HiSilicon Kirin 9000S

HiSilicon Kirin 9000S: Overview of the 2025 Smartphone Processor

Analysis of capabilities, comparison with competitors, and device selection tips

Introduction

In 2025, mobile processors continue to amaze with their performance, but not all chips are created equal. The HiSilicon Kirin 9000S, released by Huawei, remains a notable player in the market, combining unique engineering solutions and optimization. Despite being built on a 14nm process technology, which is now considered outdated, this SoC demonstrates impressive test results. In this article, we will explore how it achieves this, who it is suitable for, and what nuances to pay attention to.

1. Architecture and Process Technology: Hybrid Structure and Optimization

Cores and Frequencies

The Kirin 9000S uses a hybrid architecture with 12 cores divided into three clusters:

- 1× Cortex-X3 (2.62 GHz) – for peak loads (gaming, rendering);

- 3× Cortex-A715 (2.15 GHz) – balance between performance and power consumption;

- 8× Cortex-A510 (1.5 GHz) – background tasks and battery saving.

This configuration allows for effective task distribution, minimizing heat generation. However, the 14nm process technology limits frequency potential — competitors (such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4) operate on a 3nm process, giving them an advantage in transistor density.

GPU Maleoon 910

The Maleoon 910 graphics accelerator supports Vulkan 1.3 and OpenGL ES 3.2 but lacks hardware acceleration for ray tracing, which could be a downside for AAA games. However, it is optimized for energy efficiency: in 3DMark Wild Life Extreme tests, it delivers stable 35–40 FPS, which is sufficient for mobile gaming at medium settings.

Neural Accelerator

The built-in NPU (Da Vinci architecture) provides 12 TOPS, enough for real-time photo processing, object recognition, and voice assistant functionality. For example, scenarios such as automatic portrait retouching or noise reduction in video are performed without delays.

2. Performance in Real Tasks

Gaming

In Genshin Impact at medium settings (1080p), the Kirin 9000S maintains 50–55 FPS, but at maximum graphics settings, drops to around 30 FPS due to GPU limitations. In comparison, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 demonstrates 60 FPS under similar conditions without stutters. However, the 7W TDP and cooling systems in smartphones based on Kirin (e.g., Huawei Mate 60 Pro) enable gaming for 40–50 minutes without overheating.

Multimedia and AI

- 8K Video: The chip easily handles recording and playback of 8K@30fps due to an ISP (Image Signal Processor) with HDR10+ support.

- AI Applications: Real-time translation, automatic exposure adjustment in cameras — all run smoothly.

Power Consumption

A 5000 mAh battery (in a typical smartphone with Kirin 9000S) provides 7–8 hours of screen time. In power-saving mode (small cores activated), battery life extends to 10 hours.

3. Built-in Modules: Connectivity of the Future

- Balong 7500 Modem: Supports 5G SA/NSA and frequency aggregation, but the maximum download speed is 3.4 Gbps, which is lower than Snapdragon X75 (10 Gbps).

- Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4: Enables connection to routers with bandwidth up to 30 Gbps, while gaming latency reduces to 5 ms.

- Satellite Communication: Emergency messaging via BeiDou (Chinese system) — useful for travelers.

4. Comparison with Competitors

- Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 (Qualcomm): Built on a 3nm process, Single-Core Geekbench 6 – 1800, Multi-Core – 6500. Better for gaming, but more expensive (devices from $900).

- Apple A18 Bionic (iPhone 16): Energy efficiency and optimization for iOS, but limited compatibility with the Android ecosystem.

- MediaTek Dimensity 9400: Cheaper ($600–700 per device), but falls short in stability.

The Kirin 9000S occupies a niche between the mid-range and premium segments, offering a balance of price ($500–700) and capabilities.

5. Use Scenarios

- Gaming: Suitable for casual games (PUBG Mobile, COD Mobile at medium settings). Hardcore gamers would be better off with Snapdragon.

- Daily Tasks: Social media, streaming, multitasking — no lags.

- Photography and Video: Cameras up to 200 MP, 8K recording, AI stabilization — strong suits of the processor. The Huawei Mate 60 Pro with this chip remains at the top of DxOMark.

6. Pros and Cons

Pros:

- Excellent optimization for EMUI 13 (based on Android 14);

- Support for Wi-Fi 7 and 5G;

- Low power consumption;

- Affordable device prices.

Cons:

- The 14nm process technology limits performance under peak loads;

- No hardware ray tracing in GPU;

- Lack of global support for Google Mobile Services in certain regions.

7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone

- Cooling: Look for models with vapor chambers or graphite heatsinks (e.g., Honor Magic V2).

- RAM: A minimum of 8GB for gaming and multitasking.

- Price: Devices with Kirin 9000S range from $500 to $700. Popular models include Huawei Nova 12 Ultra, Honor 90 GT.

8. Final Conclusion: Who is the Kirin 9000S Suitable For?

This processor is an ideal choice for:

- Budget-conscious users looking for flagship features at half the price;

- Amateur photographers valuing quality image processing;

- Travelers needing reliable connectivity.

The main benefits: stability, support for modern communication standards, and battery life. If you are not chasing maximum FPS in games, the Kirin 9000S will be a reliable companion for the next 2–3 years.

Updated in April 2025. Prices are current as of the publication date.