Raspberry Pi 5 B (Broadcom BCM2712) vs Google Tensor

The Google Tensor, introduced in late 2021, is a System-on-a-Chip (SoC) for Google's Pixel smartphones.

It targets users seeking high mobile performance, especially for AI applications and complex smartphone functions. The Broadcom BCM2712 is the processor of the Raspberry Pi 5 B, a single-board computer unveiled in late 2023. It is aimed at hobbyists, educational institutions, and developers for cost-effective, versatile projects and embedded systems.

The Google Tensor (architecture codename G1) is manufactured using ARM's modern 5 nm fabrication process and features 8 MB of Level-2 cache. It shows significantly over 10 percent higher single-core and multi-core performance in benchmarks compared to the Broadcom BCM2712. The Broadcom BCM2712 (architecture codename Cortex-A76) is manufactured using Broadcom's 16 nm process, with 2 MB of Level-2 and 2 MB of Level-3 cache.

For gaming, the Google Tensor, with its ARM Mali-G78 MP20 graphics unit and 53 GB/s memory bandwidth, is more powerful for demanding mobile games. The Broadcom BCM2712, with Broadcom VideoCore VII and 17 GB/s, is intended for lighter games, emulations, and multimedia. Both are designed for energy efficiency.

The Google Tensor is only available in premium smartphones, while the Broadcom BCM2712, as part of the Raspberry Pi 5 B, offers excellent value for money.