MediaTek Helio P90
MediaTek Helio P90: Overview and Analysis of a Budget Solution for 2025
April 2025
Introduction
The MediaTek Helio P90, a mobile processor released in the late 2020s, remains relevant in the budget segment even in 2025. Despite utilizing an outdated 12nm manufacturing process, it is used in smartphones priced under $200, offering a balance between cost and basic performance. In this article, we will explore who the Helio P90 is suitable for, what tasks it can handle, and what to pay attention to when choosing a device built on this platform.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process
CPU: 8-Core Structure
The Helio P90 is built on a hybrid architecture featuring two clusters:
- 4 Cortex-A75 cores with a clock speed of up to 2.2 GHz for resource-intensive tasks.
- 4 Cortex-A55 cores with a clock speed of 2.0 GHz for background processes.
This big.LITTLE approach allows for battery savings but falls short compared to modern solutions with Cortex-A78/A55 cores or new ARMv9 architectures. The 1MB L2 cache ensures minimal latency in data processing; however, it is insufficient for complex multi-threaded tasks.
GPU: PowerVR GM9446
The PowerVR GM9446 graphics accelerator supports Vulkan 1.1 and OpenGL ES 3.2 APIs but is not designed for modern games with ray tracing or high graphic settings. Its performance is comparable to the Mali-G52 MC2, allowing for mobile projects to run at medium settings at 30 FPS (e.g., Genshin Impact on low-medium).
12nm Manufacturing Process: Pros and Cons
The 12nm technology, relevant from 2018 to 2020, looks archaic in 2025. Compared to 7nm or 5nm chips (such as the Snapdragon 4 Gen 3), the Helio P90 is less energy-efficient and generates more heat under load. However, this reduces production costs, making devices based on it more affordable.
Performance in Real-World Tasks
Gaming
- Casual Games (Angry Birds, Candy Crush) — runs smoothly without issues.
- Mid-core Games (PUBG Mobile, Mobile Legends) — medium settings, 30–40 FPS.
- Heavy AAA Titles (Honkai: Star Rail) — low settings, with potential drops to 20–25 FPS.
Multimedia
- Supports 4K@30fps video encoding and decoding.
- HDR10 content displays correctly but lacks hardware acceleration for Dolby Vision.
- Dynamic resolution scaling in streaming services (Netflix, YouTube) to save battery.
AI Applications
- APU 2.0 (AI Processing Unit) with performance up to 1.1 TOPS.
- Accelerates facial recognition, scene detection in the camera, and basic AR effects.
- Compatible with lightweight neural network models (e.g., photo stylization in apps like Prisma).
Power Consumption and Heating
With a TDP of 5W, the chip is energy-efficient in idle mode, but under load (gaming, video recording), consumption rises to 7–8W. In smartphones without cooling systems, throttling may occur after 15–20 minutes of active use. Devices with passive cooling solutions or graphite thermal pads are recommended.
Built-in Modules
Connectivity
- 4G LTE Cat.12 modem with speeds up to 600 Mbps (no 5G support).
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0 — standards from 2019 but sufficient for connecting wireless headphones and home networks.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo — positioning accuracy within 3–5 meters.
Sensors and Interfaces
- Supports cameras up to 48 MP (or dual 24 MP).
- USB-C 2.0, microSD up to 512 GB, screens with resolutions up to FullHD+ (1080×2520).
Comparison with Competitors
MediaTek Helio P90 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 (2024)
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 3: 6nm process, Adreno 613 GPU, AnTuTu score — 520K. Advantage in energy efficiency (+20%) and 5G support.
- Helio P90: Cheaper by $30–50 but falls behind in multitasking.
MediaTek Helio P90 vs Unisoc Tiger T616 (2023)
- Tiger T616: 12nm, Mali-G57 MP1, AnTuTu score — 380K. The Helio P90 excels in AI performance and camera stability.
Within brand: Helio P90 lags behind the MediaTek Dimensity 700 (7nm, 5G, AnTuTu 450K) but remains a choice for ultra-budget models.
Use Cases
1. Everyday Tasks
- Social media, messaging, web browsing — smooth operation.
- Multitasking (2–3 apps in the background) — possible brief stutters.
2. Gaming
- Recommended for casual gamers. For lengthy gaming sessions, better to choose devices with active cooling.
3. Photography and Video
- Daytime shooting: good detail with Sony IMX582 or Samsung GM1 sensors.
- Night mode: requires software processing (up to 3 seconds per frame).
- 4K video: electronic stabilization, potential "jelly" effect during movement.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
- Low device cost ($120–200).
- Optimized power consumption in standby mode.
- Adequate performance for basic tasks.
❌ Cons
- No 5G and Wi-Fi 6.
- Heating under load.
- Weak GPU for modern games.
Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
1. Cooling: Look for models with terms like “graphite thermal spreader” or “heat pipe.”
2. RAM: Minimum of 4GB (better 6GB for Android 14+).
3. Display: IPS or AMOLED with a refresh rate of 60–90Hz (Helio P90 does not support 120Hz).
4. Brands: Oukitel, Tecno, Infinix — often use Helio P90 in 2025.
Model Examples:
- Tecno Spark 10 Pro ($150): 6.8" IPS, 8/128 GB, 50 MP camera.
- Oukitel C33 ($130): 5000 mAh, Android 14 Go Edition.
Final Conclusion: Who is Helio P90 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Seek a smartphone under $200 for calls, social networks, and occasional gaming.
- Value long battery life (thanks to the 12nm chip and high-capacity batteries in devices).
- Do not plan to use 5G or resource-intensive applications.
Key Benefits: budget savings, adequate performance for basic needs, compatibility with modern OS (Android 14/15 Lite). However, for future upgrades or professional tasks, it is better to consider smartphones with Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 700.