MediaTek vs Snapdragon: Which Processor Truly Wins in 2025?

MediaTek vs Snapdragon: The Truth Behind the Tech Battle

In the tech world, there’s a never-ending debate: is Snapdragon better than MediaTek, or has MediaTek finally caught up? Many users immediately dismiss MediaTek processors as inferior, often jokingly calling them “Aadiyatek” or assuming they’re substandard. Even I’ve been guilty of favoring Snapdragon over MediaTek, labeling Snapdragon as the best for years.

But here’s the twist: under certain conditions—and quite a few of them—MediaTek processors can actually outperform Snapdragon. Surprising, right?

Let’s start at the core: both Snapdragon and MediaTek processors are built on the ARM architecture. While Snapdragon enhances its cores for efficiency—calling them Kryo cores—MediaTek uses Cortex cores with less optimization. But structurally, both are more alike than you’d expect. You could say they’re like close cousins in the processor family tree.

So when is MediaTek actually better?

1. Affordability Without Compromise

MediaTek chips are extremely cost-effective, delivering excellent price-to-performance ratios. In raw performance, they often match or even surpass Snapdragon in similarly priced devices. The myth of MediaTek overheating? That’s history. That used to happen during the days of Helio P22 and older models.

Now, with the Dimensity series, starting from the 6100 to the 8200 and beyond, thermal control and performance have drastically improved. These newer chips remain cool while delivering top-tier processing and GPU power, making them ideal for budget smartphones without sacrificing quality.

2. 5G for the Masses

Want 5G on a ₹10,000 or ₹15,000 phone? With Snapdragon, that’s rare. But MediaTek brings 5G to affordable phones, enabling users in developing countries to experience next-gen connectivity without breaking the bank.

This widespread 5G accessibility is a game changer. Imagine, without MediaTek, how would budget users get 5G? Even 5G dongles are scarce—there’s an entire untold story behind that, which deserves its own article. But the bottom line is: MediaTek is helping democratize 5G.

3. AI Capabilities on a Budget

MediaTek has stepped up in the AI game too. Its latest chipsets come with powerful AI engines, enabling advanced features like better image processing, voice recognition, and smart UI behavior—even on low-cost phones.

And let’s not forget high refresh rate displays. Where it once seemed impossible to get 90Hz or 120Hz screens on ₹15,000 devices, MediaTek has made it a standard.

4. Availability and Reliability

Snapdragon processors might have the edge in elite performance, but they often suffer from limited availability and supply chain issues. MediaTek, in contrast, produces in large volumes, ensuring their chips are readily available and keeping phone prices low. It’s the reason you rarely see MediaTek phones out of stock.

You might admire a rare gem, but if it’s out of your budget or unavailable when you need it, what’s the point? MediaTek delivers when it counts—on time, in budget, and in stock.

5. Gaming That Doesn’t Break the Bank

Gaming? Yes, MediaTek nails that too. The Dimensity 6100 and 8200 series are optimized for performance, and even professional mobile gamers are now using MediaTek-powered phones. Some are even sponsored, using these chips for competitive-level gaming.

Their SoCs now also appear in laptops, equipped with AI capabilities, showing just how far MediaTek has come from being the “budget-only” option.

Final Thoughts: No Longer the Underdog

There was a time when MediaTek was considered a poor choice—hot chips, slow processing, and minimal optimization. But that era is long gone. Today, MediaTek delivers cool, efficient, and powerful processors built on modern fabrication nodes, often 6nm or lower.

Snapdragon is still great, especially for flagship devices. But MediaTek has carved out a powerful space in mid-range and budget segments, becoming a champion in its own right. It’s no longer fair to call it a second choice.

If your current phone runs on a MediaTek chip—congratulations. You’re probably getting fantastic performance at a fraction of the price.