MediaTek Helio A25
MediaTek Helio A25: Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks
April 2025
Introduction
In the world of budget smartphones, the balance between price and performance plays a crucial role. The MediaTek Helio A25, introduced back in 2020, continues to be a popular solution for devices priced up to $150. Despite utilizing the outdated 12nm manufacturing process, this processor remains relevant due to its energy efficiency and optimization for basic tasks. In this article, we will explore who the Helio A25 is suitable for in 2025 and what aspects to consider when choosing a smartphone based on it.
1. Architecture and Manufacturing Process: The Foundation of Efficiency
Cores and Frequencies
The Helio A25 is built on an 8-core architecture divided into two clusters:
- 4 Cortex-A53 cores at up to 1.8 GHz — for resource-intensive tasks;
- 4 Cortex-A53 cores at 1.5 GHz — for background processes.
This approach (MediaTek's CorePilot technology) allows for load distribution, saving battery life. However, all cores belong to the energy-efficient Cortex-A53 series, which limits performance in demanding scenarios.
GPU PowerVR GE8320
The PowerVR GE8320 graphics processor operates at a frequency of up to 650 MHz. It supports:
- Screen resolution up to HD+ (1600×720);
- OpenGL ES 3.2 and Vulkan 1.0 APIs;
- Basic effects in games (for example, shadows and low-detail textures).
12nm Manufacturing Process
By 2025 standards, the 12nm process is considered outdated (competitors are utilizing 6-7nm). However, this reduces production costs, which is critical for budget devices. The processor's TDP is 5W, ensuring moderate heating even under prolonged load.
2. Performance: The Realities of 2025
Gaming
The Helio A25 can handle only less demanding titles:
- Mobile Legends, Among Us — stable 30-40 FPS on low settings;
- PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile — up to 25-30 FPS on “Low” settings;
- Modern AAA games (like Genshin Impact) — not recommended due to lag.
Multimedia
- Supports 1080p@30fps video (H.264/H.265 decoding);
- Video recording — maximum 1080p@30fps;
- Streaming on YouTube and social media — without issues.
Artificial Intelligence
There is no built-in AI accelerator. Neural network operations (like photo enhancement) are handled by the CPU, which slows down performance. Typical scenarios include:
- Automatic brightness adjustment;
- Basic photo retouching in Google Photos.
Energy Consumption and Heating
Thanks to the 5W TDP, smartphones with the Helio A25 rarely overheat. Average battery life is 8-10 hours under moderate use. However, under heavy load (such as video calls), a battery capacity of 5000 mAh can drain in 5-6 hours.
3. Integrated Modules: Connectivity and Communication
- 4G LTE Cat-7 Modem: speeds up to 300 Mbps for download and 100 Mbps for upload. 5G support is absent.
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): operates on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands, but the maximum speed is limited to 433 Mbps.
- Bluetooth 5.0: connection to headphones, fitness trackers, and other peripherals.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou — quick location identification in cities, though there may be delays in densely built environments.
What is Missing?
- No support for Wi-Fi 6 or Bluetooth 5.3;
- Lack of 5G makes the chip unsuitable for regions where new networks dominate.
4. Comparison with Competitors
MediaTek Helio A25 vs. Qualcomm Snapdragon 480 (2021)
- The Snapdragon 480 (8nm, 2×Cortex-A76 + 6×Cortex-A55) outperforms in CPU performance (Geekbench 6 Single-Core: ~450) and GPU (Adreno 619). However, smartphones based on it start at $180.
- The Helio A25 is cheaper, but it falls short in gaming and multitasking.
Unisoc Tiger T606 (2022)
- The Tiger T606 (12nm, 2×A75 + 6×A55) demonstrates better multi-threaded performance (Geekbench 6 Multi-Core: ~950). However, its power consumption is higher (TDP 6W), reducing battery life.
Conclusion: The Helio A25 remains relevant only in the “ultra-budget” segment ($100-150). For smoother performance, consider the Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 6100+.
5. Use Cases: Where Helio A25 Suffices
Gaming
Only for casual games: Candy Crush, Subway Surfers, checkers. For game streaming via Xbox Cloud or GeForce Now, a stable Wi-Fi 5 connection is required.
Everyday Tasks
- Social networks (TikTok, Instagram);
- Messengers (WhatsApp, Telegram);
- Web surfing (up to 5 tabs in Chrome).
Photo and Video
Smartphones with the Helio A25 typically feature cameras with sensors ranging from 13 to 48 MP. The chip supports:
- HDR capture;
- Panoramas;
- Background blur in portrait mode (software-based, without a TOF sensor).
1080p video looks acceptable in good lighting, but noise appears in low-light conditions.
6. Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Low device prices ($100-150);
- Energy efficiency;
- Support for basic communication standards.
Weaknesses:
- Limited performance;
- Lack of 5G and Wi-Fi 6;
- Weak GPU for gaming.
7. Tips for Choosing a Smartphone with Helio A25
1. RAM: at least 4 GB for Android 14+.
2. Display: HD+ (720p) with IPS matrix — a balance between clarity and energy consumption.
3. Battery: from 5000 mAh to compensate for less modern optimization.
4. Brands: Tecno, Infinix, Realme often use Helio A25 in models like Tecno Spark 12 or Infinix Smart 9.
Examples of 2025 Models:
- Tecno Spark 12: 6.8" HD+, 4/64 GB, 16 MP camera — $110;
- Infinix Smart 9 Pro: 6.6" HD+, 4/128 GB, NFC — $130.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is the Helio A25 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for:
- Users with basic needs: calls, messaging, social media feed;
- Students and seniors who value price;
- Backup devices — for example, for travel.
Main Benefits:
- Accessibility;
- Long battery life;
- Reliability in simple tasks.
However, if you plan to use a smartphone for 3-4 years, it's better to consider more modern SoCs like the MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ or Snapdragon 4 Gen 3.
Conclusion
The MediaTek Helio A25 is an example of a “workhorse” for the budget segment. Despite its technological obsolescence, it remains in demand where saving money is more important than power. With the right expectations, this chip can serve as a reliable companion in everyday life.