Google Tensor vs Apple A17 Pro

The Google Tensor is a processor developed by Google, primarily for its Pixel smartphones, whose G1 architecture is optimized for AI and machine learning.

It is manufactured using a 5 nm process and integrates an ARM Mali-G78 MP20 graphics unit. The Apple A17 Pro, internally known as Ibiza, is Apple's current high-end chip for iPhone Pro models, designed for peak performance and efficiency.

It is manufactured by Apple using the more advanced 3 nm process and features an internal graphics unit with 6 GPU cores as well as significantly larger caches (20 MB L2, 24 MB L3 compared to 8 MB L2 for the Google Tensor). In performance tests like Geekbench 6 and Cinebench R23, the Apple A17 Pro shows significantly higher single-core and multi-core performance, with values more than twice as high as the Google Tensor.

This indicates a significantly superior computing capacity. For gaming scenarios, the Apple A17 Pro offers better performance. Its 6 GPU cores, the 3 nm manufacturing process, and the larger caches enable smoother rendering of complex graphics and typically outperform the ARM Mali-G78 MP20 of the Google Tensor.

Exact TDP values are not publicly available. The Apple A17 Pro benefits from the 3 nm process, which enables higher energy efficiency at the same or higher performance compared to the 5 nm of the Google Tensor. Since these are solutions tightly integrated into end devices, separate market prices are not available, thus eliminating an isolated price-performance evaluation.

The Google Tensor is characterized by AI optimizations and deep integration into Google's ecosystem. The Apple A17 Pro delivers leading computing and graphics performance. For maximum performance and gaming, the Apple A17 Pro is the better choice. For AI-centric applications and the Google ecosystem, the Google Tensor is suitable.