MediaTek Helio G36
MediaTek Helio G36: A Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks and Light Gaming
Analysis of the chip's capabilities and use cases in 2025
Introduction
The MediaTek Helio G36 is a mobile system on a chip (SoC) that continues to be popular in the budget segment of smartphones even in 2025. Despite lacking 5G support and showing modest performance in synthetic benchmarks, this processor finds its audience thanks to its energy efficiency and the affordable prices of devices built on it. In this article, we will explore who the Helio G36 is suitable for, how it handles modern tasks, and what to consider when choosing a smartphone with this chip.
1. Architecture and Manufacturing Process: 8 Cores, 12 nm and a Balance Between Power and Efficiency
The Helio G36 is built on a 12-nanometer manufacturing process, which, while inferior to modern 6 nm and 4 nm solutions, provides low power consumption (TDP 2.2 W). The CPU architecture includes 8 Cortex-A55 cores divided into two clusters:
- 4 high-performance cores with a frequency of up to 2.2 GHz for resource-intensive tasks;
- 4 energy-efficient cores with a frequency of 1.8 GHz for background processes.
The graphics processing is handled by the PowerVR GE8320 — a GPU with a frequency of 680 MHz. This chip is not designed for heavy gaming but can manage casual projects like Mobile Legends or Among Us.
Key Features:
- Support for displays with a resolution of up to HD+ (1600x720) and a refresh rate of 90 Hz;
- Maximum RAM capacity of 8 GB LPDDR4X;
- eMMC 5.1 storage (but not UFS).
2. Performance in Real Tasks: From Social Media to Light Gaming
Synthetic Tests:
- Geekbench 6: 229 (Single-Core), 848 (Multi-Core);
- AnTuTu 10: ~157,549 points.
Gaming:
- Genshin Impact on low settings — 20-25 FPS with drops during battles;
- PUBG Mobile (HD + 30 FPS) — stable 28-30 frames;
- Roblox and Brawl Stars — 60 FPS without lag.
Multimedia:
- Video playback in 1080p/60 FPS without issues;
- Running streams on Twitch or YouTube with minimal delays;
- Limitations when editing video: rendering a 1080p clip will take 2-3 times longer than on flagship devices.
Artificial Intelligence:
- Basic AI features in the camera (e.g., shooting scenarios or background blur);
- No support for complex neural network models (e.g., stable diffusion on-device).
Power Consumption:
- Active screen (gaming, video) — 8-10% battery per hour (with a capacity of 5000 mAh);
- Standby mode — 1-2% overnight.
Heat Dissipation:
Even under prolonged load, the temperature rarely exceeds 40°C, preventing throttling. This is achieved due to the modest power of the GPU and the 12-nm manufacturing process.
3. Built-in Modules: 4G, Wi-Fi 5, and Standard Kit
The Helio G36 is aimed at markets where 5G is still not dominant:
- 4G LTE Cat-7 modem with speeds of up to 300 Mbps for downloads;
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) and Bluetooth 5.0;
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou.
What’s Missing:
- Support for Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3;
- No satellite communication for emergency calls (unlike the iPhone 14+).
4. Comparison with Competitors: Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, Unisoc T606
MediaTek Helio G36 vs Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 1:
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 (AnTuTu ~220k) is stronger in gaming, thanks to the Adreno 619 GPU;
- However, the Helio G36 is cheaper: smartphones with it start at $120, while models with Snapdragon 4 start at $150.
Unisoc T606:
- Similar CPU performance (Geekbench 6: 210/800), but weaker GPU;
- Devices on T606 are often more affordable ($100-130), but less optimized.
Conclusion: The Helio G36 occupies a niche between the Unisoc T606 and the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1, offering an optimal balance of price and capabilities.
5. Use Cases: Who Is It Suitable For?
Gaming:
- Only light and medium-demanding games. For Call of Duty: Mobile or Fortnite, settings will need to be reduced to a minimum.
Everyday Tasks:
- Social media, messengers, web surfing — everything runs smoothly;
- Multitasking is limited: an app in the background may reload if more than 3-4 programs are open.
Photo and Video:
- Maximum camera support: up to 50 MP for a single sensor or 16+16 MP for dual cameras;
- Video recording — 1080p/30 FPS. Electronic image stabilization (EIS) is available, but the quality is average.
Ideal Audience:
- Users who need an inexpensive smartphone for basic tasks;
- Backup devices or gadgets for elderly people/schoolchildren.
6. Pros and Cons of Helio G36
Strengths:
- Low smartphone prices (from $120);
- Energy efficiency — up to 2 days of use with moderate usage;
- Stable performance without overheating.
Weaknesses:
- No 5G;
- Weak GPU for modern games;
- Limited camera support (no 4K video).
7. Tips for Choosing a Smartphone with Helio G36
What to Look For:
1. Display: An IPS display with a 90 Hz refresh rate will improve interface smoothness.
2. Battery: At least 5000 mAh for comfortable battery life.
3. Memory: 4/64 GB is the minimum requirement in 2025.
4. Cameras: Look for models with a main camera of 50 MP (e.g., Realme C55 or Infinix Smart 8).
Typical Devices:
- Budget smartphones: Tecno Spark 10, Nokia G22;
- Children's gadgets or "work" phones for couriers.
8. Final Conclusion
The MediaTek Helio G36 is a choice for those looking to save without sacrificing basic functionality. It is suitable for:
- For whom: Users who don't need top-tier gaming or 4K video recording.
- Main benefits: Low price, long battery life, stability.
- Alternatives: If you're willing to spend an additional $30-50, consider the Snapdragon 4 Gen 1 or Dimensity 700.
In a world where even budget devices are becoming "smarter," the Helio G36 remains a reliable option for those who value simplicity and reliability.
