MediaTek Dimensity 7450X: almost the same as the 7400X with updated 5G and AI

The MediaTek Dimensity 7450X does not come across as a new generation but rather as a minimal revision of the Dimensity 7400X. The CPU, GPU, memory, and storage have hardly changed: it still features Cortex-A78, Cortex-A55, Mali-G615 MC2, LPDDR5/LPDDR4x, and UFS 3.1/2.2. The main differences include a Release 17 5G modem, a slight increase in AI performance, and enhancements tailored for foldable smartphones.

This update does not provide a significant speed increase. Its purpose is to give mid-tier foldable smartphone manufacturers a fresher platform without switching to expensive SoCs.

What has changed compared to the Dimensity 7400X

The main difference between the Dimensity 7450X and the Dimensity 7400X is not performance. The basic hardware components of the chips are nearly identical: the same CPU cores, the same GPU, and the same memory and storage support.

The Dimensity 7450X does not transition to a new class of CPU or GPU. MediaTek updated the modem, AI block, and platform features but kept the chip's core unchanged.

CPU: no new generation cores

The processor section uses a 4+4 scheme: four Cortex-A78 cores running at up to 2.6 GHz and four Cortex-A55 cores. This familiar mid-range configuration was already used in the Dimensity 7400X.

For interfaces, browsers, messengers, cameras, and daily applications, this CPU is sufficient. However, in heavy tasks, the limitations remain with the Cortex-A78 architecture and the absence of a transition to a more modern variant. This chip does not rise to the level of the Dimensity 8300, 8400, or 8500.

GPU: no changes

The graphics capabilities have also not improved. The Dimensity 7450X uses the Mali-G615 MC2 - the same mid-range GPU configuration. It is adequate for interfaces, video playback, daily applications, and casual games, but in demanding projects, graphics settings will need to be reduced.

MediaTek's gaming optimizations may enhance stability but do not change the GPU's level. Therefore, the Dimensity 7450X remains a solution for mid-tier foldable smartphones rather than a gaming chip.

Benchmarks: minimal increase

Benchmarks confirm that the Dimensity 7450X shows almost no difference in computing power from the Dimensity 7400X. There is a difference, but it is too small to proclaim a notable performance upgrade.

For buyers, this means a simple conclusion: a smartphone with the Dimensity 7450X will not be noticeably faster than the model with the Dimensity 7400X solely because of the new chip. The difference is more likely to manifest in the modem, energy consumption, AI processing, and specific device settings.

Connectivity: the main practical update

The principal practical difference of the Dimensity 7450X is the upgrade to 5G Release 17. The chip supports 3CC carrier aggregation and is claimed to reach a download speed of up to 3.27 Gbps. It also features Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.4, and support for major navigation systems.

For a mid-range smartphone, the modem is just as important as the CPU: it affects download speeds, network retention, and battery consumption during mobile data transmission. This is particularly important for foldables: there is less space inside for batteries and cooling compared to larger monoblocks.

AI and camera: a small update, not a revolution

MediaTek claims a performance increase of up to 7% for AI. This does not change the class of the chip, but may assist with tasks related to cameras, photo processing, videos, and background algorithms of the smartphone.

The Dimensity 7450X supports cameras up to 200 MP, 4K video recording at 30 frames per second, 4K Video HDR, electronic image stabilization, hardware noise reduction, and AI processing for auto-exposure, white balance, and autofocus.

Support for a 200 MP camera alone does not guarantee high-quality shooting. The final result depends on the sensor, optics, stabilization, and manufacturer algorithms. The chip defines processing capabilities, but the camera quality is determined by the specific smartphone.

Why the X version is needed for foldables

The X index indicates adaptation for foldable smartphones. This includes support for two displays and foldable format scenarios, rather than higher CPU frequencies or a more powerful GPU.

For such devices, a compact body, an external screen, stable connectivity, predictable battery life, and a price lower than flagship foldables are critical. In regular monoblocks, the advantages of the X version would be less noticeable.

What to understand before buying a smartphone with Dimensity 7450X

The Dimensity 7450X does not make a smartphone noticeably faster compared to a model with the Dimensity 7400X. Here, the new name does not signify a new level of performance.

Key takeaways:

• The CPU has hardly changed;
• The GPU remains the Mali-G615 MC2;
• Memory and storage are of the same class;
• The increase in benchmarks is minimal;
• The main update is 5G Release 17;
• AI has become slightly faster;
• The X version is aimed at foldable smartphones.

When choosing a device, it is more important to look not only at the chip name but also at the smartphone itself: battery, displays, camera, cooling, price, and the quality of the software interface.

Conclusion

The MediaTek Dimensity 7450X is a minimal update of the Dimensity 7400X, not a new generation of mid-range chips. The CPU, GPU, memory, and storage have hardly changed. The main differences include 5G Release 17, a slight increase in AI performance, and enhancements for foldable smartphones.

The main conclusion is straightforward: the Dimensity 7450X should not be described as a significant step forward in speed. The modem and AI block have been updated, but the CPU and GPU remain the same.