Quick Answer
The MediaTek Helio G85 and Helio G81 are closely related 4G smartphone chipsets designed for budget-friendly devices. The primary difference lies in their GPU performance, with the Helio G85 featuring a slightly more capable graphics processor. In most other aspects, including CPU configuration and manufacturing process, the two are very similar.
MediaTek Helio G85 vs MediaTek Helio G81: Full Comparison
Introduction
When evaluating entry-level and budget smartphones, the system-on-chip (SoC) is a critical component that influences overall performance. MediaTek’s Helio G-series, including the G85 and G81, are popular choices in this segment. This comparison breaks down the specifications and capabilities of these two processors, helping to clarify their differences and similarities. Understanding these details can provide insight into the expected performance of devices powered by these chipsets.
CPU and Manufacturing Process
The core computing power of both chipsets is nearly identical. They share the same fundamental architecture and production technology.
- Shared Foundation: Both the Helio G85 and G81 are built on a 12nm manufacturing process and feature an octa-core CPU setup. This configuration typically consists of two ARM Cortex-A75 cores for performance and six ARM Cortex-A55 cores for efficiency.
- Clock Speed: The maximum clock speed for the performance cores is generally the same for both, often cited at up to 2.0 GHz. This results in very comparable raw CPU performance for everyday tasks like app launches, social media browsing, and basic multitasking.
GPU and Gaming Performance
This is the area where the most notable difference between the two chipsets exists. The “G” in their names stands for “Gaming,” highlighting the focus on graphics.
- Helio G85 GPU: It is equipped with an ARM Mali-G52 MC2 GPU. This is a more modern and efficient graphics architecture compared to what is found in the G81.
- Helio G81 GPU: It uses an older ARM Mali-G52 MP2 GPU. While the core count (MP2/MC2 both indicate two cores) is similar, the implementation in the G85 is generally more optimized.
- Performance Impact: The Helio G85 typically offers better graphics performance. This can translate to slightly higher frame rates or the ability to run games at marginally better graphical settings compared to the G81. For casual gaming, the difference may be subtle, but it is a measurable distinction.
Camera, Display, and Connectivity Support
Both chipsets support similar feature sets for smartphone manufacturers, covering cameras, screens, and network connectivity.
- Camera Support: They offer comparable capabilities, typically supporting single-camera setups up to 48MP or dual-camera systems (e.g., 16MP + 16MP). Features like electronic image stabilization (EIS) are supported on both.
- Display Support: Both can drive displays with a resolution of up to Full HD+ (2520 x 1080 pixels) and a refresh rate of 60Hz. Support for higher refresh rates like 90Hz or 120Hz is not a standard feature of these particular chipsets.
- Connectivity: As 4G LTE chipsets, they support similar cellular modem speeds. They also include standard connectivity options like Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0.
AI and Additional Features
Both processors include a basic AI processing unit (APU) to handle tasks like scene detection for cameras or background blur in portraits. The performance and capabilities of these AI units are very similar, aimed at enabling entry-level AI-enhanced features rather than intensive AI computing.
Comparison Table: MediaTek Helio G85 vs Helio G81
| Feature | MediaTek Helio G85 | MediaTek Helio G81 |
|---|---|---|
| Launch Date | Q2 2020 | Q1 2020 |
| CPU | Octa-core (2x Cortex-A75 up to 2.0 GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 up to 1.8 GHz) | Octa-core (2x Cortex-A75 up to 2.0 GHz + 6x Cortex-A55 up to 1.8 GHz) |
| GPU | ARM Mali-G52 MC2 (at ~1000 MHz) | ARM Mali-G52 MP2 (at ~950 MHz) |
| Manufacturing Process | 12nm FinFET | 12nm FinFET |
| Max Display Support | Full HD+ (2520 x 1080) @ 60Hz | Full HD+ (2520 x 1080) @ 60Hz |
| Camera Support | Up to 48MP single or 16MP+16MP dual. EIS support. | Up to 48MP single or 16MP+16MP dual. EIS support. |
| Memory Support | LPDDR4x up to 8GB, eMMC 5.1 | LPDDR4x up to 8GB, eMMC 5.1 |
| AI Processing Unit (APU) | Yes (Standard) | Yes (Standard) |
| Connectivity | 4G LTE Cat-7/Cat-13, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 | 4G LTE Cat-7/Cat-13, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Primary Differentiator | Superior GPU (Mali-G52 MC2) for better gaming graphics. | Slightly older GPU (Mali-G52 MP2). |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the main difference between the Helio G85 and G81?
The main difference is the graphics processing unit (GPU). The Helio G85 uses an ARM Mali-G52 MC2 GPU, which typically offers better gaming and graphics performance than the Mali-G52 MP2 GPU found in the Helio G81.
Is the CPU performance different between these two chipsets?
No, the CPU configuration is essentially identical. Both feature an octa-core setup with two Cortex-A75 performance cores and six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores running at similar clock speeds, resulting in nearly indistinguishable CPU performance for general tasks.
Which chipset is better for gaming, the G85 or G81?
The Helio G85 is generally considered better suited for gaming due to its more capable Mali-G52 MC2 GPU. It can often achieve slightly higher frame rates in mobile games compared to the G81.
Do phones with these chipsets support 5G connectivity?
No, both the MediaTek Helio G85 and Helio G81 are 4G LTE chipsets. They do not have integrated 5G modems.
Final Thoughts
The MediaTek Helio G85 and Helio G81 are very similar processors, sharing the same CPU design, manufacturing process, and core feature support for cameras, displays, and connectivity. The defining difference lies in the graphics subsystem, where the G85 holds a modest advantage. When considering a device powered by one of these chipsets, the G85 may be the preferable choice for users who prioritize a slightly smoother gaming experience. However, for general smartphone use, the performance gap is typically minimal. The final performance of any smartphone also depends on other factors like software optimization, cooling, and RAM management implemented by the device manufacturer.