Unisoc Tiger T700
Unisoc Tiger T700: Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks and More
April 2025
Introduction
Mobile processors are the heart of modern smartphones, defining their speed, energy efficiency, and capabilities. The Unisoc Tiger T700, released in 2021, remains popular in the budget segment. Despite its age, it continues to be used in devices priced at $150–250, offering a balance between price and performance. In this article, we will explore what makes the Tiger T700 noteworthy, where it falls short compared to competitors, and who it is suitable for in 2025.
1. Architecture and Technology: The Basis of Performance
CPU: 8 Cores and up to 1.8 GHz Clock Speed
The Tiger T700 is built on a classic architecture for budget chips using ARM. It employs an 8-core cluster configuration:
- 2 Cortex-A75 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz for resource-intensive tasks (gaming, rendering).
- 6 Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 1.6 GHz for background processes (social media, music).
This configuration (big.LITTLE) ensures a balance between performance and energy savings. However, the 12nm technology process (compared to the 6–7nm of contemporary counterparts) increases heating and reduces efficiency.
GPU: Mali-G52 MP2
The Mali-G52 MP2 graphics accelerator is the weak link of the processor. It supports a resolution of up to Full HD+ (1080×2520) at a refresh rate of 60 Hz but has only 2 compute units (cores), limiting its gaming and graphics processing capabilities.
2. Performance in Real Tasks
Gaming: Average Performance
The Tiger T700 handles less demanding games like Among Us and Candy Crush at maximum settings. However, in projects like Genshin Impact or Call of Duty: Mobile, frame rates drop to 25–30 FPS even on low settings. Overheating after 20–30 minutes of gaming is another issue due to the 12nm technology process.
Multimedia: Smooth Playback but Lacks Sophistication
The chip supports video decoding in H.265/HEVC and H.264 formats at resolutions up to 2K. However, video recording is limited to 1080p@60fps, as it lacks the power for 4K. Streaming on social media works stably, but shooting in low-light conditions may result in noise.
Artificial Intelligence: Basic Capabilities
There is no built-in neural processing unit (NPU). AI tasks (such as scene recognition in the camera) are handled by the CPU and GPU, increasing system load. For machine learning applications (like advanced photo filters), the Tiger T700 is not very suitable.
Power Consumption and Heat Management
With a TDP of 10 Watts, the processor is not the most energy-efficient. In smartphones with a 5000 mAh battery, it provides 6–8 hours of screen time. However, under heavy use (gaming, navigation), the device can heat up to 42–45°C. It is recommended to choose models with passive cooling (copper pipes or graphite films).
3. Built-In Modules: Connectivity and Communication
Modem: Only 4G
In 2025, the lack of 5G support is a significant drawback. The built-in modem operates with LTE Cat.7 networks, providing speeds of up to 300 Mbps for downloads. This is sufficient for basic tasks (video calls, streaming HD video), but the protocol is outdated for the future.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with dual-band support (2.4 GHz + 5 GHz).
- Bluetooth 5.0 with Dual Audio feature (connecting two devices simultaneously).
Satellite Systems
The chip supports GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, and BeiDou. Navigation accuracy in urban areas is ±5 meters, which is sufficient for maps and taxi services.
4. Comparison with Competitors
Unisoc Tiger T700 vs MediaTek Helio G85
- Helio G85 (12 nm, 2020) has an edge in graphics (Mali-G52 MC2 vs. MP2) and supports 90Hz displays.
- AnTuTu 10: Helio G85 scores around 260,000 points compared to 240,000 for the T700.
Unisoc Tiger T700 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 680
- Snapdragon 680 (6 nm, 2021) is more energy-efficient and supports 4K video and Wi-Fi 6.
- Price: Smartphones with Snapdragon 680 are more expensive ($200–300 compared to $150–250).
Conclusion: The Tiger T700 is an option for the most affordable devices but falls short even compared to older competitors in AI and multimedia.
5. Use Cases
Gaming
Suitable for casual games and retro console emulators (PSP, Nintendo DS). For PUBG or Fortnite, reducing graphics settings is necessary.
Everyday Tasks
Social media, messaging, web surfing, and music streaming—everything is handled smoothly by the Tiger T700. Multitasking (5–7 apps in the background) is possible thanks to the 8 cores.
Photo and Video Recording
The maximum camera resolution is 64 MP. Recording at 1080p@60fps is stable, but electronic stabilization (EIS) is average. Night shots require the use of a tripod or manual mode.
6. Pros and Cons
Advantages:
- Low cost of devices.
- Support for modern communication standards (excluding 5G).
- Sufficient performance for basic tasks.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of 5G and NPU.
- Weak GPU for gaming.
- Heating under load.
7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
- RAM and Storage: Opt for models with 4–6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage—this will prolong the device’s lifespan.
- Cooling: Look for gadgets that mention "liquid cooling" or "graphite layers."
- Display: Full HD+ with an IPS matrix is the optimal choice.
- Device Types: The Tiger T700 is often found in smartphones from brands like Infinix, Tecno, Nokia, and budget lines from Samsung.
8. Final Conclusion: Who Is the Tiger T700 Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Do not want to overpay for features they won’t use.
- Use their smartphone for calls, social media, and occasional gaming.
- Value battery life—with moderate use, the device can last a day.
Key Benefits: Saving $50–100 compared to models with Snapdragon or MediaTek, adequate performance for basic scenarios. However, if you plan to use the smartphone for 3–4 years, it is better to consider chips with 5G support and a more advanced technology process.
Conclusion
The Unisoc Tiger T700 is an example of a well-made budget solution that remains relevant even four years after its release. It is suitable for students, retirees, or as a second phone for work. But remember: technology does not stand still, and in 2025, there are more advanced options available even among budget devices. Choose wisely!