MediaTek Helio G Series: Complete Guide (2026 Update)
MediaTek’s Helio G series changed the mobile gaming landscape when it launched back in 2020. The G90, G80, and G70 chipsets brought dedicated gaming optimizations to mid-range smartphones for the first time. While newer MediaTek Dimensity chips have taken the flagship crown, the Helio G series remains relevant in budget gaming phones even in 2026. This guide looks at the full family, its specs, and what each chip delivers.
MediaTek Helio G90 Series
The G90 series was the flagship gaming chip of its generation. It combined an octa-core CPU with Arm Cortex-A76 and Cortex-A55 cores running at up to 2.05GHz, paired with an Arm Mali-G76 MC4 GPU clocked at 800MHz. MediaTek’s exclusive HyperEngine technology handled smart networking, rapid touch response, and vivid visuals to keep gaming smooth even during intense sessions.
Key specs include support for up to 10GB of LPDDR4x RAM at 2133MHz, UFS 2.1 storage, 4K 30fps video encoding, dual 24MP+16MP or single 64MP cameras, and 4G LTE Category 12 with 3x carrier aggregation. The chip was built on a 12nm FinFET process, which was competitive for its era.
Phones like the Xiaomi Redmi Note 8 Pro and Realme 6 Pro launched with G90T variants, becoming popular gaming choices. In benchmarks, the G90T outperformed the Snapdragon 730G in GPU tasks, though it ran warmer under sustained loads.
MediaTek Helio G80
Positioned as an everyday gaming chip, the Helio G80 uses two Arm Cortex-A75 cores at 2GHz plus six Cortex-A55 efficiency cores. Its Arm Mali-G52 MC2 GPU reaches 950MHz. This chip appeared in phones like the Realme Narzo 10 and Redmi Note 9 series, offering solid PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile performance at budget prices.
The G80 supports up to 8GB LPDDR4x RAM, 48MP cameras, eMMC 5.1 storage, and 4G LTE Category 7. Video playback handles 2K at 30fps and 1080p at 60fps. For its price bracket, the G80 delivered an excellent balance of power efficiency and gaming capability.
MediaTek Helio G70
The entry-level gaming chip in the family, the Helio G70 uses the same CPU architecture as the G80 but clocks its Mali-G52 GPU lower at 820MHz. It supports identical memory and camera features. The G70 powered devices like the Realme C3 and Nokia 5.3, making smooth gaming available even in sub-$150 phones.
All three chips share common strengths: HyperEngine game technology, AI camera features, and robust 4G connectivity. They were the foundation of MediaTek’s successful push into gaming-focused silicon before the Dimensity 5G series took over.
How the Helio G Series Compares Today (2026)
In 2026, the Helio G series has been superseded by Dimensity 7000 and 8000 series chips in the mid-range. However, the G85, G88, G95, and G99 variants continue production and ship in budget gaming phones under $200. These later G-series chips added 90Hz displays, better GPU clocks, and improved ISP support while keeping the same 12nm process. For very basic mobile gaming and daily use, they remain perfectly usable choices.
If you are shopping for a budget gaming phone today, check out our guide to the best games under 1GB to see what these chips can handle. For those considering a full refresh, our gaming PC build guide offers an alternative path for serious gaming on a budget. And if you prefer console-style gaming, take a look at our capture card recommendations for streaming your gameplay.
FAQ
Is MediaTek Helio G series good for gaming? Yes, especially for casual and mid-tier mobile games. The G90T can handle PUBG Mobile at smooth settings, while G80 and G70 are great for lighter titles.
Can Helio G90 run 5G? No, the Helio G90 series is 4G LTE only. MediaTek moved 5G support to its Dimensity lineup.
What is the latest Helio G chip? The Helio G99 (released 2022) is the most recent G-series chip, offering a 6nm process, 4G LTE, and 108MP camera support.
