Quick Answer
The MediaTek Helio G85 and Helio G36 are smartphone processors designed for different market segments. The Helio G85 is a mid-range gaming-focused chipset, while the Helio G36 is an entry-level processor for basic smartphones. The key differences lie in their manufacturing process, CPU/GPU performance, camera support, and connectivity features.
MediaTek Helio G85 vs MediaTek Helio G36: Full Comparison
Introduction
When evaluating smartphone performance, the processor, or System-on-a-Chip (SoC), plays a central role. MediaTek’s Helio G series is known for offering capable performance, often with a focus on gaming. This comparison examines two chips from this family: the Helio G85 and the Helio G36. While they share the “G” branding, they target distinctly different devices and user needs. Understanding their specifications and capabilities can help clarify what level of performance to expect from a device powered by either chip.
CPU and Manufacturing Process
The fundamental architecture of these two chipsets reveals their intended performance tiers.
- Helio G85: Built on a 12nm manufacturing process. It features an octa-core CPU with two ARM Cortex-A75 performance cores clocked at up to 2.0GHz and six ARM Cortex-A55 efficiency cores at 1.8GHz. This big.LITTLE configuration is designed to balance power and efficiency for more demanding tasks.
- Helio G36: Utilizes a more dated 12nm process as well. Its CPU configuration is simpler, consisting of eight ARM Cortex-A53 cores, all clocked at 2.2GHz. The Cortex-A53 is an older, efficiency-focused core design, meaning the G36 is geared towards handling basic, everyday tasks.
The G85’s use of more modern Cortex-A75 cores gives it a significant advantage in single-threaded and complex multi-threaded performance compared to the G36.
GPU and Gaming Performance
This is a primary area of differentiation, as the “G” series emphasizes gaming capabilities.
- Helio G85: Equipped with an ARM Mali-G52 MC2 GPU clocked at 1GHz. This GPU supports mainstream mobile gaming at medium to low graphics settings. It is paired with MediaTek’s HyperEngine technology, which aims to enhance gaming experiences by managing resources and connectivity.
- Helio G36: Features an IMG PowerVR GE8320 GPU. This is a very basic GPU designed for casual gaming and smooth UI rendering. It is not intended for graphically intensive 3D games and typically supports lower display resolutions and refresh rates.
The G85 is clearly positioned for users who play games, while the G36 is sufficient for simple puzzle games or lightweight applications.
Camera, Display, and Memory Support
The supported peripherals define the multimedia and multitasking capabilities of devices using these chips.
- Camera: The Helio G85 supports single cameras up to 48MP or dual 16MP+16MP setups. The Helio G36 supports a lower maximum resolution, typically up to a 13MP single camera.
- Display: The G85 can drive displays with a Full HD+ (2520 x 1080) resolution at a 90Hz refresh rate. The G36 supports HD+ (1600 x 720) resolution at a standard 90Hz refresh rate, indicating its use in devices with more basic screens.
- RAM and Storage: The G85 supports faster LPDDR4x memory and eMMC 5.1 storage. The G36 supports LPDDR3 or LPDDR4x memory and eMMC 5.1 storage, which can impact app loading times and general system responsiveness.
Connectivity and AI
Modern features like AI processing and network connectivity also differ.
- Connectivity: Both integrate 4G LTE modems. The Helio G85 typically supports Cat-7 DL/Cat-13 UL speeds, while the G36 supports Cat-4/Cat-5 speeds, which are slower. The G85 also generally supports dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4/5GHz), whereas the G36 may be limited to 2.4GHz.
- AI Processing: The Helio G85 includes a dedicated AI Processing Unit (APU) for tasks like camera scene detection. The Helio G36 does not have a dedicated AI accelerator, relying on the CPU for any basic AI-related functions.
Comparison Table: MediaTek Helio G85 vs Helio G36
| Feature | MediaTek Helio G85 | MediaTek Helio G36 |
|---|---|---|
| Manufacturing Process | 12nm | 12nm |
| CPU Configuration | 2x Cortex-A75 @ 2.0GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 @ 1.8GHz | 8x Cortex-A53 @ 2.2GHz |
| GPU | ARM Mali-G52 MC2 @ 1000MHz | IMG PowerVR GE8320 |
| Max Display Support | 2520 x 1080 (FHD+) @ 90Hz | 1600 x 720 (HD+) @ 90Hz |
| Max Camera Support | 48MP single / 16MP+16MP dual | 13MP single |
| Memory Support | LPDDR4x, eMMC 5.1 | LPDDR3/LPDDR4x, eMMC 5.1 |
| AI Capabilities | Dedicated APU | No dedicated APU |
| 4G LTE Modem | Cat-7 DL / Cat-13 UL | Cat-4 DL / Cat-5 UL |
| Wi-Fi Support | Typically 802.11ac (2.4/5GHz) | Typically 802.11 b/g/n (2.4GHz) |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| Target Device Segment | Budget to mid-range smartphones | Entry-level, ultra-budget smartphones |
FAQ
What is the main difference between the Helio G85 and G36?
The main difference is performance tier. The Helio G85 uses more powerful Cortex-A75 CPU cores and a Mali-G52 GPU for gaming, while the G36 uses older Cortex-A53 cores and a basic GPU for essential tasks.
Can the Helio G36 run high-end games?
Typically, no. The Helio G36’s IMG PowerVR GE8320 GPU is designed for casual gaming and smooth UI operation. It generally struggles with graphically demanding 3D games.
Which chip is better for battery life?
Battery life depends heavily on the device’s battery capacity, software, and display. While the G36’s simpler cores are efficient, the G85’s big.LITTLE architecture can also be power-efficient by offloading tasks to its efficiency cores. Real-world battery life is usually comparable within similar device categories.
Do both chips support 5G connectivity?
No. Both the MediaTek Helio G85 and Helio G36 are 4G LTE chipsets. They do not have integrated 5G modems.
Which chip supports a better camera system?
The Helio G85 supports higher-resolution sensors (up to 48MP) and has a dedicated AI Processing Unit (APU) for camera enhancements, giving it a clear advantage for more capable camera systems compared to the G36.
Final Thoughts
The MediaTek Helio G85 and Helio G36 serve distinct purposes in the smartphone market. The Helio G85 is a competent chip for budget-friendly devices that aim to offer a balanced experience with decent gaming capabilities, better camera support, and modern features. The Helio G36, on the other hand, is firmly positioned in the entry-level segment, powering devices where cost is the primary concern and performance needs are minimal. The choice between devices using these processors generally comes down to the user’s performance expectations and budget. For basic communication, social media, and lightweight apps, a G36-powered device may be sufficient. For more consistent performance in multitasking, gaming, and photography, a device with the Helio G85 is typically the more capable option.