HiSilicon Kirin 810
HiSilicon Kirin 810: A Versatile Chip for Balanced Smartphones
April 2025
Since its release in 2019, the HiSilicon Kirin 810 processor has become a significant milestone in the mid-range smartphone segment. Despite its age, devices based on it continue to be in demand in 2025 due to a successful combination of performance, energy efficiency, and affordable pricing. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this SoC noteworthy, how it performs in contemporary tasks, and who it's best suited for.
1. Architecture and Process Technology: Innovations in a Compact Format
Cores, Frequencies, and Manufacturing Process
The Kirin 810 is built on TSMC's 7nm process technology—one of the most advanced at the time of its creation. This has led to reduced power consumption (TDP 5 W) and improved thermal efficiency. The processor employs a hybrid architecture of an 8-core CPU with two clusters:
- 2 high-performance Cortex-A76 cores with a frequency of up to 2.27 GHz—for resource-intensive tasks;
- 6 energy-efficient Cortex-A55 cores with a frequency of 1.88 GHz—for background processes.
This approach (Big.LITTLE) provides a balance between speed and battery life: low-power cores are activated under light loads, while A76 cores are engaged during gaming or photo editing tasks.
Mali-G52 MP6 Graphics Processor
The integrated GPU Mali-G52 MP6 with 6 compute units supports Vulkan 1.1, OpenGL ES 3.2, and OpenCL 2.0. This allows mobile games to run at medium settings and accelerates video rendering. To enhance graphics, Huawei has implemented GPU Turbo 3.0, optimizing the load on the GPU.
Da Vinci Neural Processor
Particular attention deserves the NPU (Neural Processing Unit) based on the Da Vinci architecture. This unit specializes in machine learning and is used for AI tasks, such as scene recognition in the camera, portrait processing, and power optimization.
2. Performance in Real Tasks
Gaming
The Kirin 810 handles most popular games of 2024–2025 at medium settings:
- Genshin Impact — 30–40 FPS (medium settings, 720p resolution);
- PUBG Mobile — 40–50 FPS (HD graphics);
- Call of Duty: Mobile — 50–60 FPS (balanced mode).
However, in heavy scenes, FPS drops may occur due to the limitations of the Mali-G52. For comfortable gaming, it is recommended to use smartphones with liquid cooling systems, such as the Honor 9X Pro.
Multimedia and Multitasking
- 4K Video: The chip easily records and plays back footage in 4K@30fps.
- Multitasking: 8 GB of RAM in top models (for example, Huawei Nova 5T) allow for keeping 10–12 applications in the background without lag.
Power Consumption and Heating
Thanks to the 7nm process technology and AI load management, the Kirin 810 demonstrates excellent battery life. A smartphone with a 4000 mAh battery (for instance, Huawei P Smart 2025) operates for up to 8–10 hours under active usage. Heating rarely exceeds 40°C even during gaming.
3. Built-in Modules: Communication Without Excess
- Modem: The built-in LTE modem supports speeds up to Cat.21 (1.4 Gbps). 5G is absent—this is a major limitation for 2025.
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth: The Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0 modules provide stable connections but lag behind Wi-Fi 6 in newer chips.
- Navigation: Support for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou ensures accurate positioning.
4. Comparison with Competitors
Kirin 810 vs Snapdragon 730G
- CPU: Both chips have a similar architecture (2+6 cores), but the Snapdragon 730G outperforms in single-threaded tasks due to higher frequencies (2.4 GHz vs 2.27 GHz).
- GPU: Adreno 618 in Snapdragon performs better than Mali-G52 MP6 in gaming by 10–15%.
- Energy Efficiency: The 8nm process of Snapdragon lags behind 7nm Kirin.
Kirin 810 vs Dimensity 800
- 5G: Dimensity 800 supports fifth-generation networks but falls short in energy consumption.
- AI: The NPU in Kirin 810 is faster in photo processing tasks.
5. Use Cases
Gaming
Suitable for casual gaming and medium settings in AAA titles. Models with active cooling are recommended.
Everyday Tasks
Social media, streaming, and office applications—all handled effortlessly by Kirin 810.
Photo and Video
AI is used for automatic adjustment of shooting parameters, portrait mode, and video stabilization. Examples of devices:
- Huawei Nova 5T (48 MP + 8 MP ultra-wide);
- Honor 9X (48 MP with night mode).
6. Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Energy efficiency of the 7nm process;
- Powerful NPU for AI tasks;
- Affordable devices ($200–$300).
Disadvantages:
- Absence of 5G;
- Mali-G52 lags behind Adreno and Mali-G77;
- Limited support for new codecs.
7. Practical Tips for Choosing
1. Cooling: Look for models with copper pipes or graphene sheets.
2. Display: An AMOLED screen with a 90 Hz refresh rate will enhance gaming experience.
3. Battery: An optimal capacity of 4000–5000 mAh.
4. Cameras: The best results come from smartphones with Sony IMX582 or Samsung GM1 sensors.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is Kirin 810 Suitable For?
This processor is the choice for those seeking a balanced smartphone without overpaying for top features. It is ideal for:
- Students—long battery life, stable performance;
- Mobile photography enthusiasts—AI enhancements and support for multi-camera modules;
- Budget gamers—ability to play smoothly at medium settings.
In 2025, the Kirin 810 remains relevant in devices priced up to $300, offering better energy efficiency than many competitors. If 5G and ultra-high graphics are not critical for you, this chip will be a reliable companion for 2–3 years.