Google’s Tensor G4 chip in the Pixel 9 series doesn’t deliver the top-of-the-line performance you would expect from a 2024 flagship. We’ve already seen this on the early benchmarks. Tensor G4 fails in benchmark against 2021 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
Now a new benchmark comparison reveals that the Tensor G4 struggles against both current and older flagship SoCs. It couldn’t even outperform the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, a chipset from 2021.
Independent reviewer Golden Reviewer compared the Tensor G4 to leading flagship chipsets in the demanding 3DMark Wild Life Extreme benchmark.
The results show the Tensor G4 edges out its predecessor, the Tensor G3, by just over 7%. While this points to some generational improvement, it’s a relatively small leap.
More concerning for some users is the Tensor G4’s inability to surpass the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1, a chipset released in 2021. In fact, the Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 holds a slight lead of about 2% in the benchmark. This performance gap against a three-old chip shows Google is clearly behind other SoCs in terms of performance.
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The disparity becomes even starker when compared to the current-gen Snapdragon 8 Gen 3. The latest Qualcomm offering boasts a score over 100% higher than the Tensor G4 in the same benchmark.
However, it’s important to remember that Google has already clarified its earlier statements regarding the focus of Tensor G4. The company is prioritizing AI capabilities over raw benchmark scores. The philosophy aligns with Pixel phones’ strengths in computational photography and on-device AI features.
Despite the lackluster benchmark results, there’s some good news. Google is reportedly planning to manufacture its 2025 Tensor chip using TSMC’s advanced 3nm process, shifting away from Samsung’s. This change could bring significant improvements in both performance and efficiency. We’ll continue to follow updates on the new chip.Tensor G4 fails in benchmark against 2021 Snapdragon 8 Gen 1
For now, if you’re considering the Pixel 9 series for demanding tasks or gaming, it’s worth exploring other options before making a decision.
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