Google is expected to unveil the Tensor G4 and three Pixel 9 models next week, and while there were rumors claiming that the upcoming SoC would be a minor upgrade over the Tensor G3, some improvements are still better than no improvements. However, a series of single-core and multi-core tests revealed that the Tensor G4 is not obtaining consistent results, and its performance varies depending on which Pixel 9 model it is running in. In fact, the latest comparison reveals that the base version is slower than the Pixel 8, and there could be a multitude of reasons for these skewed results.
Pixel 9 Pro featuring the Tensor G4, is only 5 percent faster than the Pixel 8 Pro’s Tensor G3
A compilation of Geekbench 6 single-core and multi-core results was posted by @DameTechChannel on X, showing how the Tensor G4’s performance varies based on which Pixel 9 is used. According to the figures below, the base Pixel 8 is faster than the Pixel 9 in multi-core performance, which is difficult to believe, but the results are in black and white. What is even more disappointing is seeing that the more expensive Pixel 9 Pro is only 5 percent faster than the Pixel 8 Pro in Geekbench 6’s multi-core run. Thankfully, it registers an 11 percent performance increase in the single-core test.
We witnessed this performance trend with the Tensor G4 before, during an AnTuTu benchmark leak, where Google’s top-end model, the Pixel 9 Pro XL, was 33 percent faster than the base Pixel 8. Now, we have isolated two reasons why Tensor G4 is behaving the way it is. The first reason could be that Geekbench 6 is yet to be updated for this chipset, which is why it could post mixed performance figures. Another reason is that the lack of an elaborate cooling solution on the Pixel 9 forces the SoC to thermal throttle, leading to worse performance than the base Pixel 8.
Google Pixel 9 Pro is showing an 11% performance improvement in single-core over the Pixel 8 Pro! As for Multi, we are seeing a 5% increase. As for the base Pixel 9, it is performing slower than the base Pixel 8 in Multi.
Pixel 8/8 Pro = Pic 1
Pixel 9 Pro = Pic 2
Pixel 9 = Pic 3 pic.twitter.com/8Muiw4Yz7C— Dame Tech (@DameTechChannel) August 7, 2024
The Pixel 9 Pro will likely sport a better cooling solution, with the possible existence of a vapor chamber, resulting in improved scores. Also, we must remind you that after Google announced the Pixel 8a, it was discovered that the company used a slower version of the Tensor G3. Similarly, the technology giant’s Tensor G4 could be mass produced in two variants; one that features FOWLP or ‘Fan out Wafer Level Packaging’ and one that does not. While Google may use the more advanced Tensor G4 in the more expensive Pixel 9 models, there is no way to confirm this unless we view a complete analysis of the chipset.
This can only be done after Google officially announces the Pixel 9 lineup next week. For the time being, we recommend readers treat these performance figures with a pinch of salt and we will be back with more updates.
News Source: @DameTechChannel
