MediaTek Helio G88
MediaTek Helio G88: The Balance of Price and Performance in the Budget Segment
(Relevant as of April 2025)
The MediaTek Helio G88 is a system-on-chip (SoC) that continues to remain popular in budget and mid-range smartphones. Despite the release of more modern solutions, this platform attracts users with its combination of affordability and sufficient performance for everyday tasks. In this article, we will explore who the Helio G88 is suitable for, its strengths and weaknesses, as well as how it compares to its competitors.
1. Architecture and Process Technology: The Basis of Performance
CPU: 8 Cores for Multitasking
The Helio G88 is built on a hybrid architecture with 8 cores divided into two clusters:
- 2 Cortex-A75 cores with a frequency of up to 2 GHz for resource-intensive tasks (gaming, video rendering);
- 6 Cortex-A55 cores with a frequency of up to 1.8 GHz for background processes and energy efficiency.
This configuration ensures smooth operation in applications and light gaming, but it may struggle under prolonged peak loads due to the 12-nanometer process technology. In comparison, modern competitors use 6-7 nm, which improves energy consumption and reduces heat generation.
GPU: Mali-G52 MP2 for Basic Gaming
The Mali-G52 MP2 GPU with two computing cores supports:
- Screen resolution up to Full HD+ (1080p);
- Refresh rates up to 90 Hz (depends on the manufacturer's implementation);
- APIs Vulkan 1.1 and OpenGL ES 3.2 for game optimization.
This GPU handles casual games (e.g., Candy Crush, Subway Surfers) and runs PUBG Mobile or Genshin Impact at medium settings with 30-40 FPS, but frame rates might drop during extended sessions.
2. Performance in Real Tasks
Gaming: Moderate Potential
- Geekbench 6: Single-Core — 427, Multi-Core — 1357.
- AnTuTu 10: ~276,000 points.
These results place the Helio G88 on par with the Snapdragon 680. In gaming, the device's optimization is crucial: smartphones with passive cooling (without copper pipes) may suffer from throttling. For example, in Call of Duty: Mobile at medium settings, the chip delivers stable 40 FPS, but after 20-30 minutes, the frame rate may drop by 10-15%.
Multimedia: Screen Handling and Encoding
- Support for cameras up to 64 MP and video recording at 1080p@60fps;
- Hardware decoding of H.265/HEVC;
- Output to external displays via USB-C (depends on the manufacturer).
The chip is suitable for streaming Netflix in Full HD, but it does not support HDR10+ or Dolby Vision.
Energy Consumption and Heating
Average TDP (Thermal Design Power) is 5 W, but due to the 12-nm process technology, the chip heats up more than competitors on 6 nm. In smartphones with a 5000 mAh battery, the battery life is:
- Up to 8-10 hours of web surfing;
- 6-7 hours of video playback;
- 4-5 hours of gaming.
3. Integrated Modules: Connectivity and Wireless Technologies
Modem and Networks
- 4G LTE Cat.7 with download speeds up to 300 Mbps and upload speeds of 150 Mbps;
- No 5G support — a key limitation in 2025 when 5G has become standard even in budget models.
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth
- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) with dual-band support (2.4/5 GHz);
- Bluetooth 5.2 with power-saving features.
Navigation
- GPS, GLONASS, Galileo — quick location detection, but no support for satellite communication (e.g., Beidou in China).
4. Comparison with Competitors
MediaTek Helio G88 vs Snapdragon 680
- Snapdragon 680 (6 nm): Better energy efficiency (+15% battery life), but weaker GPU (Adreno 610 vs. Mali-G52 MP2).
- Price: Smartphones with both chips range from $150-250.
MediaTek Helio G88 vs Unisoc T606
- Unisoc T606: Cheaper ($100-180), but significantly weaker in gaming (Mali-G57 MP1) and multitasking.
Evolution within MediaTek Lineup
- Helio G96 (2021): More powerful GPU (Mali-G57 MC2), but also 12 nm;
- Helio G99 (2022): 6 nm, improved performance by 20-25%.
5. Use Case Scenarios
Gaming
Suitable for casual gamers. Game examples include:
- Brawl Stars, Clash Royale — 60 FPS at maximum settings;
- Mobile Legends — medium settings, 50-55 FPS.
Everyday Tasks
- Simultaneous use of 5-7 applications (social media, messaging, YouTube);
- Launching light photo editors (VSCO, Lightroom Mobile).
Photo and Video
- Shooting with the main camera at 48-64 MP with EIS (electronic stabilization);
- Recording video at 1080p with noise reduction;
- No support for 4K@60fps or advanced night mode capabilities.
6. Pros and Cons
Advantages
- Affordable device prices ($150-250);
- Support for high refresh rate screens (90 Hz);
- Optimization for basic gaming.
Disadvantages
- Lack of 5G;
- Heating under load;
- Limited support for modern codecs (AV1, VP9).
7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone
What to Pay Attention To
1. Cooling System: It's better to choose models with graphite pads or copper pipes.
2. RAM: At least 4 GB, ideally 6 GB.
3. Screen: IPS or AMOLED with a 90 Hz refresh rate for smooth interface experience.
4. Battery: At least 5000 mAh to compensate for the 12-nm chip's energy consumption.
Typical Devices
- Realme C55: $170, 6 GB RAM, 128 GB storage, 90 Hz screen.
- Xiaomi Redmi 12: $190, 8 GB RAM, 256 GB storage, NFC.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is the Helio G88 Suitable For
This processor is a choice for those who:
- Are not willing to overpay for 5G;
- Use their smartphone for social media, calls, and light gaming;
- Value battery life (assuming a large battery).
Main Advantages:
- Sufficient performance for the price;
- Support for modern features (high screen refresh rate, fast charging);
- Wide availability on the market.
However, if you want to shoot video in 4K, play Genshin Impact on ultra settings, or utilize 5G — look into more modern SoCs, such as the MediaTek Dimensity 700 or Snapdragon 4 Gen 2. Nevertheless, for most everyday tasks, the Helio G88 remains a reliable option.