Unisoc Tiger T618
Unisoc Tiger T618: Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks
April 2025
Introduction
In the world of mobile technology, the balance between performance and cost remains a key factor for many users. The Unisoc Tiger T618, introduced a few years ago, remains a popular choice for budget smartphones and tablets. Despite its outdated manufacturing process and lack of 5G support, this processor continues to compete thanks to its low price and adequate power for basic tasks. In this article, we will discuss who the Tiger T618 is suitable for in 2025 and what possibilities it offers.
Architecture and Manufacturing Process: The Foundation of Stability
CPU Structure:
The Tiger T618 is built on a hybrid architecture with 8 cores divided into two clusters:
- 2 ARM Cortex-A75 cores with a frequency of up to 2 GHz for resource-intensive tasks.
- 6 ARM Cortex-A55 cores with a frequency of up to 1.8 GHz for background processes.
This configuration provides a balance between performance and energy efficiency, but it lags behind modern processors with Cortex-A78/A710 cores.
Mali-G52 MP2 GPU:
The Mali-G52 MP2 graphics accelerator with two computing units handles games at low and medium settings. It supports resolutions up to Full HD+ (1080x2520 pixels) and refresh rates up to 90 Hz, but in 2025, this is insufficient for top-tier projects like Genshin Impact.
12nm Manufacturing Process:
The use of a 12nm process (compared to 6-7nm processes of competitors) increases energy consumption and heat generation. However, for devices with passive cooling and large batteries, this does not become a critical issue.
Real-World Performance
Gaming:
- Casual Gaming: The Tiger T618 easily runs Candy Crush, Among Us, and other light games.
- Mid-range Projects: In PUBG Mobile or Call of Duty: Mobile, it can achieve stable 30 fps at medium settings.
- Throttling: During prolonged sessions (over 30 minutes), the processor may reduce its frequency due to heat.
Multimedia:
- Supports video decoding of 4K@30fps and H.265.
- Video recording is limited to 1080p@60fps or 4K@30fps (depending on camera optimization).
AI Applications:
The lack of a dedicated NPU (neural processing unit) makes the Tiger T618 weak for complex tasks:
- Object recognition in photos works with delays.
- Voice assistants (Google Assistant, Siri) operate reliably but lack offline mode.
Power Consumption:
With a TDP of 10 W and a 5000 mAh battery, smartphones powered by the Tiger T618 can last 6-8 hours of active use. In standby mode, they can last up to 2 days.
Built-in Modules: Connectivity and Navigation
- 4G LTE Cat-7 Modem: Download speeds of up to 300 Mbps, upload speeds of 100 Mbps. 5G is not supported.
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac): Up to 433 Mbps on a single stream.
- Bluetooth 5.0: Connecting headphones, smartwatches, and other peripherals.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, Galileo. Positioning accuracy is up to 3 meters.
The Tiger T618 is suitable for rural areas or travel, but users in metropolitan areas with 5G networks will be left without high speeds.
Comparison with Competitors
Unisoc Tiger T618 vs MediaTek Helio G88 (12nm):
- The Helio G88 offers a more powerful GPU (Mali-G52 MC2) and is better optimized for gaming.
- In the AnTuTu 10 test, the Helio G88 scores approximately 300,000 points compared to 278,000 for the Tiger T618.
Unisoc Tiger T618 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 (6nm):
- The Snapdragon 680 excels in energy efficiency and supports cameras up to 64 MP.
- Devices powered by the Snapdragon 680 have a higher price range ($180-$250 compared to $120-$200 for Tiger T618).
Unisoc Tiger T618 vs Samsung Exynos 850 (8nm):
- The Exynos 850 is weaker in multithreaded tasks (Geekbench 6 Multi Core: 1100 vs 1465).
Conclusion: The Tiger T618 occupies a niche between ultra-budget and mid-budget chips, offering minimal sufficiency.
Usage Scenarios
1. Everyday Tasks:
- Social media, messaging, web surfing.
- Watching YouTube and streaming services.
2. Gaming:
- Games with low requirements or cloud gaming (Xbox Cloud, GeForce NOW).
3. Photo and Video:
- Taking pictures during the day with cameras up to 48 MP.
- Night photos require noise reduction software (for example, Google Camera ports).
Pros and Cons of the Processor
Advantages:
- Low cost of devices ($120-$200).
- Adequate performance for basic tasks.
- Supports 4G and modern communication standards.
Disadvantages:
- Outdated 12nm manufacturing process.
- No 5G or Wi-Fi 6 support.
- Limited graphics for modern games.
Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
1. Cooling: Look for models with graphite or copper heatsinks.
2. RAM: At least 4 GB (better to have 6 GB for multitasking).
3. Battery: At least 5000 mAh to compensate for energy consumption.
4. Updates: Devices with Android 14/15 and a promise of 2 years of support.
Example Models for 2025:
- Realme C55 (2025): 6/128 GB, 90 Hz display, $160.
- Infinix Note 12 Lite: 4/64 GB, 5000 mAh, $130.
- Tecno Spark 10 Pro: 8/256 GB, 48 MP camera, $190.
Final Conclusion: Who is the Tiger T618 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Are looking for an inexpensive smartphone for calls, social media, and light gaming.
- Are not ready to pay extra for 5G or a high-end camera.
- Value battery life and reliability.
Key Benefits:
- Price under $200.
- Support for all basic smartphone functions.
- Compatibility with most applications in 2025.
The Unisoc Tiger T618 remains relevant in an era where even budget devices strive for innovation. It reminds users that not everyone needs high-end chips—sometimes a simple, proven solution is enough.