HiSilicon Kirin 659

HiSilicon Kirin 659: An In-Depth Analysis of a Mobile Processor

The HiSilicon Kirin 659 is a mobile system on a chip (SoC) that has made its mark in the competitive landscape of smartphone processors. Released in 2017, it has been utilized in various mid-range devices, providing a balance of performance and efficiency. In this article, we will delve into the architecture, performance, connectivity options, comparisons with competitors, usage scenarios, pros and cons, practical tips for consumers, and ultimately, who this processor is best suited for.

1. Architecture and Process Technology

Core Configuration

The Kirin 659 features a big.LITTLE architecture, consisting of a total of eight cores. It utilizes four high-performance Cortex-A53 cores clocked at 2.36 GHz, paired with four power-efficient Cortex-A53 cores operating at 1.7 GHz. This combination allows the Kirin 659 to effectively manage tasks by utilizing the more powerful cores for demanding applications while relegating less intensive tasks to the lower clocked cores.

Process Technology

Manufactured using a 16nm FinFET technology, the Kirin 659 finds itself in a competitive position regarding power efficiency and heat management. The smaller transistor size not only enhances performance but also reduces power consumption compared to older manufacturing processes.

GPU Specifications

For graphical tasks, the Kirin 659 is equipped with the Mali-T830 MP2 GPU. This GPU is capable of handling moderate gaming and multimedia tasks effectively. With its dual-core configuration, it supports various graphical features, enabling decent performance in games and visual applications without excessive power draw.

2. Performance in Real-World Tasks

Gaming

When it comes to gaming, the Kirin 659 can handle most titles available on the Google Play Store. While it may not be able to run high-end games at maximum settings, it performs adequately for casual gaming experiences. Titles like "PUBG Mobile" or "Asphalt 9" can be played on lower settings with reasonable frame rates. The GPU’s support for Vulkan API also enhances the gaming experience by providing better graphics rendering and reduced latency.

Multimedia

The Kirin 659 shines in multimedia consumption. With its ability to handle Full HD displays, it provides a pleasant experience for video streaming and photo editing. The processor's efficient design ensures smooth playback of HD videos, and its image processing capabilities allow for decent photo editing performance.

AI Applications

Although the Kirin 659 does not have dedicated AI hardware, its architecture is capable of performing basic AI tasks, such as facial recognition and image enhancement. However, for more demanding AI applications, users may notice limitations compared to newer SoCs that feature dedicated neural processing units (NPUs).

Power Consumption and Thermal Management

One of the standout features of the Kirin 659 is its power efficiency. The 16nm process technology allows the SoC to maintain low power consumption even under load. This results in longer battery life, which is critical for users who rely on their smartphones throughout the day. Additionally, the thermal management is well-tuned, preventing overheating during prolonged usage.

3. Integrated Modules

Connectivity

The Kirin 659 comes with an integrated LTE modem that supports Cat 12 download speeds and Cat 13 upload speeds, making it suitable for 4G connectivity. The modem also includes features like VoLTE and carrier aggregation, which enhance call quality and data speeds.

Wi-Fi and Bluetooth

The SoC supports Wi-Fi 802.11ac, allowing for fast wireless internet connections. It also features Bluetooth 4.2, which provides compatibility with various wireless peripherals. While these standards are not cutting-edge by today’s standards, they are sufficient for most users’ needs.

Satellite Systems

For navigation, the Kirin 659 supports GPS, GLONASS, and BeiDou, ensuring good accuracy and reliability for location-based services. This feature is particularly useful for users who rely on their smartphones for navigation.

4. Comparison with Competitors

Previous Generations

When comparing the Kirin 659 to its predecessor, the Kirin 658, the improvements in clock speed and power efficiency are notable. The Kirin 659 offers a higher CPU clock speed and better thermal management, making it a more capable processor for modern tasks.

Other SoCs on the Market

In the mid-range segment, the Kirin 659 competes with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 625 and MediaTek's Helio P20. While the Kirin 659 performs similarly to the Snapdragon 625 in everyday tasks, its GPU performance is slightly superior, providing better gaming capabilities.

5. Usage Scenarios

Gaming

As mentioned earlier, the Kirin 659 can handle casual gaming quite well. It is ideal for users who enjoy playing mobile games regularly but do not require the latest flagship performance.

Everyday Tasks

For everyday tasks such as browsing, social media, and messaging, the Kirin 659 is more than capable. Users will find that it handles multitasking efficiently, thanks to its eight-core configuration.

Advanced Photography and Videography

While the Kirin 659 can support advanced camera features such as dual-camera setups and HDR photography, it is limited in processing heavy computational photography tasks compared to newer SoCs with dedicated image processing capabilities.

6. Pros and Cons of the Kirin 659

Pros

- Power Efficiency: The 16nm manufacturing process results in lower power consumption and improved battery life.

- Adequate Performance: The combination of high and low-power cores allows for a balanced performance, suitable for most tasks.

- Good Multimedia Capabilities: The SoC handles HD video playback and photo editing competently.

Cons

- Limited Gaming Performance: While it can handle casual games, it struggles with demanding titles at higher settings.

- Lack of AI Features: Compared to newer processors, the Kirin 659 lacks dedicated AI capabilities.

- Older Connectivity Standards: While adequate, the Wi-Fi and Bluetooth standards are not the latest available.

7. Practical Tips for Consumers

When considering a smartphone powered by the Kirin 659, here are some practical tips:

- Check the Device's RAM: The performance of the Kirin 659 can be significantly influenced by the amount of RAM in the device. Aim for at least 4GB for a smoother experience.

- Look for Good Cooling Solutions: Since the processor can heat up during intensive tasks, opting for devices with good thermal management can enhance performance.

- Consider Usage Needs: If you're a casual user who primarily uses your phone for social media and streaming, the Kirin 659 is a solid choice. However, for gaming enthusiasts or heavy multitaskers, consider looking at newer SoCs.

Common Devices Featuring Kirin 659

The Kirin 659 has been used in various smartphones, including models from Huawei and Honor, such as the Huawei P10 Lite and Honor 9 Lite. These devices offer a good balance of performance and affordability.

8. Final Verdict: Who Is This Processor For?

The HiSilicon Kirin 659 is well-suited for users who prioritize a balance of performance and efficiency in a mid-range smartphone. It excels in everyday tasks, multimedia consumption, and casual gaming, making it a great choice for students, casual gamers, and professionals who need a reliable smartphone without breaking the bank.

While it lacks the power of flagship processors and advanced AI capabilities, the Kirin 659 offers a compelling package for those who do not require the absolute latest technology. Its power efficiency ensures that users can enjoy longer battery life, making it a practical option for everyday use.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a smartphone that delivers solid performance without the premium price tag, devices powered by the Kirin 659 could be an excellent addition to your tech arsenal.