Samsung Exynos 2100
Samsung Exynos 2100: Power and Efficiency in the World of Mobile Technologies
April 2025
Introduction
Four years after its release, the Samsung Exynos 2100 processor continues to be a popular choice for mid-range and premium smartphones. Despite the emergence of new chips, its blend of performance, energy efficiency, and support for modern technologies keeps it relevant in 2025. In this article, we will explore what sets the Exynos 2100 apart from its competitors, who it is best suited for, and how it performs in real-world scenarios.
Architecture and Technology Process: The Foundation of Power
The Exynos 2100 is the first Samsung processor built on a 5-nanometer technology process. This has allowed energy consumption to be reduced by 20% compared to its predecessor (Exynos 990, 7 nm) while increasing performance.
- CPU: Hybrid Architecture
The chip features an 8-core structure:
- 1 powerful Cortex-X1 core running at 2.9 GHz;
- 3 Cortex-A78 cores (2.8 GHz) for a balance between performance and efficiency;
- 4 energy-efficient Cortex-A55 cores (2.2 GHz) for background tasks.
This configuration ensures smooth multitasking and conserves battery life.
- GPU: Graphics for Gaming and Creativity
The Mali-G78 MP14, featuring 14 compute units, supports real-time ray tracing and resolutions up to 8K. While it's no longer top-of-the-line in 2025, it provides sufficient power for mobile games like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty: Mobile at medium settings.
Performance in Real-World Scenarios
The Exynos 2100 demonstrates balanced operation across various tasks:
1. Gaming
- In 2025, the chip handles most games at medium settings (60 FPS). For instance, PUBG Mobile runs at "Ultra" settings with smooth visuals, although in resource-intensive scenes, frame drops to 45 FPS can occur.
- The thermal control system (TDP 8W) prevents overheating, but in budget smartphones without liquid cooling, throttling may be noticeable after 30 minutes of gameplay.
2. Multimedia
- Support for 8K/60fps video and HDR10+ decoding makes the chip ideal for streaming and editing.
- The audio processor enhances sound quality in headphones with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC).
3. AI Applications
- The integrated NPU (Neural Processing Unit) speeds up photo processing (e.g., automatic retouching in Lightroom), voice assistant functionalities, and AR applications.
4. Energy Consumption
- Smartphones with the Exynos 2100 and a 4500 mAh battery can last up to 7 hours of active use (gaming, navigation). In everyday tasks (social media, calls), they can last up to 1.5 days.
Integrated Modules: The Connectivity of the Future
The Exynos 2100 is not just a CPU and GPU, but a comprehensive suite of communication solutions:
- 5G Modem
The integrated Exynos Modem 5123 supports Sub-6 GHz and mmWave networks (speeds up to 7.35 Gbps). In 2025, this allows for comfortable 5G usage even in areas with partial coverage.
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2
Wireless technologies provide stable connections with Wi-Fi 6 routers (up to 9.6 Gbps) and compatibility with Bluetooth devices (e.g., Galaxy Watch 6 smartwatches).
- Navigation
Support for GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou ensures accurate positioning even in mountainous areas or urban centers with tall buildings.
Comparison with Competitors
In 2025, the Exynos 2100 competes with processors from 2021–2022 still used in budget flagships:
- Snapdragon 888 (Qualcomm)
- Pros: Better optimization for gaming, higher GPU stability.
- Cons: Higher heating (TDP 10W) and power consumption.
- Apple A14 Bionic
- Pros: Leader in single-thread performance (Geekbench 6 Single-Core ~1600).
- Cons: Lack of mmWave 5G support in base models of iPhone 12.
The Exynos 2100 gains an advantage through balance: its AnTuTu 10 score (~579k) is close to Snapdragon 888 (~600k), but it has lower thermal output.
Use Cases: Who is Exynos 2100 For?
1. Gaming
Ideal for casual gaming or cloud streaming (e.g., Xbox Cloud). Hardcore gamers would be better off with devices featuring active cooling.
2. Daily Tasks
Instant app launches, smooth interface, and support for multitasking (running 5-7 apps simultaneously).
3. Photography and Videography
The chip supports cameras up to 200 MP and 8K recording. In 2025, smartphones with Exynos 2100 (like the Galaxy S21 FE 2025) offer advanced shooting modes: night portrait, 4K video stabilization.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 5nm energy efficiency;
- Support for 5G and Wi-Fi 6;
- Good performance in gaming and multimedia.
Cons:
- Outdated GPU architecture compared to Mali-G710 (2023);
- Limited optimization for new games in 2025.
Practical Tips for Choosing a Device
1. Cooling
Look for models with vapor chambers or graphite thermal pads (e.g., Galaxy S21 Ultra).
2. RAM
Optimal is 8 GB LPDDR5. For gaming, consider 12 GB.
3. Price Range
In 2025, smartphones with Exynos 2100 range from $400–600. For example:
- Samsung Galaxy S21 FE 2025 – $499;
- Xiaomi Mi 12 Lite 5G – $449.
Final Conclusion: Who is Exynos 2100 For?
This processor is an excellent choice for those seeking:
- Balance between price and performance;
- Long battery life thanks to the 5nm process;
- Support for 5G and modern communication standards.
The Exynos 2100 is suitable for users who do not need top-tier gaming but value stability in operation, a quality camera, and readiness for future network updates. In 2025, it remains a reliable option for mid-range smartphones, combining proven technology with affordability.