MediaTek Helio P35

MediaTek Helio P35: A Budget Processor for Everyday Tasks

Analysis of the capabilities and use cases of the 2025 SoC

Introduction

MediaTek Helio P35 is a system on chip (SoC) that has remained popular in budget and mid-range smartphones for several years. Despite the release of newer chips such as the Helio G and Dimensity series, the P35 retains its position due to its low cost and energy efficiency. In this article, we will explore who the processor is suitable for in 2025, how it handles modern tasks, and what to consider when choosing a device based on it.

1. Architecture and Process Technology: A Balance Between Efficiency and Cost

Cores and Frequencies

The Helio P35 is built on an 8-core architecture with two clusters:

- 4 Cortex-A53 cores clocked at up to 2.3 GHz for resource-intensive tasks;

- 4 Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 1.8 GHz for background processes.

This big.LITTLE approach allows for optimized power consumption: the powerful cores activate during gaming or application launches, while the weaker cores manage messengers or music playback.

GPU PowerVR GE8320

The PowerVR GE8320 GPU operates at a frequency of up to 680 MHz. It supports resolutions up to Full HD+ (2400×1080) and basic APIs such as OpenGL ES 3.2. Its capabilities are insufficient for modern 3D games, but it is adequate for casual projects (e.g., Candy Crush or Subway Surfers).

12-Nanometer Process Technology

The chip is manufactured using a 12nm process, which is considered outdated in 2025 (market leaders have moved to 4-6nm). However, this provides two advantages:

- Low manufacturing cost;

- Moderate heating (TDP of only 2.2 W).

2. Performance in Real-World Tasks

Gaming

The average score in Geekbench 6 is 261 (Single-Core) and 814 (Multi-Core). This is at the level of basic smartphones. Examples:

- Genshin Impact — minimum settings, frame rates around 20-25 FPS;

- PUBG Mobile — low graphics, 30 FPS;

- Clash Royale and browser games — lag-free.

Multimedia

- Support for Full HD video (H.265 encoding/decoding);

- No 4K rendering;

- Smooth streaming on YouTube and Netflix.

AI Applications

The Helio P35 lacks a dedicated neural processing unit (NPU), so tasks such as photo processing via neural networks (e.g., Google Photos) are performed slower compared to chips with AI accelerators.

Power Consumption and Heating

Thanks to the 12nm process and modest clock frequencies, smartphones with the P35 demonstrate:

- Up to 12-14 hours of mixed-use battery life;

- Fast charging (usually 10-15 W);

- No throttling even under prolonged load.

3. Built-in Modules: Basic Connectivity

Modem

- 4G LTE Cat-7 with speeds up to 300 Mbps for download and 150 Mbps for upload;

- Lack of 5G — the main drawback in 2025 where fifth-generation networks have become standard even in the budget segment.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

- Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac) supporting 2.4/5 GHz bands;

- Bluetooth 5.0 (no compatibility with LE Audio).

Satellite Systems

- GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou — for basic navigation;

- No support for Galileo or QZSS.

4. Comparison with Competitors

MediaTek Helio G25 (Previous Generation)

- G25 is weaker: 8 Cortex-A53 cores up to 2.0 GHz, PowerVR GE8320 GPU at 650 MHz;

- AnTuTu 10: ~100,000 vs 141,956 for P35.

Qualcomm Snapdragon 680

- Comparable in price (devices starting from $150);

- Better GPU performance (Adreno 610) and support for 4K video;

- Higher power consumption (TDP of 3.5 W).

Unisoc Tiger T610

- Comparable power (AnTuTu 10 ~140,000);

- Camera support up to 48 MP compared to 25 MP for P35;

- Less stable operation with heavy applications.

5. Use Cases: Where Helio P35 is Relevant

Gaming

Only suitable for non-demanding games. If you play rarely and enjoy simple projects — P35 is adequate. For PUBG or CoD Mobile, it’s better to choose the Snapdragon 680.

Everyday Tasks

- Social media, messengers, email;

- Video watching, music listening;

- Document work (Google Docs, Excel).

Photography and Videography

- Maximum camera resolution: 25 MP;

- Video recording: 1080p@30fps;

- Night shooting and HDR require optimization from the smartphone manufacturer.

6. Pros and Cons of the Processor

Advantages

- Low cost of devices (smartphones from $120);

- Energy efficiency;

- Stable performance without overheating.

Disadvantages

- Weak graphics;

- Lack of 5G and AI accelerators;

- Limitations in photo/video processing.

7. Practical Tips for Choosing a Smartphone

What to Look For:

- RAM Size: at least 4 GB for Android 14+;

- Android Version: up-to-date OS with regular updates;

- Display: IPS or AMOLED with a refresh rate of 60-90 Hz;

- Battery: at least 5000 mAh for prolonged use.

Typical Devices in 2025:

- Realme C55 ($130–150): 6.5" screen, 4 GB RAM, 64 GB storage;

- Xiaomi Redmi 12C ($140): 5000 mAh, 50 MP camera;

- Infinix Smart 8 ($120): compact design, NFC.

8. Final Conclusion: Who is Suitable for the Helio P35?

This processor is suitable for those who:

1. Are not willing to pay extra for 5G;

2. Value long battery life;

3. Use their smartphone for basic tasks (calls, social media, light gaming).

Main Benefits:

- Device prices below $150;

- Smooth operation in standard scenarios;

- Reliability and no heating issues.

However, if you need performance for mobile gaming, 4K video recording, or working with AI applications — consider chips like Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 or MediaTek Dimensity 6100+.

Conclusion

The MediaTek Helio P35 remains relevant in 2025 as one of the most affordable processors. It is suitable for students, seniors, or anyone looking for a second phone for work. However, remember: technology does not stand still, and even budget chips are gradually gaining 5G and AI features. Choose the P35 only if your needs are modest and your budget is limited.