Tensor G4 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 1: Power vs Performance

Tensor G4 vs Snapdragon 8 Gen 1: Power vs Performance

With the release of Google’s Pixel 9 series, many were eager to see how the Tensor G4 would perform. Disappointingly, early benchmark results show that while the Tensor G4 marginally outperforms its predecessor, the Tensor G3, it still lags behind Qualcomm’s aging Snapdragon 8 Gen 1. However, the Tensor G4 offers significantly better power efficiency, a crucial aspect in today’s mobile computing landscape.

Thanks to Samsung’s refined 4nm fabrication process, the Tensor G4 excels in power efficiency, consuming nearly half the power of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 during high-stress tasks. While Google’s chip doesn’t break performance records, it easily outpaces both the Tensor G3 and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 when it comes to performance per watt, making it an excellent choice for users who prioritize battery life over raw power.

The Tensor G4 achieved a score of 2,618 in the 3DMark Wild Life Extreme benchmark, a slight increase over the Tensor G3’s 2,445. Unfortunately, it still falls short of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, a chipset released in 2021. The performance boost likely stems from an improved CPU, as Google retained the same GPU from the Tensor G3, which did little to enhance graphical performance.

A Google executive hinted that the Tensor G4 wasn’t built to dominate benchmarks but rather to excel at specific tasks that benefit Pixel 9 users. While the performance may seem underwhelming in synthetic tests, the SoC’s emphasis on power efficiency and optimized task execution could offer a more streamlined experience for day-to-day use. With apps becoming more power-intensive, this balance of efficiency could cater well to Google’s long-term vision for mobile computing.

While the Tensor G4 shows only moderate performance gains, the upcoming Tensor G5, expected in 2025, promises to close the gap with competitors. Built on TSMC’s 3nm process, the G5 is rumored to bring improved efficiency through InFO-POP packaging, which reduces the SoC’s die size and further optimizes power consumption. This technology will help Google continue its trend of prioritizing power management while aiming for higher performance in future Pixel devices.