Comparison of current mobile processors from Qualcomm. Top best mobile processors for smartphones

A real race has broken out between manufacturers in the smartphone market. In 2018, the reality is that sales of mobile devices are significantly ahead of laptops. In this regard, it would be logical to parse best processors for smartphones.

But first, let's clarify, because saying “processor” in the case of smartphones is not entirely correct. Phones and tablets are currently based on SoC (System-on-a-Chip) system. It is a crystal that includes various modules: a computing unit, a graphics core, communication components (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, etc.), RAM and much more.

You won’t be able to go and buy a new processor for your smartphone, if only because they are not on sale. It is also worth considering that the same SoC can work differently on different smartphones, so we were based on test results from popular Western sources and benchmark tests and prepared the top 10 best processors in terms of performance at the end of 2018.

Top 10 best processors for smartphones

Note! All prices are indicated for smartphone models equipped with the processors listed below.

10 Helio X30

Deca-core processor
Country: China
Average price: 17,240 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.3

First ten-core mobile system became one of the most powerful in 2017. The X30 ranks 10th in terms of performance among the best processors for 2018. This was facilitated by a new technical process measuring 10 nanometers. Compared to the previous generation, the “stone” has become 35% more productive and 50% more energy efficient. There are three clusters on the board. The first one has two cores Cortex-A73 with a frequency of up to 2.5 GHz. The second consists of four Cortex-A53 cores with a frequency of up to 2.2 GHz, and the youngest has four Cortex-A35 cores with a rate of 1.9 GHz. The GPU is PowerVR 7XTP-MP4 with a frequency of 800 MHz. The solution is capable of decoding 10-bit 4K2K video with HDR10 support.

A peculiar novelty was the introduction new technology control of processor cores called CorePilot 4.0. It can save up to 25% more energy than version 3.0. An intelligent task scheduling system, together with the UX Monitoring system and SystemPowerAllocator (SPA) power management, helps the architecture perform well in resource-intensive tasks.

9 Snapdragon 710

Budget processor from Qualcomm
Country: China
Average price: RUB 27,766.
Rating (2018): 4.4

The 710 model is an intermediate link between the top-end 800 series and more budget models. She combines flagship capabilities in the field of photography, videos and provides good artificial intelligence for use at the best price. In addition, autonomy has increased due to improved production technology.

This stone is the heir to the best mid-budget mobile processor Snapdragon 660, released in 2016. The system has eight Kryo 360 cores on the chip, based on architecture from ARM. Four cores with the index A-75 operate at a frequency of 2.2 GHz, another four - A-55 produce a frequency of 1.7 GHz. In fact, there are cores from Snapdragon 845 here, but they have lower frequencies in accordance with their category. The Adreno 616 is responsible for graphics output, and it is assisted by the Spectra 250 image processor, which supports dual 20-megapixel cameras.

8 Kirin 970

Technological breakthrough from Huawei
Country: China
Average price: RUB 27,990.
Rating (2018): 4.4

Single-chip system Kirin 970 was a real revelation from Huawei. A separate neuromorphic processor with its own single-chip system is designed to solve the highest-intensity tasks in neural networks, computer vision and pattern recognition systems. The processor NPU provides up to 25 times faster performance than similar systems and 50 times better energy efficiency. Thus, performance increases and heat dissipation decreases. In addition, Huawei was given access to the internal filling of the NPU unit, which will allow developers third party applications optimize your products for this hardware.

Additionally, it is worth highlighting the presence of a dual signal processor, which allows for motion capture and face detection. These functions include four-level hybrid autofocus and improved shooting of moving objects in low light.

7 SNAPDRAGON 835

People's favorite
Country: China
Average price: RUB 30,790.
Rating (2018): 4.6

This processor is installed on well-known mobile devices Samsung smartphones Galaxy S8 and One Plus 5. But unlike Exynos, this model can be easily found on large quantities other Android smartphones, most of which are more affordable than the Korean ones.

In terms of performance, there are 8 cores (4 cores operating at 2.45 GHz and 4 cores at 1.9 GHz) and a good graphics accelerator - Adreno 540. Performance in synthetic tests is comparable to Exynos, the difference is about 7%, however, when everyday use you'll hardly notice the difference.

Advantages:

• Excellent performance
• Widespread on sale
• Low cost

6 Exynos 8895

Power at an affordable price
Country: Vietnam
Average price: RUB 35,489.
Rating (2018): 4.6

Basis for flagship smartphones, technological know-how from Samsung - this is how this processor can be characterized. Its frequency can reach 3 GHz, and the model itself will be the first in the Samsung lineup to be made using a 10-nanometer process technology. 8 cores will be responsible for performance, working effectively in both single-core and multi-core modes.

Power consumption is extremely low and is only 5 W. It also has the ability to record 4K video at 120fps, which is four times faster than its competitor - the Snapdragon 835 is limited to 4K video at 30fps. One of the disadvantages is the performance limitation due to support for DirectX 11. Despite this, the stone supports Vulkan 1.0. Data transfer is also limited to dual-band 802.11 Wi-Fi. Thus, smartphones with this mobile processor will be an excellent option for video recording enthusiasts.

5 Snapdragon 845

Powerful and most common processor
Country: China
Average price: RUB 21,490.
Rating (2018): 4.7

This processor uses universal computing cores own production, and not the reference one from ARM. New process technology with index 10 nm LPP FinFET , allows for greater performance gains compared to 10 nm LPE FinFET. The best combination of mass production, performance and cost made the processor the most popular among manufacturers.

It inherited the same eight-core architecture from the 835 model. The configuration here consists of 4 energy-efficient cores with a frequency of up to 1.8 GHz for performing light tasks and 4 high-performance powerful cores with a frequency of up to 2.8 GHz, which is higher than the previous generation. In the synthetic Antutu test, it scored 270,461 points, which is higher than 835. The Adreno 630 mobile video accelerator is one of the most powerful on the market and performs excellently when working with graphics, providing high quality image smartphone user.

4 Kirin 980

7 nm process technology
Country: China
Average price: 76,990 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.7

Kirin 980 is ahead of its time thanks to the best technical innovations, including:

• An innovative approach to creating the core processor architecture and the latest mobile chipset with a 7 nm process technology;
• Use of Cortex-A76 core in architecture;
• Two neural network modules in the chip;
• Graphics Mali-G76;
• Built-in Cat.21 modem with data transfer speeds up to 1.4 Gbps;
• Supports LPDDR4X RAM with a frequency of 2133 MHz.

Thanks to the transition to a 7-Pnm process technology, productivity has increased by 20% and energy savings by 40%. At the same time, the density of transistors increased by 1.6 times. There are about 7 billion of them in total. This also had a positive effect on the performance per core, which increased performance by 75%. Thus, the component’s power is enough to outperform even one of the best and most powerful processors today, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 845, in synthetic tests like GeekBench.

3 Exynos 9810

The best processor from Samsung
Country: Vietnam
Average price: RUB 51,490.
Rating (2018): 4.8

New processor from Samsung takes the degree of interaction between the owner and his device to a new level. Advanced technologies allow you to identify objects or people for quick search or classification of images. There is also the ability to scan facial contours to unlock your smartphone. As for the structure, the processor itself belongs to the 3rd and latest generation in the line. It is characterized wide possibilities in data processing and optimized cache memory. Eight cores are divided into “user” for normal tasks and “resource-intensive” for “heavy” processes.

So the processor shows excellent results in all tests, demonstrating excellent computing capabilities and smooth operation while running many processes with minimal power consumption. In addition, data transmission channels ( 1.2 Gbit/s and 200 Mbit/s respectively) provide comfortable data transmission of any format without loss of quality.

2 A11 Bionic

One of the most powerful chipsets in the world
Country: USA
Average price: 51,990 rub.
Rating (2018): 4.9

The fifth generation processor has become 25% more powerful than the A10 version. It is manufactured using a 10 nm process technology, which, together with special technology increase energy efficiency by 70%. The performance improvement can be attributed to the processor cores called Monsun and Mistral. This chipset has two additional kernels and is capable of asymmetric multiprocessing. This means that it can use all six cores simultaneously.

The processor is equipped with a new ASP, which helps with the new portrait mode. Dual-parallel cores can process up to 600 billion operations per second and create effects even on video. Delightful Animoji are made possible thanks to a powerful neural engine. Despite the excellent performance, this processor can only be found in smartphones from Apple, which is a significant disadvantage.

1 A12 Bionic

The best processor from Apple
Country: USA
Average price: 91,900 rub.
Rating (2018): 5.0

Version A12 is considered the best and most powerful processor in the world. When examining it, one immediately notices the balanced use of the lithographic plate area without imbalance to one or another component. Two large performance cores operate at a frequency just below 2.5 GHz. Nearby is a monstrously large 8 MB cache, divided into 4 clusters grouped into two blocks. The most noticeable change was the increase in the level 1 cache from 64+64 to 128+128. 4 energy-efficient tempest cores also have a level 2 cache in two blocks, approximately one megabyte each. The system cache remained in its place and is still located outside the CPU. High-performance cores in the new iteration have become 15% more powerful, and energy efficiency has increased to 50%.

The processor has a graphics accelerator with a neural processing unit. It consists of 6 cores in a 2+4 configuration and performs up to 5 trillion operations per second, which is 9 times faster than the previous generation. This “stone” can be found in latest models IPhoneXS/XR smartphones; in addition, a version of the chip with the 12X index is used in the iPad PRO.

Progress does not stand still. This also applies electronic devices, which are constantly getting smarter, and processors are regularly adding power. In this article we will find out the most productive processors on this moment for smartphones. A rating for smartphone processors will be presented. It is subjective, but the values ​​of various indicators were analyzed. Therefore, the rating is not completely accurate for smartphone processors.

The main indicators of these devices are:

• number of cores and threads;
• chip architecture;
• technical process;
• inner memory;
• clock frequency;
• performance;
• RAM;
• support for various technologies;
• much more.

We will focus mainly on these parameters. So, which smartphone processor is the best? Let's start from tenth place.

MediaTek Helio P23 – 10

The process has 8 ARM Cortex A53 cores. The processor clock frequency is 2.3 GHz. The length of the transistor is 16 nanometers. Thanks to its structure, MediaTek Helio P23 creates optimal performance and energy efficiency.

Excellent support for smartphones that have two SIM cards. There is a dual Long-Term Evolution (LTE) module available - this allows you to operate two slots with a Long-Term Evolution connection simultaneously.

There is a built-in module that processes images for a dual camera and supports single shooting with a resolution of up to 24 megapixels. MediaTek Helio P23 is capable of encoding and decoding videos that are in 4K format. Using the chipset's Internet card, it makes it possible to download files with a maximum speed of up to 300 Mbit/s. This processor is designed to make high-quality video shooting, which will have high resolution and stabilization.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 – 9

Qualcomm is a popular manufacturer that creates microprocessors and occupies a leading position in the market. This is their next development.

This processor received a positive response from both smartphone creators and users. Has 8 A53 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz. The length of the transistor is 14 nanometers. This microprocessor is suitable for fans of “heavy” games, because it has a built-in graphics adapter Adreno 506.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 supports USB 3.0, which ensures high connection speed when working with various accessories. Powerful modem support.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 is a thin microprocessor, so it has low power consumption and low heat generation.

The downside is the presence of a modest screen controller that can only function in FullHD. Update frequency – up to 60Hz. If you decide to use a smartphone for virtual reality, then the Snapdragon 625 is not the best option for this.

Samsung Exynos 7885 – 8

This microprocessor is intended for mid-range gadgets. The Exynos 7885 chip has technology (FinFET) with a standard of 14 nanometers, although before release it was said that there would be 10. There are eight cores:

• Cortex-A73, clocked at up to 2.2 GHz.
• Cortex-A53, clocked at up to 1.6 GHz.

Supports wireless communication Wi-Fi and Bluetooth version 5.0, which is currently the latest. 4K will be slow, Full HD+ will have perfect reproduction. The download speed thanks to the improved LTE board is 600 Mbit/s. The processor is built into devices that have a 22 megapixel camera and a 16 megapixel dual camera.

MediaTek Helio X30 – 7

The platform has a 10 Nm crystal and ten cores. The processor architecture is three-stage, that is, there are 3 clusters:

• The main cluster is two Cortex A73 cores, clocked at 2.5 GHz.
• Two clusters – a total of eight Cortex A53 cores with clock frequencies of 2.2 GHz and 1.9 GHz.

The system can decode video that is in 4K2K format. There are several modules that are responsible for image processing, which allows you to work with dual cameras with a resolution of 16x16 megapixels.

Thanks to the new nuclear communication technology, maximum productivity is achieved and energy consumption is a quarter lower than previous platforms. The first smartphone with this microprocessor went on sale last year.

RAM is 8 GB.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 660 – 6

This is another representative of Qualcomm. The platform has eight cores and supports Quickcharge 4 and fifth-generation Bluetooth standards. The system also includes an Adreno 512 graphics chip. And the Long-Term Evolution chip allows for a maximum speed of 600 Mbit/s.

Compared to the previous platform of this company, this one has significantly greater performance. Energy consumption is halved. Any game will “fly” in 4K format. The processor is so powerful that if you build it into mid-range smartphones, they will be on par with more expensive gadgets. Architecture – Kryo 260.

The advantages include low cost of this microprocessor, support for dual cameras. The maximum display resolution is 1920×1200. Fast charging available. USB 3.1 support. Productivity increased by approximately 30%. Biometric security has increased.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 – 5

Another representative of this technology company. Now it is used in the most advanced devices. Availability of 10nm technology. Qualcomm currently occupies leading positions in all price categories on the market.

Architecture – Kryo 280. Number of cores – 8. Maximum clock frequency – 2.5 GHz. Availability of Adreno 540 graphics module. Supports 4K Ultra HD Premium. The powerful processor used by smartphones for virtual reality processes every texture. Thanks to the developed technology, operating autonomy has increased. Emphasis was placed on the subtlety of the technical processor, as a result, energy consumption and heat generation of the chip were reduced. Five minutes of charging provides five hours of device operation. A quarter of an hour is enough to charge the battery halfway.

Of course, the quality of video recording has increased. 14-bit processors have appeared that process images. Thanks to this, phone manufacturers have the opportunity to build into their devices dual cameras with 16 megapixels and single cameras with 32 megapixels. The performance of hybrid autofocus has been improved, and electronic stabilization has been added when recording video with 4K resolution. Supports HDR.

The quality during night shooting has become significantly better. This is all about the functionality of the cameras. The data transfer speed has increased. The level of data security has increased. This became possible thanks to new software and biometric technologies. A person is now identified using the retina or face, not counting the fingerprint. Moreover, the Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 platform has self-learning capabilities.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 835 is one of the best platforms in the price/quality category.

Huawei Kirin 970 – 4

The Chinese company has created a system that is single-chip. Main distinctive feature of this device is a neuromorphic processor with an open ecosystem. The device has maximum performance on platforms using artificial intelligence. The length of the transistor is 10 nanometers.

Huawei Kirin 970 is the first chipset that has a neural unit in the microprocessor. If compared with ordinary chips, there is simply enormous performance and low energy consumption, which is ten times less.

The chip is also eight-core. The maximum clock frequency is 2.4 GHz. The graphics module is a 12core GPU Mali G72MP12. LTE ADVANCED PRO, according to the manufacturers, makes it possible to reach speeds of more than 1 Gbit/s. For other powerful processors, this speed is the ceiling. The powerful interface supports 4K video.

Other features of this chip include:

• Face detection.
• Motion capture.
• Hybrid autofocus.
• Clear video recording of moving objects.
• Clear video recording in low light conditions.

Huawei Kirin 970 will give your gadget new abilities that it did not have before.

Briefly about the advantages:

• Availability of enormous power.
• Availability.
• Cost in stores.

But still this device could not reach the top three.

Samsung Exynos 9 Octa 8895 – 3

We are considering another representative of Samsung from the same line - Exynos. The transistor length is 10 nanometers. Transistors have a 3D structure. The processor is also eight-core.

There is a GPU that supports processing AI operations, but in this characteristic it is inferior to the previous reviewed chip from Huawei.

Graphics processing is performed by the powerful ARM Mali-G71 module. Thanks to it, video is decoded in 4K format at a speed of 120 frames/s. VR textures can be processed. Network speed thanks to 5CA LTE technology is 1 Gbit/s. The speed of uploading data to the Internet is 150 Mbit/s.

The first smartphone that purchased this microprocessor is Samsung Galaxy S8, which came out in 2018.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 845 – 2

The silver medal goes to another representative of Qualcomm - Snapdragon 845. This development chip is called a “leap into the future.” Why is this so? There are several reasons:

• High level of productivity. Like the previous chipset model from this company, this one has a 10 nanometer processor. Clock frequencies are 2.8 GHz and 1.8 GHz. This processor can handle absolutely any game. The graphics module is responsible for graphics performance. This will speed up graphics performance by 30%.
• It is worth paying special attention to the data transfer speed. It has increased by 20% and is 1 Gbit/s. To achieve this speed, a combination of bandwidths is created. The previous chip from this company creates a combination of two bands. And the Snapdragon 845 includes eight such bands.
• Consider the camera's photo quality. Image frequency – 60 frames/s. Technologies that process images DSP Hexagon, Spectra ISP. Color reproduction of images thanks to Spectra 280 ISP technology has reached a new level.
• The chip has improved smartphone protection. The security system is called Secure Processing Unit. It has its own batteries, which allows you to increase the speed of saving and processing the user’s biometric data.

This chip is ideal for an Android phone. It occupies a leading position in the price/quality category.

With every new year, Qualcomm is trying to make devices more secure. And make the protection more convenient.

Apple A11 Bionic – 1

Gold in our rating goes to the chipset from the famous company Apple. This mobile processor is integrated into the iPhone X. There is also 10-nanometer technology. Unlike previous model chipset performance increased by 25%. Despite this, energy efficiency has also increased by as much as 50%.

The chip includes GPU technology, which runs on three cores. This own development American company. Now the graphics are completely controlled by the manufacturers. Until this point, the purchase of graphics devices was carried out from other manufacturers. Intelligent processing acquired latest features. This was made possible thanks to a dual-core neural accelerator. New smart processing features include AR and Face ID.

The features that the new smartphone has are all thanks to the A11 Bionic. In general, the chipset is six-core with a clock frequency of 2.4 GHz. There are two energy efficiency cores. The power allows you to launch and play full-fledged console games, and video material can be processed in real time.

All this allows the Apple A11 Bionic to take first place in our ranking.

So, the best processors suitable for smartphones have been presented. Data is current for 2018.

Which processor is better for an Android smartphone?

Some other information! This question cannot be answered unambiguously. It is worth noting that you need to choose a smartphone with a microprocessor that has best results. Today, of course, it is difficult to chase constant new products. Buy annually new device not available to everyone. But it is recommended to purchase flagships even from previous years, because they have performance (speed) that can last for many years to come.

Therefore, if you need an answer to this question, then purchase. At the moment, it is not possible to purchase a better microprocessor and simply replace the old one.

Conclusion

Summarize. Among the chipsets reviewed, it is clear that the leadership among smartphones with operating Android system held by Qualcomm. The main competitors are chipsets from Samsung companies and Huawei. Their product lines are named Exynos and Kirin. MediaTek is gaining more and more popularity. But Apple, Samsung and Huawei have the largest market share. You can find tables with their characteristics on the Internet.

New applications are emerging every day that require enormous performance. The video format is getting better and better, so the processor must support fantastic detail. Moreover, old applications are updated every time, even social media and messengers began to constantly increase in volume. Therefore, they need to work correctly.

Mobile processors age over time and lag behind progress. Purchasing a budget smartphone with a weak chip is not the best solution, because it ceases to be relevant after a short period of time. Buy smartphones that are flagships. In fact, you will realize that this was a better purchase.

Qualcomm is a well-known developer of chipsets for mobile devices. Its arsenal includes processors for smartphones of all price categories. In the upper price niche, the company is the leading supplier of SoCs for phones; in the middle, it also has an impressive market share, and only in the budget category are Taiwanese competitors represented by MediaTek.

Qualcomm chipsets are usually equipped with a special Hexagon DSP (digital signal processor). It is responsible for processing voice, sound, and sensor readings in order to reduce the load on the main cores and optimize power consumption.

About what current processors is in the Qualcomm lineup as of the beginning of 2017, our article will tell you. The material does not consider discontinued and rare products, like the Snapdragon S4, but is dedicated only to those found in smartphones that are being sold or are about to be sold.

Chipsets for absolutely inexpensive smartphones(up to $100) is clearly not the company’s strong point. However, Qualcomm has plenty of budget chips in its arsenal. Traditionally, they come out under model numbers 200 and 400 series.

Snapdragon 200

Old budget processor, exists in 4 versions. All of them have 4 cores made using the 28 nm process (the earlier ones were made using the 45 nm process), but differ in the type of these cores, as well as graphics. The 2 models with 1.4 GHz have Cortex A5 microarchitecture (32-bit) and Adreno 203 graphics, clocked at 300 MHz and with a performance of 9 GFLOPS (billions of floating point calculations per second). Models with a frequency of 1.2 GHz are equipped with Cortex A7 cores (also 32 bits) and Adreno 302 graphics (400 MHz, 12 GFLOPS).

All chipsets in the series are equipped with a single-channel LPDDR2 controller (300 MHz). Displays with resolutions up to 1280x720 pixels are supported. This chipset does not have an ISP, so the camera resolution depends on what the external image processor supports (Qualcomm usually uses an ISP made by Texas Instruments). The modem works with Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz networks, GSM, CDMA and HSPA operators, depending on the version (no LTE).

The maximum camera resolution that the chipset can support is 8 megapixels.

Snapdragon 210

This is a development of the previous model; the processor is produced according to 28 nm standards. It has 4 Cortex A7 1.1 GHz cores, Adreno 304 graphics. Its frequency is 400 MHz, performance is 21 GFLOPS.

The memory controller supports LPDDR3 and LPDDR2 chips up to 533 MHz. The display controller is designed for resolutions up to 1280x720; there is no image processor in the chip. The modem is designed for Wi-Fi networks 2.4 GHz, GSM, HSPA, CDMA and LTE Cat. 4.

The maximum camera resolution supported by the chipset is 8 megapixels. There is even support for second generation fast charging technology. This old technology, which on paper allows you to charge smartphones in less than three hours, but in practice the chipset in question is unlikely to be found in a smartphone with second-generation fast charging from Qualcomm.

Snapdragon 410

A processor for smartphones of a higher class than the 200th model. Based on 64-bit architecture, but produced according to the same 28 nm standards. Has 4 Cortex A53 cores up to 1.4 GHz. Graphics processing is handled by the Adreno 306 GPU, with a frequency of 400 MHz and a performance of 21 GFLOPS.

The chipset is equipped with a single-channel LPDDR2/3 (533 MHz) RAM controller. The display resolution can reach FullHD 1920×1080 pixels. There is no built-in ISP; cameras up to 13 MP are usually supported. The radio module supports Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, cellular networks up to LTE Cat. 4.

The maximum supported camera resolution is 13.5 MP. Fast charging technology may be of the second generation.

Snapdragon 425/427

These Qualcomm processors belong to the budget category and are a continuation of the 415 model. They are also produced according to 28 nm standards and have 4 Cortex A53 cores. They operate at a frequency of 1.4 GHz, Adreno 308 graphics are installed on board. The GPU frequency is unknown for certain (the only smartphone with this SoC, Xiaomi Redmi 4A, will not be widely sold), the approximate performance is about 30 GFLOPS.

Both processors are designed for LPDDR3 memory (667 GHz). Display resolution – HD 720. The differences between Qualcomm Snapdragon 425 and 427 are in the networks: both support Wi-Fi of two standards and all 2nd and 3rd generation networks. But the 425 has LTE Cat 4, and the 427 has LTE Cat 7.

The 425th model supports its own second-generation fast charging technology, the 427th model supports 3rd generation fast charging. The camera can be a maximum of 16 megapixels for both.

Snapdragon 430/435

These Qualcomm processors are the most advanced in budget segment. Both are manufactured using a 28 nm process technology and have 8 Cortex A53 1.4 GHz cores. The graphics are processed by the accelerator. latest generation Adreno 505. The clock frequency of the video processor is 450 MHz, and the theoretical performance is up to 49 GFLOPS.

The memory controller is designed for LPDDR3 800 chips. The display resolution can be either HD or FullHD. Both chipsets support almost all current networks, but the 430 model has an LTE Cat 4 modem, and the 435 has a Cat 7 modem.

Qualcomm third generation fast charging is supported. The chipsets can process camera images at a resolution of 21 megapixels.

Mid-range Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets

Among mid-range chips, Qualcomm has good SoCs for both mid-budget and almost flagship devices. They are usually in the 600 series, but there is one exception.

Snapdragon 615/616/617

Inexpensive mid-level processors aimed at mass-segment smartphones. They are produced according to the 28 nm process technology and have 8 Cortex A53 cores in a 4+4 configuration. They differ in frequencies and modems. In the 615 model, 4 fast cores operate at 1.5, in the 616 - 1.7, in the 617 - 1.5 GHz. Another cluster of 4 cores is overclocked to 1.2 GHz everywhere. Graphics processing is handled by Adreno 405, 550 MHz, with a performance of 60 GFLOPS.

The RAM controller is single-channel LPDDR3, 800 (in models 615 and 616) or 933 MHz (617). The chips can display images on displays up to QHD 2560x1600 (the 617th is only Full HD 1920x1080). Cellular modules of models 615 and 616 support networks up to LTE Cat 4, in 617 – LTE Cat 7. All processors for smartphones in this series work with Wi-Fi of both bands. The first two models support fast charging technology Quick Charge 2.0, and 617 already Quick Charge 3.0. Photos on the camera can be processed at a maximum resolution of 21 megapixels.

Snapdragon 415

Cheaper version of the 615 model. The first eight-core Qualcomm processor for smartphones, designed to interest the Chinese in multi-core technology and give an answer to MediaTek chips (Qualcomm representatives themselves once mentioned this). Despite belonging to the 400 series, it is a representative of the middle level. Produced using a 28 nm process technology, it has 8 Cortex A53 1.4 GHz cores. Graphics coprocessor – Qualcomm Adreno 405, 465 MHz, 50 GFLOPS.

The RAM controller can work with LPDDR3 667 chips. The chipset supports screens with a resolution of up to 1920x1080 pixels. The Wi-Fi module operates with frequencies of 2.4 and 5 GHz, and there is also support for all networks, up to LTE Cat 4.

Fast charging technology version 2 is supported. Camera images can be processed at 13 megapixel resolution.

Snapdragon 650 (originally introduced as 618)

A powerful mid-range Qualcomm processor, originally numbered 618. It was introduced in 2015. Then its production was suspended due to problems with overheating and it was re-launched in 2016 under number 650. It is produced using the 28 nm process technology. It has 6 cores, of which 2 are powerful Cortex A72 with a frequency of 1.8, another 4 are economical Cortex A53 1.4 GHz. Graphics subsystem– Adreno 510, 600 MHz, speed of about 180 GFLOPS.

The chipset is equipped with a dual-channel LPDDR3 memory controller with a frequency of up to 933 MHz. Screen resolution - up to QHD 2560×1600 pixels. It is equipped with a modem that supports all networks up to LTE Cat 7, and Wi-Fi can work in 2.4 and 5 GHz networks.

The chipset supports Quick Charge™ 3.0 fast charging technology. The camera module can be a maximum of 21 megapixels.

Snapdragon 652/653

Powerful eight-core processors manufactured using the 28 nm process technology. In fact, these are more advanced versions of the 650 model. 4 Cortex A72 cores have frequencies of 1.8 (652) or 1.95 GHz (653), 4 Cortex A53 – 1.4 (652) or 1.44 (653) GHz. Graphics processing is handled by Adreno 510, 600 MHz, 180 GFLOPS.

Both chips are equipped with a memory controller that works with two LPDDR3 933 channels. Screens up to 2560x1600 pixels are supported. Both models are equipped with Wi-Fi ac (5 GHz) and LTE Cat 7, but the 653 model has upload speeds of up to 150 Mbps, and the 652 – 100 Mbps. The interface connector of smartphones with these chips must support only USN 2.0.

Both models support third-generation fast charging, 21-megapixel camera shots, and 4K video recording at 30 frames per second.

Snapdragon 625/626

Qualcomm smartphone processors that were widely used in 2016. The chipsets have proven themselves well. They are produced using a relatively thin 14 nm process technology, which results in economical power consumption and no heating. Equipped with 8 Cortex A53 cores. The clock frequency in the model 625 is 2, 626 is 2.2 GHz. 3D processing is handled by the Adreno 506, 650 MHz graphics accelerator, with a performance of about 130 GFLOPS.

A single-channel LPDDR3 933 controller is responsible for communication with the RAM. The maximum screen resolution is 1920x1080 pixels. The radio module is designed for networks up to LTE up to Cat 7, as well as Wi-Fi in two bands. A feature of Qualcomm Snapdragon 626 is also USB support 3.0.

Fast charging technology supported Qualcomm Quick Charge 3.0. The video can be shot in 4K resolution at 30 frames per second. Image resolution is 24 megapixels.

Snapdragon 660

An upcoming processor, based on which no smartphone has yet been announced. It is built on a thinner 14 nm process technology and is equipped with 8 cores of its own Kryo microarchitecture (an ARM-based development by Qualcomm). 4 powerful cores have a frequency of 2.2, 4 economical ones - 1.9 GHz. Adreno 512 is provided for graphics (according to preliminary data - about 200 GFLOPS).

The chipset provides for the installation of LPDDR4 1866 memory in smartphones, in 2 channels. According to available information, support for LTE Cat 9 is provided. The resolution of the displays is unknown, since the first smartphones on the chip will appear no earlier than spring 2017.

Flagship Qualcomm Snapdragon processors

Qualcomm produces SoCs for top smartphones under model numbers of the 800 series. In them, developers introduce all the advanced achievements in the field of SoCs.

Snapdragon 820

The flagship chipset of 2016 is one of the best solutions on the market so far. Manufactured using a 14 nm process technology and equipped with 4 Kryo cores. 2 of them operate at a frequency of 2.15, another 2 – 1.6 GHz. There is a version with 1.8 and 1.36 GHz, characterized by reduced power consumption. Graphics accelerator – Adreno 530, 625 MHz, 499 GFLOPS.

The memory controller is four-channel LPDDR4 1866. The maximum screen resolution is 4K 3840x2160. Cellular networks – up to LTE Cat 12 (which is just emerging in the world) and Wi-Fi ac and ad (WiGig).

Supports Quick Charge 3.0 fast charging technology and wireless technology WiPower charging. Cameras are supported in 28 megapixel resolution.

Snapdragon 821

An optimized and slightly overclocked version of the previous smartphone processor. Frequencies remained the same or increased to 2.35/1.6 GHz. The graphics accelerator is overclocked to 650 MHz (519 GFLOPS).

Snapdragon 835

The processor was introduced in January 2016 at CES 2017. The first smartphones based on the 835 should appear around MWC 2017 (late February). Manufacturing process – 10 nm. Powered by eight Kryo 280 cores. Adreno 540 video chip. Maximum frequency powerful 4 cores - 2.45 GHz. Another 4 cores for less demanding tasks operate at a frequency of 1.9 GHz.

Memory controller – four-channel LPDDR4. Supports QHD and 4K displays. The wireless module is designed for Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac/ad networks, and supports LTE up to Cat 16 (up to 980 Mbit/s, not yet implemented on a mass basis by any global operator). The Snapdragon 835 chipset gets an LTE X16 modem, 4x4 MIMO, three layers of security, and machine learning.

The 4th generation Quick Charge fast charging technology will be supported, which is 20% faster than the third generation.

The 835 chipset will have the ability to electronically stabilize video in 4K resolution at 60 frames per second. Supports a 32 MP camera or two 16 MP cameras. .

These two models should be for a long time the most powerful from Qualcomm. The press release describes them as the most powerful and energy efficient mobile chipsets in history.

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The Taiwanese company MediaTek (MTK) has gained a reputation as a manufacturer of good processors for inexpensive smartphones. Most Chinese in the budget price category equip them with this chipset. However the lineup The company is much broader: it has low-cost, mid-range and top-end solutions. The latter may not be a match for Apple chipsets, but they are also inexpensive. About what processors are available in the MediaTek model range, as of the beginning of 2017, see more below.

The same SoC model can be produced in several versions. As a rule, modifications with reduced frequencies (for better energy saving) receive the prefix M or P, and overclocked ones - T (Turbo).

Inexpensive MediaTek chipsets are represented by two lines, descending from different microarchitectures.

MT6580

MT6580 is the most cheap processor MediaTek, designed for smartphones under $100. It is produced using the 28 nm process technology. It consists of four 32-bit Cortex A7 cores at 1 or 1.3 GHz. The Mali 400 MP accelerator is responsible for graphics processing, with a frequency of 400 or 500 MHz and a theoretical performance of 7.2 or 9 GFLOPS (billions of computational operations per second).

Memory controller – LPDDR2/LPDDR3, up to 2 GB (a 32-bit system will no longer allow addressing). The chipset supports a camera up to 8 MP, a 1280x720 pixel screen, Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz and GSM and HSPA cellular networks.

MT6735(M/P)

MT6735 is a representative of the 64-bit MediaTek line. It is also produced according to 28 nm standards, but on a newer architecture. The chip contains 4 ARM Cortex A53 cores with a frequency of 1 (MT6735P/M) or 1.3 GHz. Graphics accelerator – Mali T720 MP2, frequency 400 (MT6735P), 500 (MT6735M) or 600 (MT6735) MHz, performance 13.6, 17 or 20.4 GFLOPS, respectively.

The chip supports LPDDR3 memory, frequency up to 640 MHz, capacity up to 3 GB. The ISP supports cameras up to 13 MP, screens 1280x720 pixels, Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz and current networks (except CDMA) up to LTE Cat 4.

MT6737(M/T)

MT6737 is an evolution of the previous chip, which MediaTek “demoted” and made it a rival to its own 6580. It was released in mid-2016. The chip is manufactured according to the same 28 nm standards and has the same 4 Cortex A53 cores. Clock frequency – 1.1 (MT6737M) or 1.3 GHz. GPU – Mali T720 MP2, overclocked to 550 or 600 (MT6737T) MHz. Its theoretical operating speed is up to 18.7 or 20.4 GFLOPS.

The memory controller can operate with one LPDDR2/LPDDR3 channel, frequency up to 640 or 733 MHz. The maximum resolution of the camera is 8 MP, video is 1080p, display is 1280x720 pixels. For communications, Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz and GSM/3g/LTE Cat 4 networks are supported.

MT6738(T)

MT6738 is a new budget MediaTek processor, which should replace the 6735 model (6737 – rather a replacement MT6580). Although it was announced in the fall of 2016, it is still produced using the 28 nm process technology. The chip contains 4 Cortex A53 cores with a frequency of 1.5 GHz. 3D processing is handled by the graphic Mali processor T860 MP2, with a frequency of 350 or 520 (6738T) MHz. Its performance is up to 23.8 or 35 GFLOPS, respectively.

MediaTek MT6738 supports up to 4 GB of LPDDR3 667 RAM. Cameras up to 13 MP, FullHD video recording and 1280x720 pixel screens are supported. Networks include Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, GSM, 3G and LTE Cat 6.

MediaTek mid-range processors

Among the mid-level chipsets, there are no seriously obsolete models. Only 64-bit MediaTek processors with 8 cores remain relevant (that is, supplied to partners for installation in smartphones).

MT6753(T)

Despite the larger model number, the MT6753 was released almost a year before the MT6750. It is created using a 28 nm process technology and is equipped with 8 Cortex A53 cores. In the 6753T model they accelerate to 1.5, in regular version– up to 1.3 GHz. Graphics accelerator – Mali T720 MP3, 700 MHz, 35.7 GFLOPS.

The memory controller works with LPDDR3 chips up to 800 MHz, the RAM capacity can reach 3 GB. ISP supports cameras up to 16 MP with FullHD video recording, the screen can have a resolution of 1920x1080 pixels. The network module works with Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, supports GSM, HSPA and CDMA 3G, LTE Cat 4.

MT6750(T)

MT6750 is a mid-level processor introduced in the spring of 2016. It is produced using a 28 nm process technology and consists of 8 Cortex A53 cores. They are grouped into 2 blocks of 4 cores, the clock frequency of the first reaches 1.5, the second - 1 GHz. Graphics processing is handled by the Mali T860 MP2 GPU, 520 or 560 MHz. Its performance is 35.3 or 44.2 GFLOPS.

The memory controller in the processor supports up to 4 GB LPDDR3, frequency up to 833 or 933 MHz. MediaTek MT6750 is designed to install cameras up to 16 MP, supports video recording up to 1080p and works with HD and FullHD screens (T model). A modem supporting Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, GSM, 3G (including CDMA) and LTE Cat 6 is responsible for communication.

MT6755(M) or Helio P10

MT6755 is a MediaTek processor that bears its own name. It was introduced at the end of 2015 and is produced using the 28 nm process technology. The processor includes 8 Cortex A53 cores with frequencies up to 1.2 GHz (economical cluster) and 2 GHz (productive cluster). Graphics chip – Mali T860 MP2 operating at 550 or 700 MHz with a performance of 37.4 or 47.6 GFLOPS.

The chip is equipped with a single-channel LPDDR3 933 memory controller (up to 4 GB capacity). It supports a camera up to 21 MP, FullHD video recording and a screen of the same resolution. Networking capabilities Wi-Fi 2.4 GHz, Wi-Fi 5 GHz (AC standard is not supported), GSM, 3G CDMA and HSPA, LTE Cat 6 are available.

MT6755 Pro or Helio P15

MT6755 Pro is an overclocked modification of the MediaTek Helio P10. It differs from it in the frequency of the processor (up to 2.2 GHz) and graphics (800 MHz, 54 GFLOPS). Otherwise the processor is completely identical.

MT6757/Pro or Helio P20/P25

MT6755 Helio P20/25 is a mid-range processor from MediaTek, belonging to a more modern generation. It is produced according to the 16 nm process technology and has 8 Cortex A53 cores. Half of them operate at a frequency of 2.3 or 2.5 GHz (P20 and P25, respectively), the second half - 1.6 GHz. Graphics processing is handled by the Mali T880 MP2 accelerator, with a frequency of 900 or 1000 MHz and a performance of 61 or 68 GFLOPS, respectively.

The memory controller is dual-channel, supporting up to 6 GB LPDDR4 at 1600 MHz, plus there is one LPDDR3 933 MHz channel up to 3 GB. Cameras up to 24 MP, with 4K video recording, and FullHD screens are supported. Wi-Fi supports 2.4 and 5 GHz networks; cellular operators GSM, HSPA, CDMA, LTE Cat 6 are also supported.

MediaTek flagship processors

In the flagship class, MediaTek has one actively produced processor, the MT6797, which has received revisions different names, but essentially it’s the same chipset. The predecessor, Helio X10, was created using technologies patented by Ericsson, so to avoid legal disputes, its production was quickly discontinued.

All MT6797 are manufactured according to 20 nm process standards, have 10 cores, of which 2 high-performance ones are built on the Cortex A72 architecture, and another 8 are based on Cortex A53. They also have a separate Cortex M4 processor with separate power and low frequency, which is responsible for listening to MP3. Graphics processing is handled by the Mali T880 M4 GPU. Memory controller – dual-channel, LPDDR3 933, up to 4 GB. Network – Wi-Fi 2.4 and 5 GHz, GSM, CDMA, HSPA, LTE Cat 6. Innovation – PumpExpress 3.0 fast charging technology.

Detailed characteristics of each chipset version are below.

MT6797 Helio X20

Helio X20 is the basic version introduced at the end of 2015. Frequencies – 2.1 GHz for 2 powerful Cortex A72 cores, 1.85 GHz – for 4 universal Cortex A53 cores, 1.4 GHz – 4 more economical Cortex A53. Graphics frequency – 780 MHz, performance – 106 GFLOPS. Supports cameras up to 25 MP (dual ISP, support for 2 cameras), with 4K recording, and screens up to 2560x1600 pixels.

MT6797D Helio X23

The chip is being prepared for early 2017, and is a slight modification of the X20 model. Its Cortex A72 cores are overclocked to 2.3 GHz, the rest of the frequencies are the same as the X20. Added support for cameras up to 32 MP (or 2 x 13 MP).

MT6797T Helio X25

The chipset was released in the spring of 2016, its cores were overclocked to 2.5/2/1.55 ​​GHz, graphics – 850 MHz or 115.6 GFLOPS.

MT6797X Helio X27

The processor is being prepared for the 1st quarter of 2017, and is also a slightly overclocked and optimized version of its predecessor. Core frequencies – 2.6/2/1.6 GHz, graphics – 875 MHz or 120 GFLOPS. Added support for cameras up to 32 MP or 2 x 13 MP.

MT6799(T) Helio X30 (X35)

An evolutionary step of MediaTek processors towards the transition to the 10 nm process technology. Prepared for the 1st quarter of 2017, mass sales of smartphones on it should not be expected until spring. It has 10 cores, of which 2 are the fastest - Cortex A73, 4 more universal - Cortex A53, and 4 energy efficient - Cortex A35. Clock frequencies MediaTek Helio X30 – 2.8/2.2/2 GHz, Helio X35 – 3/2.22 GHz. GPU – PowerVR 7400 XT, 820 MHz, 210 GFLOPS.

The MediaTek Helio X30/35 memory controller supports up to 8 GB of LPDDR4 1866 MHz memory in dual-channel mode. There is also support for universal solid-state (flash) memory UFS 2.1. Camera resolution is up to 28 MP, uses dual ISP Imagiq, supports 4K recording. The maximum display resolution is 2560x1600 pixels. Built-in support Wi-Fi networks 2.5 GHz, as well as all current cellular networks up to LTE Cat 10.

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When choosing a new smartphone, we usually pay attention to several key indicators: screen, processor, camera and appearance. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule, but it is these four that interest any more or less advanced consumer. Today we want to focus on processors modern smartphones, their, without exaggeration, hearts. Indeed, the mobile processor will provide the smartphone with high-quality sound, good pictures, and provide it with fast charging and an LTE module. But first of all, the user is interested in the performance of the smartphone, so the comparison mobile processors- a useful activity before buying a new device. We will discuss this, and we will do it in the simplest possible language, without going into technical details, in order to really clarify the situation and not confuse it even more.

First of all, let's be clear. By the wording “mobile processor” we mean not just a “pebble”, but a full-fledged system-on-a-chip (aka chipset, aka SoC, aka CPU), which consists of many interconnected components, each of which affects the smartphone processor performance. We also must not forget about RAM and optimization, which are inextricably linked with chipsets, which we will also discuss below.

Cores. More is not better

You can often hear the opinion that your iPhone has only two cores, but my Meizu has ten, which means Meizu is cooler! No, not cooler. For many reasons. But now let's focus on the kernels. The key indicator here is the clock speed (denoted by GHz), and the higher it is, the faster your smartphone will work. But you will have to pay for the speed with inevitable heating and, as a result, rapid battery drain. To avoid excessive discharge, manufacturers began to use clusters in which the cores operate at different clock speeds and, as a result, charge consumption. This technology is called big.LITTLE and is the most common option today. The most important thing that the average consumer should know is that all these cores never work at the same time: during games, benchmarks and other heavy tasks, productive and energy-intensive cores are turned on, and simple tasks are handled by less powerful but energy-efficient ones.

Graphics accelerator

This parameter is of interest, first of all, to gamers, because it is the graphics accelerator that is responsible for 3D graphics, texture rendering in games and high frame rates. The most famous names here are Adreno, Mali and PowerVR. At one time, Tegra and its K1 processor, focused exclusively on games, “shot out”. Gamers squealed with delight, but the processor never received new versions.

As for the choice, the rule is simple: if you want advanced graphics, choose an advanced chipset, because the GPU is always tightly tied to the CPU.

Heating and throttling. Less is better

Heating is generally a sore subject for a mobile processor. Not only can it melt the glue and leave yellow marks on the smartphone screen (and it happens, yeah), it also negatively affects the processor itself. To avoid overheating and subsequent damage, the processor forcibly lowers clock frequency- this is the same throttling. In simple words The hotter your smartphone is, the slower it will work. All chipsets are subject to throttling to one degree or another, but the lower this indicator, the better. Ideally, a smartphone should not get very hot at all. The anti-record in this regard was set by the Snapdragon 810, and smartphones that are based on it today are better to be bypassed altogether.

Technical process. Less is better

IN last years information about the technical process by which the chipset is made appears more and more often in promotional materials for smartphones. For a techie, it's a matter of talent and grace. It is important for us to know that the smaller the number in front of the treasured nanometers (denoted nm), the better. For modern flagship solutions, the figure of 10 nm is relevant. It is unlikely that this indicator will be decisive when choosing a smartphone, but since manufacturers like to boast about them, we will also mention them.

Bit depth. 64 bits in priority

Again, without getting into the technical jungle, we note that the smartphone is old, but flagship processor will be inferior in performance to the new 64-bit mid-ranger. In addition, all new applications are developed with 64-bit processors in mind, so the choice in favor of the latter is obvious.

Benchmarks and parrots

Today, the most common synthetic tests are Antutu and Geekbench. However, we do not recommend focusing on dry numbers: firstly, the industry knows of cases when specially trained smartphones “deceived” synthetics, demonstrating indicators that they are not capable of in real life, and secondly, the performance of smartphone processors today is so high that that it is almost impossible to notice the difference between “fast” and “very fast” with the naked eye. It is much more interesting to test the performance of a smartphone with real tasks: check the smoothness of the interface, run several games, the camera, etc.

RAM and optimization

In fact, these parameters do not directly relate to the SoC, but are inextricably linked with it: a productive processor needs a lot of RAM, otherwise it simply will not be able to reach its potential. As of today, the optimal amount of RAM is 3-4 GB, and we categorically do not recommend agreeing to less than 2 GB. What about 6 gigs? - you ask. We answer. Now these are just useless show-offs, but in the future, most likely, everything will change.

As for optimization, people love to talk about it Apple users. Indeed, a relatively small model range and the same type of filling allow the company to achieve coordinated operation of hardware and software. For an android, these are unattainable heights due to the motley filling of smartphones, multiplied by the shells that manufacturers love to put on top of the “naked” android. Therefore, in order for everything to work smoothly, you have to take quantity, not quality. Since the user cannot influence this parameter in any way, we recommend simply giving preference to a clean OS without add-ons.

Finally, some specifics

Now that we have decided on key characteristics, let's just name the best processors for smartphones today. The undisputed market leader is Qualcomm and their Snapdragon. The manufacturer has solutions for entry-level, for example Snapdragon 430, mid-range price segment(a popular representative is Snapdragon 625) and flagship models, the newest of which as of spring 2017 is the Snapdragon 835 - this is the best that is on the Android and Windows smartphone market today.

Breathing down the leader's neck Exynos, manufactured by Samsung. These processors are not very common on the market, because they are installed only on smartphones and tablets of the Korean giant itself and are sometimes found in Meizu, but are not inferior in quality to Snap. The current leader of the line is Exynos 8895.

As for MediaTek, everything here is purely Chinese: there are a lot of models, they have heaps of cores, but there are problems with real performance. No, we don’t want to say that MTK are bad processors, but they are inferior to the solutions of the same Snap. Of the models present on the market, the flagship is Helio X25.

Processors Intel well known to desktop users and often found on Windows tablets. Android smartphones are also available on Intel, but potential buyers need to be careful: due to the use of a different architecture, these chipsets may not support some applications.

Processors Kirin- Huawei’s own development, and everything is simple: if you want a smartphone of this particular brand, accept it. However, Kirin will not let you down: the flagship model number 960 works smoothly and is in no way inferior to its colleagues in the shop, and even consumes battery power efficiently.

U Apple it's even simpler: all their processors are designated in the format An, where n is a number, and the larger it is, the better. For today it is Apple model A9X.

Looks like a dark horse against this background Xiaomi: their Surge S1 is not the most productive chipset and is prone to overheating; it is experimental in nature. We do not recommend anyone to buy the Xiaomi Mi 5C based on it. And we certainly do not recommend agreeing to risky Rockchip, Spreadtrum, AllWinner and even more artisanal China. Yes, it will be cheaper, but your joy about this will quickly give way to indignation at the disgusting quality of the device.

Processor comparison

We have compiled all the basic characteristics that are important for the user into a table that will help you choose the right option. This includes the most common chips famous manufacturers over the past 2-3 years, which have not yet lost their relevance.

Another convenient way comparison of mobile processors - graphs of their performance. In the figure below you see the top devices from the Antutu benchmark as of the end of 2016 and beginning of 2017.

So, when choosing a mobile processor, first of all, we pay attention to the manufacturer (we listed the most reliable ones above), the clock frequency of the productive cores, and the presence of heating. Everything else is technical subtleties that there is no point in delving into for the average user (and if you are not an average user, you have not learned anything new from this text). It is enough to be guided simple rule: the flagship models here collect all the best, there are no problems with them (with rare exceptions), they are needed, first of all, by gamers and enthusiasts. For example, Google Daydream is only compatible with advanced processors. Modern “average” devices also cope with applications and games, including three-dimensional ones, without any problems. As for the entry-level, you will have to make compromises, but it is much better if it is a low-power but reliable chipset from a renowned manufacturer than a homemade noname from which you can expect anything.