Android tablets have really stepped up their game in recent years. Guess why? The secret lies in the evolving Android Tablet Processors technology. Newer Android tablets are equipped with more powerful, better-quality processors making tasks like multitasking, intensive gaming, and even AI abilities a breeze. This is vital knowledge for everybody – students, working people, or gaming enthusiasts when choosing a tablet to suit their preferences.
So, let’s explore 20 of the best Android tablet processors, taking a look at their specs, performance, and unique characteristics.
The Role of Processors in Tablet Performance
Let’s pause and take a moment to understand why a processor, or “chip”, is so significant in an Android tablet. Imagine the processor as the tablet’s brain. It runs the show – managing apps, processing data, overseeing battery efficiency, and enabling rapid connectivity. A top-notch processor equals a faster, more graphic-rich, and seamless multitasking experience. So, remember, when you’re out shopping for Android tablets, the processor should be on top of your checklist.
Top Android Tablet Processors: Detailed Specifications and Performance
Below is a table that outlines the specifications of the top 20 Android tablet processors, followed by an in-depth look at each one. This should help you better understand how each processor performs and which might be the best fit for your needs.
Processor | CPU Cores | Clock Speed (GHz) | GPU | Process Node (nm) | Key Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 | 8 | 3.0 | Adreno 730 | 4 | AI-driven optimizations, 5G support |
Snapdragon 865+ | 8 | 3.1 | Adreno 650 | 7 | Enhanced gaming, 5G capabilities |
Exynos 2100 | 8 | 2.9 | Mali-G78 MP14 | 5 | High efficiency, excellent multitasking |
MediaTek Dimensity 1200 | 8 | 3.0 | Mali-G77 MC9 | 6 | Great for multitasking, 5G ready |
Kirin 9000 | 8 | 3.13 | Mali-G78 MP24 | 5 | AI performance, 5G |
Apple M1 | 8 | 3.2 | 8-core GPU | 5 | Top-notch performance, great battery life |
Snapdragon 750G | 8 | 2.2 | Adreno 619 | 8 | Battery efficiency, affordable |
Helio G90T | 8 | 2.05 | Mali-G76 MC4 | 12 | Mid-range gaming, efficient |
Snapdragon 730G | 8 | 2.2 | Adreno 618 | 8 | Optimized for gaming, efficient |
Exynos 9611 | 8 | 2.3 | Mali-G72 MP3 | 10 | Balanced performance |
MediaTek Helio P60 | 8 | 2.0 | Mali-G72 MP3 | 12 | Entry-level gaming, efficient |
Snapdragon 690 | 8 | 2.0 | Adreno 619L | 8 | Affordable 5G |
Exynos 850 | 8 | 2.0 | Mali-G52 | 8 | Power-efficient, ideal for basic tasks |
Snapdragon 665 | 8 | 2.0 | Adreno 610 | 11 | Energy-efficient |
MediaTek Helio P22T | 8 | 2.3 | PowerVR GE8320 | 12 | Entry-level |
Kirin 710A | 8 | 2.0 | Mali-G51 MP4 | 14 | Affordable and balanced |
Snapdragon 460 | 8 | 1.8 | Adreno 610 | 11 | Affordable, good for basic tasks |
Exynos 7884 | 8 | 1.6 | Mali-G71 MP2 | 14 | Budget-friendly |
MediaTek MT8768 | 8 | 2.0 | IMG GE8320 | 12 | Low power consumption |
Unisoc T610 | 8 | 1.8 | Mali-G52 | 12 | Low-budget, efficient |
Deep Dive into Top 20 Processors Used in Android Tablets
Android tablets have many types of processors, all made for different uses. Some give the best graphics for gamers, and others are made for normal daily work. Here are 20 top Android tablet processors explained in simple terms. Each chip has its own benefits. No matter if you’re working, studying, or simply love to stream smoothly, there’s a perfect processor out there for you.
1. Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
The Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 is a powerhouse, built on a 4nm process, bringing AI-driven optimizations and up to 3.0 GHz in clock speed. With advanced 5G support and the Adreno 730 GPU, this processor is ideal for heavy multitasking, high-end gaming, and intense productivity.
Best For: Professionals, gamers, and those needing top-tier performance.
2. Snapdragon 865+
With a clock speed up to 3.1 GHz and Adreno 650 GPU, the Snapdragon 865+ is known for a smooth gaming experience and efficiency. It’s a fantastic mid-high range choice, delivering excellent graphics without draining the battery as fast.
Best For: Gamers and users wanting high-speed performance on a budget.
3. Exynos 2100
The Exynos 2100, designed by Samsung, is crafted for seamless multitasking. Built on a 5nm process, it’s energy-efficient and fast, making it ideal for professionals juggling multiple apps.
Best For: Business users and multitaskers who value smooth transitions between apps.
4. MediaTek Dimensity 1200
Known for balancing power and efficiency, the Dimensity 1200 reaches up to 3.0 GHz and supports 5G. It’s great for students or young professionals who need a strong multitasking processor.
Best For: Cost-conscious buyers seeking performance and decent gaming.
5. Kirin 9000
Huawei’s Kirin 9000 excels in AI and image processing, making it ideal for creatives and professionals needing top-tier AI-driven capabilities. The 5nm chip with the Mali-G78 MP24 GPU also supports 5G, making it a strong contender for remote workers.
Best For: Creatives, photographers, and AI-driven app users.
6. Apple M1 (for Android-Compatible Platforms)
While technically part of the Apple ecosystem, the M1 chip is included here for its undeniable power. Known for excellent energy efficiency and top performance, the M1 is suitable for power users who use Apple and Android together.
Best For: Cross-platform professionals needing power and longevity.
7. Snapdragon 750G
This mid-range processor balances efficiency and power, making it an affordable choice for everyday productivity. With support for 5G and a reliable Adreno 619 GPU, the Snapdragon 750G is ideal for light gaming and multitasking.
Best For: Budget-conscious users looking for balanced performance.
8. Helio G90T
Built by MediaTek, the Helio G90T delivers decent gaming performance on a budget. With the Mali-G76 MC4 GPU, it’s capable of handling most mobile games smoothly.
Best For: Budget gamers or casual users needing smooth media playback.
9. Snapdragon 730G
The Snapdragon 730G is optimized for gaming and offers balanced performance. Equipped with an Adreno 618 GPU, it handles entertainment tasks, like video streaming, seamlessly.
Best For: Gamers, streamers, and media lovers.
10. Exynos 9611
A popular choice in Samsung’s mid-range tablets, the Exynos 9611 performs well across a variety of tasks. With its 2.3 GHz speed and Mali-G72 MP3 GPU, it’s balanced and suitable for general use.
Best For: Users needing a versatile processor for everyday apps.
11. MediaTek Helio P60
For entry-level needs, the MediaTek Helio P60 provides efficient power at an affordable price. It’s ideal for basic productivity and light gaming without overheating.
Best For: Entry-level users and budget-conscious buyers.
12. Snapdragon 690
An affordable 5G option, the Snapdragon 690 offers efficient speed for everyday tasks and light productivity, with an Adreno 619L GPU providing smooth graphics for basic gaming.
Best For: Students and everyday users seeking an affordable 5G tablet.
13. Exynos 850
Samsung’s Exynos 850 emphasizes efficiency and power conservation, making it ideal for lighter tasks and longer battery life. With a focus on budget-friendly devices, it suits basic productivity.
Best For: Battery-focused users who prioritize longevity over speed.
14. Snapdragon 665
The Snapdragon 665 balances energy efficiency with reliable performance, making it a strong option for mid-range devices. It’s known for its solid power management and smooth multitasking.
Best For: Moderate users needing energy-efficient multitasking.
15. MediaTek Helio P22T
Another budget-friendly processor, the Helio P22T provides basic functionality, suitable for users who need a simple device for browsing, video playback, and reading.
Best For: Casual users and students who need affordable tablets for light use.
16. Kirin 710A
A Huawei processor known for its balanced performance, the Kirin 710A is efficient for daily tasks, and its Mali-G51 MP4 GPU enables decent graphics for simple games.
Best For: Budget users and light productivity needs.
17. Snapdragon 460
The Snapdragon 460 delivers affordability with decent performance. Its Adreno 610 GPU makes it a fine choice for simple tasks and browsing, though it’s not built for intensive applications.
Best For: Entry-level users focused on browsing and light productivity.
18. Exynos 7884
This budget-friendly processor from Samsung is built for efficiency rather than power. With the Mali-G71 MP2 GPU, it’s geared toward basic use, like watching videos and light app usage.
Best For: Users on a budget needing simple media and app support.
19. MediaTek MT8768
An energy-efficient choice, the MT8768 focuses on battery conservation and is ideal for lighter workloads. It’s not intended for gaming or intense multitasking, but it’s great for basic tasks.
Best For: Casual users or children who need affordable tablets for basic use.
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20. Unisoc T610
The Unisoc T610 rounds out our list as an entry-level processor that focuses on low-cost, efficient performance. Paired with the Mali-G52 GPU, it’s fine for reading, browsing, and streaming, but may struggle with demanding applications.
Best For: Budget users seeking reliable performance for simple tasks.
Tablet Processor Performance Metrics: What to Look
When comparing processors, it’s essential to look beyond the specifications and consider what they mean for daily use. Here are some common performance metrics and what they indicate:
- CPU Cores and Clock Speed: More cores and higher clock speeds generally mean faster, more efficient processing. High-performance chips often have octa-core CPUs with clock speeds exceeding 2.0 GHz, making them suitable for heavy multitasking and gaming.
- Process Node (nm): This refers to the fabrication technology used to build the processor, and smaller numbers indicate newer, more efficient technology. Processors with 5 nm or 7 nm technology are generally faster and more power-efficient than those with 10 nm or larger.
- GPU (Graphics Processing Unit): The GPU handles rendering for graphics-heavy applications, such as games and video playback. High-end GPUs, such as the Adreno 730 or Mali-G78, offer superior visual performance and are suitable for gaming and creative work.
- Battery Efficiency: Many modern processors prioritize energy efficiency, which is especially important for mobile devices. Processors with optimized efficiency can help a tablet last through a full day of work or study on a single charge.
Choosing the Best Android Tablet Processor for Your Needs
Not all Android tablet users are looking for the same features in a device. Gamers, for instance, need powerful CPUs and GPUs for smooth gameplay, while students may prioritize affordability and battery life. Here’s a quick guide:
- For High-Performance Tasks (Gaming, Editing, etc.): Consider processors like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, Kirin 9000, and Exynos 2100. These chips offer excellent graphics and processing power.
- For Multitasking and Professional Use: Look at the Snapdragon 865+, Exynos 2100, and MediaTek Dimensity 1200. These processors support smooth multitasking and efficient workflows.
- For Budget-Friendly and Basic Tasks: Processors like the Snapdragon 665, MediaTek Helio P22T, and Unisoc T610 are ideal for light users focused on browsing, reading, or light productivity.
Android Tablet Processors FAQ
Picking the best suitable Android Tablet chip isn’t easy. Here are frequent questions that tackle the basics of Android tablet processors. They provide you the know-how you require to select wisely.
1. Are tablet processors different from phone processors?
Indeed, they usually are, but some might originate from similar processor families such as Snapdragon or MediaTek. Tablets are built for long-term multitasking and large screen usage, requiring processors able to endure lengthy operation periods and more visually intensive tasks.
For example, tablets typically utilize processors fine-tuned to manage larger batteries and prolonged tasks like streaming videos, editing documents, or certain design jobs. Conversely, smartphones are more tailored for speedy tasks, like taking pictures or operating light apps, emphasizing energy efficiency to save battery life.
2. What’s the best processor for gaming on an Android tablet?
For video games, a strong processor and exceptional GPU (graphics processing unit) are important. Look at processors like the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Kirin 9000. They have speedy cores and GPUs, like the Adreno 730. This GPU is great for heavy graphics. These processors reduce lag, stabilize frame rates, and enhance graphics.
This is vital for high-level games. For those on a budget, consider the Snapdragon 730G or MediaTek Dimensity 1200. They offer decent graphic support at a cheaper price, managing most phone games fairly well even if they don’t hit maximum settings.
3. What does “nm” mean in processors, and why is it important?
“Nm” is short for nanometers. It represents the size of a processor’s construction, often shown as 5nm, 7nm, or 12nm. Simply put, a tinier nm implies a more recent, efficient processor. Take a 5nm chip, for instance, used in Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Exynos 2100. These have transistors that are closer together, leading to superior power efficiency and performance.
Diminutive nm chips draw less power for jobs, which results in reduced battery drainage and less heat. Therefore, your tablet will run quicker and stay cooler. For those eyeing budget processors with larger nm sizes, like 10nm or 12nm, they also work well. However, they might not be as proficient in saving battery as their smaller siblings.
4. How does Apple’s M1 processor compare to Android processors?
Apple’s M1 chip often gets attention because of its vast power. It bridges the gap between tablets and laptops in terms of performance. Android processors, such as Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 and Exynos 2100, are quite close in competition.
Yet, the M1 chip commonly takes the lead in raw speed, power usage, and multitasking capabilities. The edge comes majorly from Apple’s unique control over both hardware and software, optimizing all aspects together. Nonetheless, top Android processors don’t disappoint either.
They perform superbly particularly in gaming, video editing, and managing multiple app operations. So, if you seek an Android device with similar prowess, flagship models boasting the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 or Samsung’s Exynos 2200 are noteworthy competitors.
5. Which processor is best for battery life?
Think about this. Processors are like the brain of your device and the battery is like its heartbeat. How long your device stays “alive” isn’t just about the processor or the battery, but also things like screen size and how well the software has been set up. Take the Snapdragon processors as an example.
They’re good at juggling power and battery life. The high-grade ones, like the 865+ or 8 Gen 1 (built on 5nm), are pros at controlling the battery drainage without messing up performance. Then there’s Samsung’s Exynos processors. Those built on a 5nm process, like the Exynos 2100, have a knack for managing power too.
MediaTek’s Dimensity series is getting better in efficiency, particularly models like the Dimensity 1200. It works well in mid-range tablets and helps the battery last longer. Want a long-lasting battery? Go for processors built on smaller nm processes. They stay cool and don’t eat up much power.
Final Thoughts
The Android tablet scene is vast – students, gamers, pros, everyone has something. Important is to know about top processors for the right performance, budget, and usage. Investing time to understand the processor that fits your needs ensures a reliable and efficient tablet. Your expectation – be it a top-tier gaming beast or a budget-friendly energy saver, an Android tablet processor is ready for you.
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