Snapdragon is Better Than MediaTek - Fully Explained

Summary

This video discusses the difference between a computer CPU and a smartphone's SoC (System on a Chip). The speaker explains that smartphone processors consist of multiple components like CPU, GPU, modem, AI processor, and image signal processor. The video compares MediaTek and Snapdragon processors, highlighting how Snapdragon offers better optimization for performance and battery efficiency, especially for gaming, while MediaTek balances efficiency and performance at a lower cost. It also touches on architecture, fabrication technology, and AI processing in these chipsets, emphasizing that Snapdragon currently outperforms MediaTek in several areas, but MediaTek is improving.

Takeaways

• 💻 The CPU in computers and the SoC in mobile phones serve similar purposes but are different in construction and integration.
• 📱 A smartphone's SoC (System on a Chip) includes multiple components like CPU, GPU, modem, AI processor, and Image Signal Processor (ISP).
• 🔄 Both MediaTek and Qualcomm Snapdragon use ARM architecture, but Snapdragon modifies its cores for better performance, while MediaTek uses them as provided.
• 🎮 MediaTek uses Mali GPU, which is suitable for light gaming but less optimized compared to Snapdragon's dedicated GPU for graphics performance.
• ⚖️ MediaTek has improved its efficiency with the Dimensity series by balancing high-performance and efficient cores, making them more competitive.
• 🤖 Snapdragon includes a dedicated AI unit in its SoC, leading to better AI-based features like voice recognition and image post-processing.
• 🔥 Efficient SoCs like those from Snapdragon generate less heat, leading to better battery life, as less energy is wasted in heat production.
• 💰 MediaTek offers better price-to-performance ratios compared to Snapdragon, which makes it a good choice for cost-effective devices.
• 🌡️ Optimized components, like those found in Snapdragon, consume less battery and generate less heat, resulting in better overall efficiency.
• 🎮 Snapdragon GPUs are more game-optimized, offering better performance for games that are specifically designed for its architecture.

Q & A

What is the difference between a CPU in a computer and an SoC in a smartphone?

In a computer, the CPU is a standalone chip that is installed on the motherboard. In a smartphone, what is commonly referred to as the CPU is actually an SoC (System on a Chip), which integrates the CPU along with other components such as the GPU, modem, AI processor, and image signal processor.

What components make up a smartphone SoC (System on a Chip)?

A smartphone SoC consists of five main components: CPU (Central Processing Unit), GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), modem, AI processor, and image signal processor (ISP).

What is the difference between the cores used in MediaTek and Snapdragon processors?

Snapdragon uses modified cores that are optimized for performance, while MediaTek, especially in its earlier models, typically used ARM’s default cores. However, MediaTek’s newer Dimensity series has been working to balance high-performance and efficient cores.

How do MediaTek and Snapdragon GPUs differ?

MediaTek typically uses Mali GPUs, which are not as advanced or optimized for high-end gaming as Snapdragon's Adreno GPUs. Snapdragon’s Adreno GPUs provide better graphics performance and are more suitable for heavy gaming.

Why are Snapdragon processors considered better for gaming compared to MediaTek?

Snapdragon processors are considered better for gaming because their Adreno GPUs are optimized for high-performance graphics, and many games are specifically optimized for Snapdragon hardware.

How does the AI processing differ between MediaTek and Snapdragon SoCs?

Snapdragon integrates a dedicated AI processing unit into its SoCs, which enhances tasks like voice recognition, image processing, and AI-driven functionalities. MediaTek also has AI capabilities, but Snapdragon's AI unit is generally considered more advanced.

What is the role of the image signal processor (ISP) in an SoC?

The image signal processor (ISP) is responsible for processing images and videos captured by the camera. It processes the data from the camera sensor before sending it to other components for further processing.

Why does Snapdragon offer better power efficiency compared to MediaTek?

Snapdragon processors are built on more efficient fabrication processes (such as 5nm and 3nm), which lead to better performance while consuming less battery power. This results in less heat generation and improved battery life compared to MediaTek.

What makes MediaTek SoCs a good choice for budget smartphones?

MediaTek SoCs offer a good price-to-performance ratio, making them an excellent choice for budget smartphones. They may not be as powerful as Snapdragon in terms of gaming or AI, but they provide reliable performance at a lower cost.

What is the significance of efficient cores in MediaTek's newer Dimensity series?

The efficient cores in MediaTek's Dimensity series help in handling tasks that do not require much processing power, allowing for better battery life and heat management, while the high-performance cores handle more demanding tasks.