MediaTek Helio P60
MediaTek Helio P60: Review of the Budget Smartphone Processor for 2025
April 2025
Introduction
The MediaTek Helio P60 is a system-on-chip (SoC) released in 2018, but it is still found in budget smartphones in 2025. Despite its age, this processor remains popular due to its balance of price, performance, and energy efficiency. In this article, we will explore what the Helio P60 is capable of today, who it is suitable for, and how it compares to modern competitors.
1. Architecture and Manufacturing Process
12 nm: Efficiency vs. Power
The Helio P60 is manufactured using a 12-nanometer process, which is considered outdated in 2025 (modern chips use 5–7 nm). However, for its time, it was a step forward: the smaller transistor size allowed for a 15% reduction in power consumption compared to its predecessors using 16 nm.
CPU: 8 Big.LITTLE cores
- 4 Cortex-A73 cores (up to 2 GHz) — for resource-intensive tasks.
- 4 Cortex-A53 cores (up to 2 GHz) — for background processes.
This architecture provides smooth operation for the OS and basic applications, but it lacks the power for multi-threaded tasks (such as video rendering).
GPU: Mali-G72 MP3
The graphics accelerator has three compute units. It supports Vulkan and OpenGL ES 3.2 but struggles with modern games. For instance, in Genshin Impact at medium settings, the frame rate barely reaches 25–30 FPS.
Cache and Memory
- L2 cache: 2 MB (modern processors have up to 8 MB).
- Support for LPDDR4X (up to 8 GB) and eMMC 5.1/UFS 2.1.
2. Performance in Real-World Tasks
Gaming
The Helio P60 is suitable for casual games (e.g., Among Us, Mobile Legends) and older titles like Asphalt 9 on medium settings. However, in Call of Duty: Mobile or Fortnite, users will need to reduce the resolution to HD and turn off effects.
Multimedia
- Video decoding: 4K@30fps (H.265/HEVC).
- Video recording: 4K@30fps, but stabilization is inadequate.
- Audio: 32-bit/192 kHz DAC for enhanced sound.
AI Tasks
The built-in neural processor (APU 1.0) accelerates scene recognition in the camera, portrait processing, and voice command handling. For example, the "AI portrait" mode blurs the background in real-time, but its quality falls short compared to modern smartphones with third-generation NPUs.
Power Consumption and Heating
With a TDP of 5 W and a 12 nm process, it provides up to 10 hours of screen time with a 4000 mAh battery. It rarely exceeds 40°C even under load, but in gaming, frame drops can occur due to throttling.
3. Integrated Modules
Modem
- 4G LTE Cat-7 (speed up to 300 Mbps).
- No 5G support — a major downside in 2025.
Wireless Interfaces
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), but lacking Wi-Fi 6.
- Bluetooth 4.2 (modern chips use BT 5.3).
- GPS, GLONASS, Galileo — navigation works reliably.
Cameras
Supports up to 32 MP cameras or dual 24+16 MP setups. AI algorithms enhance detail and color reproduction, but noise is noticeable in low-light conditions.
4. Comparison with Competitors
2025 Analogues
- Unisoc Tiger T620: 12 nm, Mali-G57 MP1, better GPU performance (+20%).
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 680: 6 nm, Adreno 610, better game optimization.
- MediaTek Helio G85: 12 nm, Mali-G52 MC2, focused on gaming.
Generational Progress
The Helio P60 even lags behind budget chips from 2025. For example, the Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 (4 nm) is 45% faster in AnTuTu and supports 5G.
5. Use Cases
Gaming
Only suitable for less demanding games. For PUBG Mobile or Diablo Immortal, at least Helio G99 is required.
Daily Tasks
- Social media, messengers, web browsing — no lags.
- Multi-window mode — up to 3–4 applications simultaneously.
Photo and Video Recording
Best results are achieved in daylight. Night shots require manual adjustment. 4K video is good for home movies but not for professional editing.
6. Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Low price of smartphones ($150–250).
- Good energy efficiency.
- Support for basic AI functions.
Disadvantages
- No 5G or Wi-Fi 6 support.
- Weak GPU for 2025 games.
- Limited software updates (often Android 12–13).
7. Tips for Choosing a Smartphone with Helio P60
1. RAM Size: At least 4 GB (preferably 6 GB for multitasking).
2. Display: IPS with a 60 Hz refresh rate — optimal choice.
3. Cooling: Models with copper pipes are less likely to throttle during gaming.
4. Brands: Realme, Xiaomi, and Oppo frequently use this chip in their budget lines (e.g., Redmi Note 12E).
8. Final Conclusion: Who is the Helio P60 for?
This processor is ideal for those who:
- Do not chase after novelties: need a smartphone for calls, social media, and occasional games.
- Are budget-conscious: devices with Helio P60 cost $150–250.
- Value battery life: up to 2 days of standby time.
Main benefits: low price, stable performance, support for essential functions. However, if you plan to use the smartphone for 3–4 years, it is better to consider models with 5G and more recent chips (like Snapdragon 6 Gen 2).
Conclusion
In 2025, the MediaTek Helio P60 is an example of a "workhorse" for the budget segment. It may not impress in terms of performance, but it ensures reliable operation of basic functions. If you're looking for an affordable gadget for everyday tasks, this processor is a reasonable choice. However, for gaming and future technologies (AR, 5G), it’s worth looking into more modern solutions.