HiSilicon Kirin 658

A Comprehensive Overview of the HiSilicon Kirin 658 SoC

The HiSilicon Kirin 658 is a mobile system on chip (SoC) that has garnered attention for its blend of performance, efficiency, and integrated features. Designed primarily for mid-range devices, it offers a balanced combination of processing power and energy efficiency. In this article, we'll explore the key aspects of the Kirin 658, including its architecture, real-world performance, integrated modules, competitive positioning, usage scenarios, and more.

1. Architecture and Process Technology

The Kirin 658 is built on a 16nm FinFET process technology, which is a significant advancement over previous generations. This technology allows for better power efficiency and thermal management, enabling the chip to deliver high performance without excessive heat generation.

CPU Configuration

The Kirin 658 features an octa-core CPU architecture, comprising eight Cortex-A53 cores. These cores are divided into two clusters:

- Performance Cores: 4 x Cortex-A53 running at 2.35 GHz

- Efficiency Cores: 4 x Cortex-A53 running at 1.7 GHz

This big.LITTLE configuration allows the Kirin 658 to dynamically adjust its performance based on the task at hand, ensuring an optimal balance between power consumption and processing power.

GPU

For graphics processing, the Kirin 658 is equipped with the Mali-T830 MP2 GPU. This GPU is designed to handle modern gaming and multimedia applications, offering decent performance for 3D graphics rendering and video playback. With a maximum frequency of 900 MHz, the Mali-T830 provides a smooth and immersive experience for gamers and media consumers alike.

2. Real-World Performance

Gaming

When it comes to gaming, the Kirin 658 holds its ground reasonably well in the mid-range segment. Titles like PUBG Mobile and Asphalt 9 can run smoothly at medium settings. The combination of the powerful Cortex-A53 cores and the Mali-T830 GPU ensures that frame rates remain stable, providing an enjoyable gaming experience.

Multimedia

For multimedia consumption, the Kirin 658 excels. It supports 4K video playback and offers features like HDR decoding, making it a great choice for watching movies and TV shows on compatible devices. The GPU's capabilities enhance the overall visual experience, allowing for vibrant colors and smooth motion.

AI Applications

The Kirin 658 doesn't come with a dedicated AI processing unit (NPU), but it can still handle basic AI tasks efficiently. Features like facial recognition and scene detection in photography apps work well, although more demanding AI applications might push the limits of its performance.

Power Consumption and Thermal Management

One of the standout features of the Kirin 658 is its energy efficiency. The 16nm process technology helps to reduce power consumption, allowing devices to achieve longer battery life. Furthermore, the big.LITTLE architecture ensures that power is conserved during less demanding tasks, as the efficiency cores can take over when high performance is not necessary. Thermal management is also impressive, with minimal heat generation during extended usage, which is crucial for maintaining device comfort.

3. Integrated Modules

Modem Capabilities

The Kirin 658 includes an integrated LTE modem, providing support for 4G connectivity. It supports up to Cat 6 LTE, allowing for download speeds of up to 300 Mbps and upload speeds of up to 50 Mbps. This makes it suitable for streaming media and online gaming, ensuring a reliable connection.

Wireless Connectivity

In terms of wireless connectivity, the Kirin 658 supports dual-band Wi-Fi (2.4GHz and 5GHz) and Bluetooth 4.2. This allows for faster data transfers and more stable connections with peripheral devices. The chip also supports GPS, GLONASS, and BeiDou, ensuring accurate location tracking for various applications.

4. Comparison with Competitors

When comparing the Kirin 658 with other SoCs in the market, it stands out in the mid-range category. In comparison with its predecessor, the Kirin 650, the Kirin 658 offers improved clock speeds, better GPU performance, and enhanced power efficiency.

Against competitors like the Qualcomm Snapdragon 625 and MediaTek Helio P20, the Kirin 658 performs similarly, with slightly better graphics performance due to its Mali-T830 GPU. However, the Snapdragon 625 often edges out in terms of overall efficiency and heat management, particularly in extreme usage scenarios.

5. Usage Scenarios

Gaming

For gamers, the Kirin 658 offers a solid experience but is best suited for casual gaming. While it can handle demanding titles, users seeking high frame rates in ultra settings may want to consider higher-end SoCs.

Everyday Tasks

For everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, and video streaming, the Kirin 658 excels. Its efficient architecture ensures smooth multitasking, while the integrated modem provides reliable connectivity.

Advanced Photography and Videography

In terms of photography and videography, the Kirin 658 supports advanced camera features, such as dual-camera setups and fast autofocus. It can handle 16MP cameras efficiently, making it a good choice for mid-range smartphones aimed at photography enthusiasts.

6. Pros and Cons of the Kirin 658

Pros

- Energy Efficiency: The 16nm process technology and big.LITTLE architecture result in excellent power management.

- Decent Performance: With an octa-core configuration and Mali-T830 GPU, it handles a variety of tasks well.

- Integrated Connectivity: The built-in LTE modem and support for various wireless standards enhance the user experience.

Cons

- Limited AI Processing: Lacks a dedicated NPU, which restricts performance in more demanding AI applications.

- Gaming Limitations: While capable, it is not designed for high-end gaming; performance can drop in demanding scenarios.

- Mid-Range Status: As a mid-range SoC, it does not compete with flagship processors in terms of raw power.

7. Practical Tips for Choosing Devices Based on Kirin 658

When considering a smartphone that utilizes the Kirin 658, keep the following in mind:

- Battery Life: Look for devices with larger battery capacities, as this SoC is designed to optimize energy usage.

- Camera Features: If photography is a priority, check for devices that highlight camera capabilities, as the Kirin 658 can support advanced features.

- Software Optimization: Ensure that the device’s software is optimized for the Kirin 658 to fully utilize its capabilities.

- Price Range: The Kirin 658 is often found in mid-range smartphones, so ensure that the device offers good value for its price.

Common Devices Utilizing Kirin 658

Many Huawei and Honor smartphones feature the Kirin 658, such as the Huawei P10 Lite and Honor 8 Lite. These devices provide a good balance of performance, camera capabilities, and battery life.

8. Final Verdict: Who is the Kirin 658 For?

The HiSilicon Kirin 658 is an excellent choice for users who prioritize energy efficiency and decent performance in their mid-range smartphones. It is ideal for everyday tasks, casual gaming, and multimedia consumption. While it may not satisfy the needs of hardcore gamers or those seeking the latest AI features, it offers a well-rounded experience for most users.

In conclusion, the Kirin 658 is a capable SoC that provides a solid foundation for mid-range devices, making it a reliable choice for users looking for performance without breaking the bank. Its balance of features, efficiency, and performance makes it suitable for a wide range of applications, ensuring that users can enjoy their smartphones to the fullest.