Exynos 2600 for Galaxy S26 Could Cost Less than Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
Samsung is ready to launch the Galaxy S26 lineup which includes three upcoming non foldable flagship phones: the S26, S26+ and the S26 Ultra. Reports suggest that Samsung will offer the S26 and S26+ with the Exynos 2600 chip in most parts of the world. However, in some regions these two models might come with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset. Samsung is rumored to launch this premium model worldwide with Qualcomm chips only, avoiding the use of an Exynos version altogether.
We now have some information about how much both chipsets cost and this helps explain why Samsung may be choosing to use its own in house processor more widely. The decision likely comes down to managing costs and keeping prices competitive.
Samsung May Pay $20 to $30 Less for Exynos 2600 Compared to Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5
According to Chosen Biz, Samsung MX which is responsible for developing the company’s phones has requested that Samsung System LSI supply the Exynos 2600 for the Galaxy S26 series at a more affordable rate. For the Galaxy S26 series they want this chip to cost $20 to $30 less than Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5.
Should the discussions succeed, Samsung may be able to manufacture the Galaxy S26 models with the Exynos 2600 at a cheaper cost than those with Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5. It remains unknown whether customers will benefit from the lower production cost.
Rising Component Costs Could Mean Samsung Keeps Price Savings to Itself
A recent report suggests that with component costs rising, Samsung is more focused on keeping the Galaxy S26 series priced similar to its last edition than on including the best possible upgrades. As a result, it appears that customers are unlikely to benefit from the reduced cost of the Exynos 2600.
Just because the Exynos 2600 is cheaper than the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 doesn’t mean that it is an inferior chipset. Samsung System LSI may be offering it to Samsung MX at a lower price to make it more attractive. This approach could help Samsung generate more income while also giving Exynos a chance to return as a competitive chipset in the market.
