Quick Answer
The MediaTek Helio G50 and Helio G35 are both entry-level mobile processors designed for budget smartphones. The Helio G50 generally offers a slight performance advantage with a more modern CPU architecture and better connectivity options, including 4G LTE Cat-7 support. The Helio G35, while capable, is positioned as a more basic option within the G-series lineup.
MediaTek Helio G50 vs MediaTek Helio G35: Full Comparison
When evaluating budget-friendly smartphones, the chipset is a core component that determines overall capability. MediaTek’s Helio G-series targets this segment with a focus on providing capable gaming and multimedia experiences. This comparison breaks down the differences between the Helio G50 and Helio G35, two processors commonly found in entry-level devices. Understanding their specifications in areas like CPU, GPU, camera support, and connectivity can help clarify what each chipset brings to a device’s performance profile.
CPU and Performance
The central processing unit (CPU) configuration is a primary differentiator between these two chipsets.
- Helio G50: Features an octa-core CPU with a 2+6 cluster design. It uses two ARM Cortex-A75 cores clocked at up to 2.0 GHz for performance tasks and six ARM Cortex-A55 cores at up to 1.8 GHz for efficiency. This hybrid architecture is typically more capable in handling demanding applications.
- Helio G35: Also an octa-core CPU, but it utilizes eight ARM Cortex-A53 cores. These are all efficiency cores, with four clocked at up to 2.3 GHz and the other four at up to 1.8 GHz. While this design can be power-efficient, it generally offers lower peak performance compared to the G50’s A75 cores.
In practical terms, the Helio G50 is often better suited for multitasking and more intensive apps due to its performance-oriented cores.
GPU and Gaming
Both chipsets are part of MediaTek’s “G” series, which emphasizes gaming features, but their graphical capabilities differ.
- Helio G50: Equipped with an IMG PowerVR GE8320 GPU. It supports a maximum display resolution of FHD+ (2520 x 1080) at a 60Hz refresh rate.
- Helio G35: Uses an IMG PowerVR GE8320 GPU as well, but it is clocked differently and supports a maximum display resolution of HD+ (1600 x 720) at 60Hz.
The key difference lies in the supported display resolution. The G50 can drive sharper FHD+ screens, while the G35 is typically paired with HD+ displays. For gaming, both can handle casual titles adequately, but graphically demanding games will generally run more smoothly on the G50, especially at higher resolutions.
Camera, Connectivity, and Manufacturing
These areas highlight further distinctions in their feature sets and underlying technology.
Camera Support
- Helio G50: Supports a single camera up to 48MP or a dual-camera setup (16MP + 16MP). It can also handle 1080p video recording at 30fps.
- Helio G35: Supports a single camera up to 25MP or a dual-camera setup (13MP + 13MP). Video recording is also capped at 1080p at 30fps.
Connectivity
- Helio G50: Integrates a 4G LTE Cat-7 modem for downloads and Cat-13 for uploads, offering faster potential cellular speeds. It also supports dual 4G VoLTE.
- Helio G35: Features a 4G LTE Cat-4 modem for both downloads and uploads, which is a more basic standard. It also supports dual 4G VoLTE.
Manufacturing Process
- Helio G50: Built on a 12nm fabrication process.
- Helio G35: Built on a 12nm fabrication process as well.
This shared process means their power efficiency in similar tasks is generally comparable, with the G50’s performance gains coming from its architectural advantages.
Specification Comparison Table
| Feature | MediaTek Helio G50 | MediaTek Helio G35 |
|---|---|---|
| CPU Architecture | Octa-core (2x Cortex-A75 @ 2.0 GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 @ 1.8 GHz) | Octa-core (4x Cortex-A53 @ 2.3 GHz + 4x Cortex-A53 @ 1.8 GHz) |
| GPU | IMG PowerVR GE8320 | IMG PowerVR GE8320 |
| Max Display Support | FHD+ (2520 x 1080) @ 60Hz | HD+ (1600 x 720) @ 60Hz |
| Camera Support | Single: 48MP, Dual: 16MP + 16MP | Single: 25MP, Dual: 13MP + 13MP |
| Video Recording | 1080p @ 30fps | 1080p @ 30fps |
| 4G Modem | LTE Cat-7 (DL) / Cat-13 (UL) | LTE Cat-4 (DL/UL) |
| RAM Support | Up to 8GB LPDDR4x | Up to 6GB LPDDR4x |
| Storage Support | eMMC 5.1 | eMMC 5.1 |
| Manufacturing Process | 12nm | 12nm |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.0 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the Helio G50 and G35?
The most significant differences are in the CPU architecture and connectivity. The Helio G50 uses a more advanced hybrid design with Cortex-A75 performance cores and supports faster LTE Cat-7 speeds, while the G35 uses only Cortex-A53 cores and a slower Cat-4 modem.
Which chipset is better for gaming?
The Helio G50 is generally better suited for gaming. Its CPU provides higher performance, and its ability to support FHD+ displays means it can be paired with sharper screens, offering a more detailed visual experience in supported games.
Can phones with these chipsets use high-resolution cameras?
Yes, but within limits. The Helio G50 supports camera sensors up to 48MP, while the Helio G35 supports up to 25MP. The actual camera performance in a phone depends heavily on the sensor quality and software tuning implemented by the device manufacturer.
Do both support fast charging?
The chipsets themselves do not dictate charging speed; that is determined by the phone’s design and power management IC. Phones using either the Helio G50 or G35 may or may not include fast charging technology.
Final Thoughts
The MediaTek Helio G50 and Helio G35 serve distinct tiers within the entry-level processor market. The Helio G50 offers a more balanced profile with better CPU performance, support for higher-resolution displays and cameras, and improved cellular connectivity. The Helio G35 provides a capable foundation for very basic smartphones, focusing on essential functionality. The choice between devices powered by these chipsets typically comes down to the specific performance and feature level a user requires from a budget-conscious smartphone. Examining the full specifications of a device, not just the chipset name, provides the clearest picture of its capabilities.