I know we’ve been spending a lot of time in the mid-range lately, but let’s step away from all that glamour and performance for a bit. Today, I want us to talk about the entry level processor in 2025 — what it really means and how you should judge your phone’s performance based on it.
If you’re not familiar with what entry-level and budget phones are, I’ve broken it down clearly in this video. Check it out when you’re done reading.
Why the Processor Matters
Let’s get one thing straight, the processor (or SoC) that a phone uses is the biggest indicator of its performance level. Simple and short. If the SoC of your phone is an entry level processor in 2025, then no matter how flashy the body or how hyped the marketing, that phone is low-end. Simple.
Entry-level SoCs are the weakest processors that are commercial available for smartphones to use. They are usually slow and can’t handle heavy apps, gaming, or multitasking properly. On top of that, they’re often paired with very little (2-3GB of) RAM — which just makes things worse.
But guess what? Most people still don’t understand this. Instead, they’ll fight online over brand names or assume that just because a phone is new, it’s a “machine”. 😅
One time, I got plenty of DMs about the Redmi A2 after I reviewed it. People were complaining, expecting more. And now history is repeating itself with the Redmi A5.
Each time, I have to explain: “Sir/Ma, you bought a low-end device… and you’re expecting high-end performance? In what world?” Let’s be real. That’s not how this works.
What Should We Call Entry-Level in 2025?
In years past, we had some familiar names in this space: MT6739, Helio A22, G25, Snapdragon 439, Exynos 850, and friends. Even some older “budget” chips like Snapdragon 460 or Helio G80.
But all of them — and I mean all — have overstayed their welcome. It’s 2025, and it’s time to move on. Let’s refresh our standards.
I’m going to draw the line today and show you exactly what I consider entry level and budget by today’s standards.
🔴 Entry Level Processors (2025 Standard)
An entry level processor in 2025 means you’re getting the lowest level of performance that can still technically run Android decently. If your phone has any of these chips, sorry my friend, you’re not rocking a performance beast.
Here’s the updated list:
| Processor Name | Alias |
|---|---|
| Unisoc T7255 | (Rebranded T616) |
| Unisoc T7250 | (Formerly T615) |
| Helio G91 | G85 with 108MP |
| Helio G88 | G85 with 64MP |
| Helio G85 | |
| Helio G81 | |
| Snapdragon 6s 4G Gen 1 | Snapdragon 662 |
| Helio G80 | |
| Unisoc T610 | |
| Unisoc T7200 | (T606) |
| Exynos 850 | |
| JLQ JR510 | |
| Helio G50 |
If you’re using any of the above, you’re on entry level. That’s not a bad thing if you know what you’re getting into. But expecting flagship performance from these? Nah.
(And if you’re still using the Unisoc T603 now known as T7100… 👀 May the odds be in your favor.)
🟠 Budget Level Processors (2025 Standard)
These chips are a notch above. They can run full Android quite well and even do a bit of multitasking, light gaming, and content creation — if you’re gentle.
| Processor Name |
|---|
| Snapdragon 720G |
| Helio G90T |
| Snapdragon 480 |
| Snapdragon 685 |
| Snapdragon 680 |
| Unisoc T7280 (T620) |
| Unisoc T618 |
They’re no longer mid-range (don’t let the G90T nostalgia fool you), but they’ll get the job done with fewer complaints — as long as you’re not trying to edit videos on CapCut for two hours. The Helio G99, G96 and co only barely escaped being put in here, but it won’t be long now till they’re considered to be budget and subsequently entry level.
So, What’s the Takeaway?
The next time you’re buying a phone, don’t be swayed by camera megapixels, big batteries, or shiny marketing. Check the processor. If it’s one of those on the entry level processor list, adjust your expectations accordingly. Don’t expect magic.
And please, can we retire the Helio G25s, Exynos 850s, Snapdragon 439s, and co of this world already? They’ve done their time.
If you agree with this new standard, fantastic. If you don’t, let’s discuss — maybe you have a different view. But this, right here, should be the most honest and practical breakdown of what counts as an entry level processor in 2025.
Let’s raise the bar, people.
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