Snapdragon X Elite Gen 2: Second-Generation Oryon Cores Expected Performance Boost of Up to 22 Percent Despite Minimal Clock Speed Increase

Qualcomm is gearing up for the launch of its latest mobile chipset, the Snapdragon X Elite Gen 2, which is expected to push performance metrics to new heights. Notably, the Snapdragon X Elite has already demonstrated impressive capabilities, reaching frequencies of up to 4.20 GHz. With the introduction of Qualcomm’s second-generation in-house Oryon cores, the expectation is that the Gen 2 version may achieve even higher clock speeds, albeit with some caveats. Current rumors suggest that while significant frequency increases might be limited, the chipset could still realize a performance enhancement of up to 22%.However, this improvement is context-dependent, which we’ll delve into further below.

Detailing the Snapdragon X Elite Gen 2’s Core Potential

A well-known industry tipster, @Jukanlosreve, recently shared intriguing specifications regarding the Snapdragon X Elite Gen 2 on X. According to their insights, the next-generation Oryon performance cores are expected to operate at clocks peaking at 4.40 GHz. While this increase is modest when compared to the current Snapdragon X Elite, there are indications that further potential exists. For instance, rumors circulate that the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 has demonstrated capabilities of reaching 5.00 GHz, a jump from its predecessor’s 4.32 GHz. This indicates a plausible scenario where the Snapdragon X Elite Gen 2 might also see enhanced performance.

As for the anticipated 18-22% performance uplift, it remains unclear if this estimation pertains exclusively to single-core or multi-core performance. Given the operational frequency of 4.40 GHz, it seems unlikely that such a significant performance delta is achievable unless the configuration includes several of these enhanced cores. Notably, upcoming setups may feature an impressive 18-core architecture, with expectations for its debut projected in 2026.

Second-generation Qualcomm Nuvia: big core clock starts at 4.4GHz, performance improvement estimated at 18–22%.pic.twitter.com/XEc4sPDBm2

— Jukanlosreve (@Jukanlosreve) April 15, 2025

Manufacturing Innovations and Efficiency

The Snapdragon X Elite is currently being mass-produced using TSMC’s 4nm fabrication process, but as rumors suggest, the Snapdragon X Elite Gen 2 could leverage TSMC’s next-gen 3nm technology. This shift could facilitate higher clock speeds while maintaining the efficiency standards that modern users demand. Although the anticipated 22% performance gain seems plausible, it’s essential to approach these rumors with caution until further data surfaces. We’ll continue to monitor developments closely and provide updates as more concrete information becomes available.

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