MediaTek Helio P95
MediaTek Helio P95: Review and Performance Analysis in 2025
April 2025
Introduction
In the world of mobile technology, the choice of processor determines how comfortable the smartphone experience will be. The MediaTek Helio P95, launched a few years ago, is still found in budget and mid-range devices. In this article, we will explore what this chipset is capable of in 2025, who it is suitable for, and what compromises need to be considered.
1. Architecture and Manufacturing Process: Foundations of Performance
The Helio P95 is built on a 12nm manufacturing process, which seems outdated today compared to 6nm and 5nm chips. However, this helps keep production costs low, which is critical for budget devices.
CPU:
- 8-core big.LITTLE configuration:
- 2 high-performance Cortex-A75 cores clocked up to 2.2 GHz for resource-intensive tasks.
- 6 energy-efficient Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz for background processes.
- L2 Cache: 1 MB (shared among the A75 cluster).
GPU:
- PowerVR GM9446 – graphics supporting OpenGL ES 3.2 and Vulkan 1.1.
- Expected frequency: ~800 MHz.
Features:
- No dedicated neural processing unit (NPU), but AI tasks are handled through the CPU and GPU.
- Support for displays up to FHD+ (1080×2520) with a refresh rate of 90 Hz.
2. Real-World Performance
Gaming:
- Casual Games (Candy Crush, Among Us): Ideal smoothness without lag.
- Medium Load (PUBG Mobile, COD Mobile): Up to 30-40 FPS on low settings.
- Heavy Titles (Genshin Impact): Frame rates drop to 20-25 FPS even on the lowest settings.
Multimedia:
- Video encoding/decoding: H.265 (HEVC), H.264, VP9 at 4K@30 FPS.
- Streaming content: Netflix, YouTube in FHD without delays.
AI Applications:
- Photography: Autofocus with face recognition, basic real-time filters.
- Voice Assistants: Stable operation of Google Assistant, Siri.
Power Consumption and Heat:
- TDP of 5W ensures moderate heating.
- In smartphones with passive cooling, throttling may occur after 15-20 minutes of gaming.
- Battery life: Up to 8-10 hours of screen time (with a 5000mAh battery).
3. Integrated Modules: Communication and Navigation
Modem:
- 4G LTE Cat-12 with speeds up to 600 Mbps (download) and 150 Mbps (upload).
- 5G is absent – this is a major drawback for the 2025 market.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth:
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with support for dual-band connectivity (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz).
- Bluetooth 5.2 with improved energy efficiency and sound quality (A2DP, aptX HD).
Navigation:
- GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou – quick location determination even in densely built areas.
4. Comparison with Competitors
MediaTek Helio P95 vs. Qualcomm Snapdragon 680:
- AnTuTu 10: 295,033 (P95) vs. 280,000 (SD 680).
- Graphics: PowerVR GM9446 is weaker than Adreno 610 in Snapdragon.
- Energy Efficiency: Both chips are 12nm, but SD 680 is better optimized for Android 14+.
MediaTek Helio P95 vs. MediaTek Dimensity 700:
- 5G: Dimensity 700 supports fifth-generation networks.
- Manufacturing Process: 7nm for Dimensity vs. 12nm for P95.
Conclusion: The P95 is suitable for those for whom 5G is not critical but who value a balance of price and basic performance.
5. Usage Scenarios: Who is P95 For?
Gaming:
- Recommended for casual gamers. The power is insufficient for streaming or esports.
Daily Tasks:
- Social media, messengers, web surfing – seamless experience.
- Multi-window mode: Simultaneous operation of 3-4 applications (e.g., YouTube + browser + Telegram).
Photography and Videography:
- Cameras up to 64 MP (with zoom sensors) or dual modules 16+8 MP.
- Video: 4K@30 FPS with EIS (electronic image stabilization).
- Night mode: Average quality due to AI processing limitations.
6. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low device cost (smartphones from $150).
- Good energy efficiency for basic tasks.
- Support for modern codecs and FHD+ displays.
Cons:
- Outdated 12nm manufacturing process.
- Weak GPU for demanding games.
- Lack of 5G support.
7. Practical Tips When Choosing a Device
What to Pay Attention To:
1. Cooling: Prefer a smartphone with copper pipes or graphite coating.
2. RAM: Minimum of 6GB of RAM for comfortable use in 2025.
3. Display: IPS or AMOLED with a 90 Hz refresh rate (e.g., Realme 10).
4. Battery: At least 5000mAh to offset the energy losses of the manufacturing process.
Typical Devices:
- Realme 10: $180, 8/128GB, AMOLED 90 Hz.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 12E: $160, 6/64GB, IPS LCD.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is Helio P95 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Are looking for an affordable smartphone (up to $250) for basic tasks.
- Do not plan to play heavy games or use 5G.
- Appreciate long battery life.
Key Benefits:
- Affordable price.
- Reliable performance in everyday scenarios.
- Compatibility with modern applications and operating systems.
Conclusion
The MediaTek Helio P95 remains relevant in the budget segment in 2025, despite its technical shortcomings. It is suitable for users not chasing innovations but looking for stability and savings. However, if you dream of a future with 5G and VR gaming, it’s worth considering more modern chipsets.