for you.