Representational imageAs always, processors remain the keyword when buying a smartphone or a laptop. From single core to multiple cores, processors have undergone an evolution over time.
MediaTek pioneered the concept of deca-cores when they launched Helio X20 chipset. Recently the Chinese chipset makers also launched Helio X30, a more powerful chipset with a similar number of cores. With these new 10-core chipsets, handset developers are now expected to launch more smartphones and PCs with deca-core processors. Before delving into it, let’s see how deca-core processor works.
How does a deca-core processor work?
Let’s see how MediaTek MT6797 Helio X20 functions. The processor comes with two quad-core configurations and a dual core processor. Its first set of four Cortex A53 cores is expected to deal with all basic functions. The other set of more powerful four Cortex A53 cores will be called in for duty when performing more demanding tasks. The remaining two Cortex A72 cores will be assigned to deal high-end tasks like 3D photography or 4K video capturing.
Deca-core processors & performance
As far as performance is concerned, processors remain very important. So having a powerful processor nearly equals top-end performance. The general principle is that more the number of cores, more powerful the processor is going to be. But be cautious, choosing a processor based on the numbers alone won’t help.
We often fail to take into account the roles of other factors like RAM, software, and a cache memory, which also influence the performance. For instance, a quad-core processor coupled with 2GB of RAM will be faster compared to an octa-core processor paired with 1GB of RAM. The performance varies from chipsets to chipsets. Qualcomm Snapdragon chipsets are superior to Mediatek. Similarly, differences are noted in the performance of chipsets by Exynos, Intel, and Spreadtrum.
Do we really need a deca-core processor?
As a deca-core processor uses 10 cores to complete its tasks, it is normal that we can expect a better performance. These processors are more efficient than other quad core processors and octa-core processors, which use four cores and eight cores, respectively. As a result, you can experience the device to turn super-fast. Though not as fast as this, you can expect an octa-core (or even a quad-core) processor to perform well in normal use cases. The smartphone won’t hang if it has a decent RAM.
Deca-core processors are ideal for vivid gamers and users who do heavy multitasking. As it is a powerful processor, it won’t have any hanging issues and the process will become smoother and faster. But for basic uses, deca-core processors are not necessary. More importantly, more cores will reduce the battery performance. So, choose accordingly.
Read more: Latest Gadget news | Here's why Xiaomi Redmi Note 4 is better than its predecessor
