The Tensor G3 is slower than the A14 Bionic chip that debuted in the iPhone 12 series
A new comparison in the Geekbench 6 database shows that the upcoming Google Tensor G3 is slower than Apple's A14 Bionic chipset that debuted three years ago in the iPhone 12 series of phones. The Google chip is apparently up to 21.5 percent slower than the A14 Bionic chip, but the improved manufacturing process suggests it could be better when it comes to power efficiency.
Although the Tensor G3 recorded an increase in the category of single-core and multi-core Geekbench 6 results compared to its predecessor – the Tensor G2 chipset, it lags significantly behind competing chips of the current generation such as the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or the A17 Pro.
However, it is not only lagging behind the current Apple chipset, but this is also the case in some segments when it comes to the three-year-old A14 Bionic processor.
The difference is smaller when it comes to multi-core results, but the A14 Bionic is 21.5 percent faster than the upcoming Google chip when it comes to single-core performance.
GeekbenchHowever, while the results on paper may differ, that doesn't necessarily always mean the real-world experience will be the same. Even so, a lower score translates into reduced performance, whether you're browsing the web, streaming video, or playing games.
The only bright spot that could save the Tensor G3 from this problem is actually its energy efficiency. A SoC mass-produced on Samsung's improved 4nm manufacturing process could have higher performance-per-watt metrics than the A14 Bionic. However, we should not forget that it is still a chip that is three years older than the upcoming Google flagship in this product category.
If you're one of those who would happily skip the new Google chip generation because it can't beat the chip from 2020 and the A series, you might be disappointed next year as well. Rumors suggest that the Tensor G4 will offer minor upgrades to the Pixel 9 and Pixel 9 Pro phones.
On the other hand, if you want the purest form of the Android operating system, you can only get it in the Pixel phones, so if tests are not your priority, you can invest in the Pixel 8 or Pixel 8 Pro which are due to be launched later today.