Samsung Exynos 9609
Samsung Exynos 9609: a budget chipset for everyday tasks in 2025
An overview of the capabilities, strengths and weaknesses of the processor, as well as tips for choosing a device
1. Architecture and Manufacturing Process: A Balance Between Past and Future
Exynos 9609 is a mobile processor released by Samsung for the budget and mid-range smartphone segment. Even though in 2025 the market has transitioned to thinner manufacturing processes (5-7 nm), the 10-nanometer architecture of the chip is still being used in devices priced under $250.
CPU: 8 cores with a focus on energy efficiency
The processor is built on a hybrid big.LITTLE architecture:
- 4 high-performance Cortex-A73 cores with up to 2.2 GHz for resource-intensive tasks;
- 4 energy-efficient Cortex-A53 cores with a frequency of 1.6 GHz for background processes.
This configuration ensures a balance between performance and battery life, but lags behind modern chips with Cortex-A75/A55 cores or newer.
GPU: Mali-G72 MP3 — modest gaming capabilities
The graphics accelerator with three cores is suitable for basic gaming and interface processing. It supports resolutions up to Quad HD+ (2560×1440 pixels), but often requires lowering graphics settings in games.
10 nm Manufacturing Process: A Compromise Between Price and Efficiency
Compared to 7-nm or 5-nm chips, the Exynos 9609 is less energy-efficient. However, this allows for a lower device cost, which is critical for the budget segment.
2. Real-World Performance: What Can the Exynos 9609 Do?
Gaming: Only for Undemanding Projects
- Light Games (e.g., Among Us, Candy Crush) run smoothly.
- Medium Load (PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile) - stability on low or medium settings at 30 FPS. Extended sessions may lead to overheating and throttling.
- Heavy Games (Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail) - low frame rates (20-25 FPS) even on minimal settings.
Multimedia: 4K Video and Streaming
The chipset decodes 4K video (H.265/HEVC), but recording is limited to 1080p@60 FPS. There is no AV1 support, so streams in this format will load the processor.
Artificial Intelligence: Basic Functions
The Exynos 9609 does not have a dedicated NPU (Neural Processing Unit), so AI tasks (e.g., object recognition in the camera) are handled via the CPU and GPU. This slows down operations and increases power consumption.
Power Consumption and Heating
With a TDP of 9 W, the chipset requires active cooling. In smartphones with a 4000–5000 mAh battery, it provides 6–8 hours of screen time (web surfing, social networks). However, during gaming or video recording, the battery drains faster.
3. Built-in Modules: Basic Connectivity
- Modem: Supports 4G LTE (Cat. 12/13), but no 5G. Maximum download speed — up to 600 Mbps.
- Wi-Fi: Only Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac), without Wi-Fi 6/6E. Sufficient for home use, but may experience delays on public networks.
- Bluetooth: Version 5.0 with support for AAC and aptX for wireless headphones.
- Navigation: GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou. Accuracy is on par with competitors, but cold starts take up to 30 seconds.
4. Comparison with Competitors: Who is Ahead?
Exynos 9609 vs. MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ (2024)
- Dimensity 6100+: 6-nm manufacturing process, 2× Cortex-A76 (2.2 GHz) + 6× Cortex-A55 (2.0 GHz), Mali-G57 MC2. Better energy efficiency, supports 5G and Wi-Fi 6. AnTuTu 10 — ~320,000.
- Exynos 9609: Cheaper by $20-30, but inferior in speed and features.
Exynos 9609 vs. Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 3 (2025)
- Snapdragon 4 Gen 3: 6-nm, 2× Cortex-A78 (2.4 GHz) + 6× Cortex-A55 (1.8 GHz), Adreno 619. AnTuTu 10 — ~350,000. Supports 5G and cameras up to 108 MP.
Conclusion: Exynos 9609 is a choice for those willing to sacrifice 5G and modern connectivity standards for cost savings.
5. Use Cases: Who is the Chipset Suitable For?
- Everyday Tasks: Social networks, messengers, online video (YouTube, Netflix)—all run smoothly.
- Photo and Video: Recording in 1080p@60 FPS, basic night modes. Sensors up to 48 MP (without zoom and advanced stabilization).
- Gaming: Only casual games or retro console emulators (PSP, Nintendo DS).
6. Pros and Cons of Exynos 9609
Pros:
- Low device cost ($150–250).
- Sufficient performance for basic tasks.
- Supports 4K displays.
Cons:
- Outdated 10 nm manufacturing process.
- Lack of 5G and Wi-Fi 6.
- Weak GPU for modern games.
7. Tips for Choosing a Smartphone with Exynos 9609
- Battery: Look for models with at least 5000 mAh — this compensates for the less-than-ideal energy efficiency.
- Screen: AMOLED panels (e.g., in Samsung Galaxy M25) improve content consumption experience.
- Memory: Minimum 4/64 GB (preferably 6/128 GB for multitasking).
- Additional Features: NFC for contactless payments, 3.5 mm audio jack.
Popular Models of 2025:
- Samsung Galaxy A15 ($180): 6.5" 90 Hz, 5000 mAh, 50 MP camera.
- Xiaomi Redmi Note 14E ($160): 6.43" AMOLED, 48 MP, 33 W charging.
8. Final Conclusion: Who is Exynos 9609 Suitable For?
This processor is an option for:
- Budget users who do not need 5G and high-end gaming.
- Students and seniors who value battery life and simplicity.
- Backup devices — for example, for travel.
Key Benefits: Savings of $100–150 compared to 5G-powered models, stability in everyday tasks, support for quality screens.
The Exynos 9609 won't surprise with innovations but fulfills its role in the budget segment. If you need a reliable smartphone for calls, social networks, and occasional gaming, it will be a worthy choice.