Google’s Pixel devices are generally not known for their raw power or the position in a benchmark score list. Google aims for smart features rather than focusing on topping the benchmark, which isn’t always necessary either. But also, Tensor chips have always lagged behind the power efficiency, which is important. And to measure the power efficiency improvements on the Tensor G3, some tests were necessary.
Golden Reviewer performed different tests and recorded the results alongside its competitors to figure out if the performance and power efficiency have been improved. The Google Tensor G3 houses one more CPU core than the convention (1x Cortex-X3 + 4x A715 + 4x A510) and an ARM Mali-G715 GPU.
Tensor G3 loses benchmarks
In 3DMark Wildlife Extreme GPU test, the Tensor G3 performed similarly to Apple’s three year old A14 chip. Not to mention it’s a bit disappointing. After all, the phone is a flagship and it should keep up with a demanding game or so if you want to play.
GSMArena compared the Tensor G3 to the Dimensity 9200 from the list (below) as it houses the same Mali-G715 GPU fabricated on TSMC’s nodes. In comparison, Google fabricates their chip in collaboration with Samsung and this is where Tensor chips have suffered at least previously. According to Golden Reviewer, Samsung Foundry’s 4LPP node is nearly two generations behind TSMC’s 4nm one.
Back to the tests, the Dimensity 9200 performed 1.5 times better than the Tensor G3. At least the Tensor G3 was able to achieve similar power efficiency. Moving over to GFXBench Aztec (Vulkan/Metal back end, 1440p offscreen), the Dimensity 9200 again yielded nearly double the score than the Tensor G2 with similar efficiency.
The improved efficiency will matter
The key point here is that Google has managed to match the efficiency of TSMC-fabricated silicon. Although, real-life scenarios may yield different results at times.
The results suggest that Pixel 8 series devices may not heat up as much as the Pixel 7 series did. This is excellent news for Pixel fans because overheating and related issues were the primary barriers preventing the Pixel from surpassing its status as ‘one of the best’.
2023-10-13 15:05:16