The Game-Changer in Budget Smartphones: A Detailed Review of the Helio G90

As the smartphone industry continuously evolves, processors remain one of the most critical components determining a device’s performance. The MediaTek Helio G90 processor has managed to create waves, particularly in the budget and mid-range segments, with its balance between performance and affordability. If you’re a budget-conscious consumer or a tech enthusiast looking for a phone that doesn’t break the bank but still performs at a high level, the Helio G90 should be on your radar.

In this blog, we will dive deep into what makes the Helio G90 special, how it performs in real-world scenarios, and why it’s a top contender in the budget segment.

Overview of the MediaTek Helio G90

The Helio G90 is part of MediaTek’s G-series, designed specifically for gaming and performance-heavy tasks. Launched to rival Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 700 series, this chipset offers a significant performance boost at a relatively low cost. It is built using a 12nm process and combines advanced CPU, GPU, and AI technology for an efficient and powerful user experience.

Key Specifications of the Helio G90

Why the Helio G90 Stands Out

1. Optimized for Gaming

One of the standout features of the Helio G90 is its gaming optimization through MediaTek’s HyperEngine technology. This technology enables faster response times between the smartphone and the network, enhances picture quality, and reduces latency during gameplay, offering a smoother gaming experience.

The Mali-G76 GPU also provides excellent graphical performance, capable of handling demanding games like PUBG Mobile, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Asphalt 9 at high settings. For budget smartphones, this is a huge win, as users can now experience near-flagship-level gaming without spending too much.

2. AI Enhancements

In today’s smartphones, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity. The Helio G90 comes equipped with multi-core AI processors that enhance various tasks such as:

• AI Camera Features: The chipset supports AI-powered enhancements for both photography and video, such as AI facial detection, object and scene recognition, and AI-based bokeh effects for portrait photography.
• AI Performance Boost: This chip offers improved AI-based resource management, meaning it can allocate resources to apps and processes more intelligently, reducing lag and improving overall performance.

3. Camera Capabilities

Another area where the Helio G90 excels is in its camera performance. The chipset can support a 64MP primary camera or a dual 24MP + 16MP setup. It is also capable of 4K video recording, which is impressive for a mid-range processor.

Key camera features include:

• AI-powered noise reduction for better low-light photos
• Real-time beautification using AI for enhancing portrait shots
• AI HDR for better dynamic range in challenging lighting conditions

The combination of high-resolution support and AI-driven enhancements allows the Helio G90-powered phones to deliver excellent photography at a fraction of the cost compared to flagship devices.

4. Performance

The Helio G90 is designed to deliver top-notch performance for both gaming and daily tasks. With two Cortex-A76 cores clocked at 2.05 GHz and six Cortex-A55 cores clocked at 2.0 GHz, it strikes a perfect balance between performance and power efficiency.

In benchmarks like AnTuTu, the Helio G90 scores around 280,000, placing it slightly below Snapdragon 720G but above other budget processors like the Snapdragon 665. This makes it a great option for consumers who need more performance without jumping into premium prices.

5. Efficient Power Usage

Built on the 12nm FinFET process, the Helio G90 offers efficient power management, which means you get more hours out of your battery despite using resource-intensive apps. MediaTek has also optimized the chipset for thermal management, ensuring that even under heavy load, the device doesn’t overheat, which is crucial during prolonged gaming sessions.

Comparing the Helio G90 to Its Competitors

While the Helio G90 is impressive, it does face stiff competition in the mid-range market. Here’s a comparison with its main rivals:

Helio G90 for the Average Consumer: Is It Worth It?

The Helio G90 is a solid choice for consumers who want performance, gaming capability, and AI-driven enhancements without paying flagship prices. Here’s why:

1. Affordable Price Point

The main advantage of the Helio G90 is its price. Smartphones with this processor typically retail at a much lower price than their Snapdragon or Exynos counterparts, making it a great option for budget-conscious buyers.

2. Versatility

From gaming to photography to AI-enhanced tasks, the Helio G90 delivers a well-rounded performance that suits a wide range of users. Whether you’re a gamer, a photographer, or just someone who needs a reliable device, this chipset has you covered.

3. Future-Proof

With support for up to 10 GB of LPDDR4X RAM, the Helio G90 ensures that your device remains relevant even as apps and operating systems become more demanding.

Pros and Cons of the Helio G90

Pros:

• Affordable high-performance chipset for gaming and daily tasks
• AI capabilities enhance both performance and photography
• Good thermal management for prolonged usage
• Excellent camera support with features usually found in higher-end devices
• MediaTek HyperEngine technology optimizes gaming performance

Cons:

• Slightly lower battery efficiency compared to Snapdragon 720G
• Built on a 12nm process, which is less efficient than newer 8nm or 7nm chips
• Not 5G-ready, which may be a drawback as 5G networks continue to roll out globally

Conclusion: Should You Buy a Helio G90-powered Phone?

The Helio G90 is a game-changer in the budget smartphone segment, offering performance levels previously reserved for mid-range or even flagship devices. Its focus on gaming, AI-driven tasks, and camera enhancements makes it a great choice for anyone looking for an affordable yet powerful device.

For those seeking a smartphone that can handle gaming, multitasking, and photography without straining their budget, Helio G90-powered phones are an excellent option. The balance of performance and price makes this chipset a worthy contender in today’s crowded smartphone market.

In summary:

• If you’re a gamer on a budget, the Helio G90 will provide a smooth, enjoyable experience.
• If you’re into photography, the AI-powered camera capabilities will let you take stunning pictures without needing a flagship device.
• For everyday users, the efficient power management and AI enhancements make this a solid choice for long-term use.

If performance and value for money are what you prioritize, the Helio G90 is undoubtedly a processor worth considering in 2024.