MediaTek Helio G80
MediaTek Helio G80: Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks and Moderate Gaming
Analysis of the Chip's Capabilities and Use Cases in 2025
Introduction
In the world of mobile technology, the balance between price and performance remains key. The MediaTek Helio G80, released in 2020, continues to be a popular choice for budget smartphones even in 2025. This processor combines sufficient power for everyday tasks, moderate gaming, and energy efficiency. In this article, we will explore what the Helio G80 is capable of today, who it suits, and how it stacks up against competitors.
1. Architecture and Technology Process: The Foundation of Performance
Cores and Frequencies
The Helio G80 is built on a 12-nanometer technology process, which is considered outdated by 2025 standards (modern flagships use 4-5 nm). However, this does not prevent the chip from showing stable performance thanks to its hybrid big.LITTLE architecture:
- 2 high-performance Cortex-A75 cores with a frequency of up to 2.0 GHz for resource-intensive tasks.
- 6 energy-efficient Cortex-A55 cores with a frequency of 1.8 GHz for background processes.
Graphics Accelerator
The Mali-G52 MP2 GPU, while not the most powerful, supports Vulkan and OpenGL ES 3.2 APIs, ensuring compatibility with most mobile games. However, its limited performance (only 2 cores) requires optimization from developers.
Cache and Memory
- L2 cache: 320 KB.
- RAM support: LPDDR4X up to 8 GB (1800 MHz frequency).
- Storage: eMMC 5.1 or UFS 2.1 (the latter is rarely found in devices with G80).
2. Performance in Real Tasks
Gaming
The Helio G80 can handle popular games like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Genshin Impact only on low or medium settings (30-40 FPS). For comfortable gaming, optimizing the device is crucial:
- Presence of a cooling system (passive or active).
- At least 4 GB of RAM.
Multimedia
- Display: Full HD+ (1080p) support with a 60 Hz refresh rate.
- Video: Supports playback of 4K/30fps videos, but recording is limited to 1080p/60fps.
- Audio: HyperEngine technology improves audio latency in games.
Artificial Intelligence
The built-in AI accelerator (APU 1.0) is used for basic tasks:
- Automatic camera settings adjustment.
- Scene recognition.
- Background blur in portrait mode.
Power Consumption and Heating
With a TDP of 5 watts, smartphones with the Helio G80 can operate for up to 2 days with moderate use. However, under load (gaming, video recording), the chip heats up to 45-50°C, which may lead to throttling.
3. Integrated Modules: Connectivity and Wireless Technologies
Modem
- 4G LTE Cat-7: Speeds of up to 300 Mbps for downloads and 100 Mbps for uploads.
- 5G absent — this is a major drawback in 2025 when fifth-generation networks have become standard even in the budget segment.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with Dual-Band support.
- Bluetooth 5.0 (without LE Audio).
Navigation
Supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou for accurate positioning.
4. Comparison with Competitors
MediaTek Helio G80 vs Snapdragon 680
- CPU: Snapdragon 680 (6 nm) is slightly more efficient in multi-threaded tasks thanks to Cortex-A73.
- GPU: Adreno 610 in SD 680 outperforms Mali-G52 in gaming.
- Price: Devices using G80 are cheaper ($120-$180 vs. $150-$220).
MediaTek Helio G80 vs Unisoc Tiger T610
- Unisoc T610 (12 nm) lags in performance but wins on price (smartphones starting from $100).
Generational Progress
Against newer chips (e.g., MediaTek Dimensity 7000 with 6 nm and 5G), the Helio G80 appears archaic. However, its advantages are stability and availability.
5. Use Cases
Gaming
Suitable for casual games (Candy Crush, Among Us) and shooters at medium settings. For AAA titles like Honkai: Star Rail, graphical settings will need to be reduced.
Everyday Tasks
- Social media, messaging, video streaming — without lag.
- Multitasking: working with 5-7 apps in the background (with 6 GB of RAM).
Photo and Video
- Maximum camera resolution: 48 MP (single sensor) or 16+16 MP (dual camera).
- Night mode and HDR require software processing, which slows down shooting.
6. Pros and Cons of the Processor
Advantages
- Low cost of devices ($120-$180).
- Energy efficiency (5000 mAh batteries provide 8-10 hours of screen time).
- Support for modern connectivity standards (except for 5G).
Disadvantages
- Lack of 5G.
- Weak GPU for demanding games.
- Limited support for AI features.
7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
What to Pay Attention To?
1. Cooling: Models with graphite or copper heatsinks run cooler.
2. RAM: Opt for 6 GB of RAM for gaming and multitasking.
3. Display: An IPS matrix with a 60 Hz refresh rate is the optimal choice.
4. Battery: At least 5000 mAh for long usage.
Typical Devices
- Realme Narzo 30A: 6 GB RAM, 6000 mAh, priced at $150.
- Xiaomi Redmi 10: 4 GB RAM, 90 Hz display, $170.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is the Helio G80 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Are not ready to pay extra for 5G.
- Value battery life.
- Play mobile games occasionally.
Main Benefits: affordable price, stability, and a time-tested platform. In 2025, the Helio G80 remains a niche solution, but for millions of users, it continues to be a reliable companion in daily life.
Conclusion
The MediaTek Helio G80 is an example of a successful balance between price and functionality. Despite its technical lag, it remains relevant in the budget segment, proving that one doesn't always need to chase flagships. If your requirements are modest and your budget is limited, this chip will be a sensible choice.