MediaTek Helio G35
MediaTek Helio G35: Budget Processor for Undemanding Tasks
Analysis of Capabilities and Use Cases in 2025
Introduction
MediaTek Helio G35 is one of the most affordable mobile processors on the market, which continues to remain relevant in budget smartphones even years after its release. Despite modest specifications, it finds its audience due to a balance of price, energy efficiency, and sufficient performance for basic tasks. This article will explore who this chipset is suitable for in 2025 and what compromises need to be made.
1. Architecture and Fabrication Process: What's Inside
Cores and Frequencies
The Helio G35 is built on an 8-core Cortex-A53 architecture split into two clusters:
- 4 cores clocked at 2.3 GHz for peak loads;
- 4 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz for background tasks.
This approach (big.LITTLE) helps save battery life, but all cores belong to the outdated Cortex-A53 line released back in 2012. This limits performance in resource-intensive applications.
Graphics
The graphics processor PowerVR GE8320 operates at a frequency of 680 MHz. It supports resolutions up to HD+ (1600×720) and display output at 60 Hz. However, the GPU architecture is also outdated—it is not optimized for modern gaming engines and complex visual effects.
Fabrication Process
The chipset is manufactured using a 12 nm process, which is considered outdated in 2025. In comparison, competitors in the same price segment (such as Unisoc T606) are already moving to 6 nm standards. A larger fabrication process means fewer transistors per mm² and increased power consumption under heavy load.
2. Performance in Real-World Tasks
Gaming
The Helio G35 can only handle light games at low settings:
- Mobile Legends, Subway Surfers — stable 30-40 FPS;
- Genshin Impact, Call of Duty: Mobile — lag even at minimal settings (15-20 FPS).
The PowerVR GE8320 GPU does not support the Vulkan API, which limits compatibility with some projects. For comfortable gaming, it’s better to choose devices with processors such as Helio G85 or Snapdragon 680.
Multimedia
The chipset supports decoding video in H.264/H.265 up to 1080p@30fps, but struggles with rendering 4K content. This is sufficient for streaming services (YouTube, Netflix), but high-resolution streams can cause overheating.
AI Applications
The Helio G35 lacks a dedicated neural processing unit (NPU), so tasks like facial recognition or photo optimization are performed by the CPU. This slows down applications with AI features (such as Google Lens) and limits camera capabilities.
Power Consumption and Heating
With a TDP of 2.2 W, the chipset can operate without active cooling, but during prolonged loads (gaming, video recording), throttling occurs. In AnTuTu tests, the processor temperature reaches 48-50°C after 15 minutes of intensive use.
3. Integrated Modules: Connectivity and Navigation
- Modem: 4G LTE Cat-7 with a maximum download speed of 300 Mbps. 5G support is absent, which becomes a significant downside in 2025.
- Wi-Fi: 802.11ac (Wi-Fi 5) limited to 2.4 GHz (no support for 5 GHz).
- Bluetooth: 5.0 with A2DP codec for wireless headphones.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou. Positioning accuracy is within 5 meters.
These parameters align with the budget segment, but the absence of 5G and Wi-Fi 6 makes the device less future-proof.
4. Comparison with Competitors
MediaTek Helio G35 vs Unisoc T606
- AnTuTu 10: 137,965 vs 158,200;
- GPU: PowerVR GE8320 vs Mali-G57 MP1 (30% more powerful);
- Fabrication Process: 12 nm vs 6 nm (Unisoc has better energy efficiency).
MediaTek Helio G35 vs Snapdragon 460
- Gaming: Adreno 610 in Snapdragon 460 shows 20% higher FPS;
- Camera Support: Snapdragon 460 works with sensors up to 48 MP compared to 25 MP in Helio G35.
Conclusion: Helio G35 lags behind modern budget chipsets in performance but wins in price, with smartphones based on it being cheaper by $20-30.
5. Use Cases
Gaming
Suitable only for casual games (chess, puzzles). For PUBG Mobile or Fortnite, it will be necessary to reduce the resolution to 480p, which negatively impacts the visual experience.
Everyday Tasks
- Social media, messengers — smooth operation;
- Multitasking — comfortable switching between 3-4 applications with 4 GB of RAM;
- Webinars — issues connecting to external monitors via HDMI (no DisplayPort support).
Photography and Videography
- Maximum video resolution — 1080p@30fps;
- Support for single camera up to 25 MP or dual 13 MP + 8 MP;
- No capability for HDR recording or RAW shooting.
6. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Low device pricing ($80-150);
- Energy efficiency in standby mode;
- Support for modern Android versions (up to Android 14).
Cons:
- Weak GPU for gaming;
- Absence of 5G and Wi-Fi 6;
- Limited capabilities for photography.
7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
1. RAM: At least 4 GB for lag-free performance.
2. Display: IPS with HD+ resolution — going higher is pointless due to GPU limitations.
3. Battery: At least 5000 mAh to compensate for high power consumption under load.
4. Cameras: Don’t chase models with a triple camera setup — the processor won’t utilize their potential.
Typical devices with Helio G35 in 2025:
- Realme C55 ($110): 4/64 GB, 50 MP camera;
- Xiaomi Redmi 12C ($90): 3/32 GB, 5000 mAh battery.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is Helio G35 Suitable For
This processor is designed for:
- Older users who need a simple phone for calls and WhatsApp;
- Students on a tight budget;
- Backup devices for travel.
Main benefits: cost savings, long battery life (up to 2 days on standby), and sufficient performance for basic tasks.
If you don’t play demanding games or create TikTok videos — Helio G35 is a reasonable choice. However, for future-proofing, it’s better to consider smartphones with 5G and newer chipsets (like Snapdragon 4 Gen 2).
Conclusion
MediaTek Helio G35 is an example of a processor that sacrifices power for affordability. In 2025, it may not impress, but it continues to occupy its niche thanks to its low price. It is a viable option for those who value functionality without frills.