Samsung Exynos 7904
Samsung Exynos 7904: Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks in 2025
Overview of capabilities, comparison with competitors, and smartphone selection recommendations
Introduction
In the world of mobile technology in 2025, processors supporting 5G, neural accelerators, and 4nm process technology dominate the market. However, even now, chips from previous years, such as the Samsung Exynos 7904, remain relevant in the budget segment. Developed in 2019, it is still found in affordable smartphones priced between $150 and $250. In this article, we will discuss who this processor is suitable for, how it performs with modern tasks, and what to look for when purchasing a device.
1. Architecture and Process Technology: Foundation of Efficiency
The Exynos 7904 is built on a 14nm process technology, which is considered outdated in 2025 (modern chips use 5-7nm). However, this allows for low manufacturing costs and moderate power consumption.
CPU:
- 8-core Big.LITTLE architecture:
- 2 Cortex-A73 cores at 1.8 GHz for resource-demanding tasks.
- 6 Cortex-A53 cores at 1.6 GHz for background processes.
- This configuration balances performance and battery life.
GPU:
- Mali-G71 MP2 running at 770 MHz.
- Supports resolutions up to Full HD+ (2400×1080), but is not designed for heavy graphics.
Features:
- The absence of a neural processing unit (NPU) limits the capabilities of AI applications.
- Support for LPDDR4X RAM and eMMC 5.1 (less frequently — UFS 2.1).
2. Real-world Performance
Gaming:
- The Mali-G71 MP2 handles light games on low settings: Among Us, Candy Crush, Subway Surfers.
- In PUBG Mobile and Genshin Impact, lags may occur even on minimum graphics settings.
- Power dissipation (TDP 5W) is managed with passive cooling, but prolonged workloads may lead to throttling.
Multimedia:
- Video playback at 1080p/60fps and 4K/30fps (without AV1 decoding).
- Supports displays with refresh rates up to 60 Hz.
Power Consumption:
- Batteries in the 4000-5000 mAh range provide 1-1.5 days of use with moderate activity.
- Fast charging is limited to 15W (depends on the smartphone model).
AI Applications:
- The lack of an NPU shifts AI tasks to the CPU, slowing down photo processing (e.g., Night Mode scene) and voice assistant operations.
3. Built-in Modules: Connectivity and Navigation
- Modem: Cat.12 LTE (up to 600 Mbps download), with no 5G support.
- Wi-Fi: 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5), but lacks Wi-Fi 6E.
- Bluetooth: 5.0 with A2DP and LE support.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo.
Limitations:
- Inability to connect to 5G networks.
- Latency in online gaming due to the basic Wi-Fi module.
4. Comparison with Competitors
In its generation (2019-2020):
- Snapdragon 665: Better GPU optimization (Adreno 610) and support for cameras up to 48 MP.
- MediaTek Helio P65: Higher performance in AnTuTu (~190k), but similar power consumption.
In 2025:
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 3: 5G support, improved GPU Adreno 613, 6nm process technology.
- Unisoc T606: Cheaper but worse optimization for Android 14+.
Conclusion: The Exynos 7904 lags behind modern counterparts in speed but wins in price.
5. Usage Scenarios
Everyday Tasks:
- Social media, messengers, streaming video.
- Multitasking with 3-4 apps in the background (with 4GB of RAM).
Gaming:
- Only casual games. AAA titles will require an external cooling case.
Photo and Video:
- Supports cameras up to 32 MP and 1080p/30fps recording.
- No HDR or advanced stabilization.
6. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low cost of devices.
- Good battery life.
- Support for modern communication standards (excluding 5G).
Cons:
- Weak GPU.
- Outdated process technology.
- Absence of NPU.
7. Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
- RAM: Minimum of 4 GB for Android 14+.
- Storage: Preferably UFS 2.1, though eMMC 5.1 is more common.
- Display: IPS or AMOLED with a refresh rate of 60 Hz.
- Battery: At least 5000 mAh to compensate for power consumption.
Popular models in 2025:
- Samsung Galaxy A05s ($170): 6.5" HD+, 4/64 GB.
- realme C55 (Global Edition, $150): 50 MP camera, 5000 mAh.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is the Exynos 7904 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
1. Are looking for a device under $200.
2. Do not play heavy games.
3. Value battery life over speed.
Main Benefits:
- Affordable price.
- Reliability of a tested platform.
- Compatibility with basic functions of Android 14+.
Summary: The Exynos 7904 in 2025 is a compromise for the budget segment. It falls short against modern chips but remains a viable option for entry-level smartphones.
If you want a smartphone "for the day" without frills, the Exynos 7904 will manage. However, for a future-proof solution, it is better to consider models with 5G and 6nm processors.