When selecting a smartphone, the choice of processor significantly influences performance, efficiency, and overall user experience. Two prominent contenders in the mid-range segment are Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 685 and MediaTek’s Helio G99.
This article delves into their specifications, benchmarks, and the pros and cons of each to assist you in making an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Specifications Overview
| Feature | Qualcomm Snapdragon 685 | MediaTek Helio G99 |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Architecture | 8-core: 4x Kryo 265 Gold (Cortex-A73 derivative) at up to 2.8 GHz4x Kryo 265 Silver (Cortex-A53 derivative) at up to 1.9 GHz | 8-core: 2x Cortex-A76 at up to 2.2 GHz6x Cortex-A55 at up to 2.0 GHz |
| Manufacturing Process | 6 nm | 6 nm |
| GPU | Adreno 610 | Mali-G57 MC2 |
| Memory Support | LPDDR4x (dual-channel) | LPDDR4x up to 4266 Mbps |
| Modem | X11 LTE with up to 390 Mbps download | LTE Cat-13 with up to 390 Mbps download |
| Additional Features | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.2, QuickCharge 3.0 | Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), Bluetooth 5.0 |
Performance Benchmarks
Benchmark tests provide insights into the real-world performance of these processors:
- 3DMark Sling Shot Extreme (ES 3.1) Unlimited Physics:
- Snapdragon 685: Average score of 2708 points
- Helio G99: Average score of 3571 points
These results indicate that the Helio G99 outperforms the Snapdragon 685 in this specific benchmark, suggesting better handling of graphics-intensive tasks.
Pros and Cons
Qualcomm Snapdragon 685
Pros:
- Higher CPU Clock Speed: With cores clocked up to 2.8 GHz, it offers robust performance for CPU-intensive applications.
- Efficient Manufacturing Process: Built on a 6 nm process, it ensures power efficiency and thermal management.
- Advanced Connectivity: Supports Bluetooth 5.2 and QuickCharge 3.0 for faster data transfer and charging.
Cons:
- Older CPU Architecture: Utilizes Cortex-A73/A53 cores, which are less efficient compared to newer architectures.
- Modest GPU Performance: The Adreno 610 may struggle with high-end gaming applications.
MediaTek Helio G99
Pros:
- Modern CPU Architecture: Incorporates Cortex-A76/A55 cores, offering a balance of performance and efficiency.
- Superior GPU Performance: The Mali-G57 MC2 GPU delivers better graphics performance, beneficial for gaming and multimedia.
- Efficient Manufacturing Process: Also built on a 6 nm process, ensuring energy efficiency.
Cons:
- Slightly Lower CPU Clock Speed: Cores are clocked up to 2.2 GHz, which might impact peak performance in CPU-bound tasks.
- Limited Additional Features: Supports Bluetooth 5.0, which is a step behind the Snapdragon 685’s Bluetooth 5.2.
Conclusion
Both the Snapdragon 685 and Helio G99 are competent mid-range processors.
The Snapdragon 685 offers higher CPU clock speeds and advanced connectivity features, making it suitable for users prioritizing CPU performance and faster data transfer.
Conversely, the Helio G99 provides better GPU performance and utilizes a more modern CPU architecture, appealing to those focused on gaming and multimedia experiences.