Apple finally unveiled the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Pro models, laced with cool Apple Intelligence features. The iPhone 16 and 16 Plus models are powered by the new A18 chipset, while the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max feature the more powerful A18 Pro chipset. But what is the difference between A18 and A18 Pro? To answer your question, we have compared the A18 and A18 Pro considering their performance and efficiency. So without further ado, let’s get started.
A18 vs A18 Pro: Specs Comparison
| A18 | A18 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Six-core CPU (2+4) | Six-core CPU (2+4) |
| CPU Cores | 2x Performance cores 4x Efficiency cores | 2x Performance cores 4x Efficiency cores |
| Process Technology | TSMC’s 3nm process (N3E) | TSMC’s 3nm process (N3E) |
| GPU | Apple 5-core GPU Hardware-accelerated Ray Tracing | Apple 6-core GPU Hardware-accelerated Ray Tracing |
| Memory Support | LPDDR5X, up to 7500 MT/s | LPDDR5X, up to 7500 MT/s |
| Machine Learning and AI | 16-core Neural Engine; 35 TOPS | 16-core Neural Engine; 35 TOPS |
| Modem | Snapdragon X75 5G modem (likely) Up to 10 Gbps Peak Download Up to 3.5 Gbps Peak Upload | Snapdragon X75 5G modem (likely) Up to 10 Gbps Peak Download Up to 3.5 Gbps Peak Upload |
| Connectivity | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3 | Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3 |
A18 vs A18 Pro: CPU Performance
The new A18 chipset for iPhone 16 and 16 Plus appears to be a binned version of the more powerful A18 Pro. Both chipsets are manufactured on TSMC’s second-gen 3nm (N3E) process node and pack six CPU cores, including 2x performance cores and 4x efficiency cores. While the exact CPU frequency of the A18 and A18 Pro hasn’t been disclosed, there's speculation that Apple may have downclocked the A18.
Apple chose not to directly compare the A18 chipset with the A18 Pro but instead measured its performance against the older A16 Bionic. Impressively, the A18 chipset is 30% faster than the A16 Bionic. Analyzing the numbers suggests that the A18 approximates A18 Pro’s CPU performance; however, the A18 Pro is said to have a larger cache, which could result in a performance difference of about 5 – 10%.
Furthermore, the A18 chipset is more energy-efficient, consuming 30% less power than the A16 Bionic. This efficiency is a crucial factor for users seeking longer battery life without sacrificing performance.
A18 vs A18 Pro: GPU Capabilities
When it comes to graphics performance, the A18 features a 5-core GPU, while the A18 Pro is equipped with a 6-core GPU. Both chipsets support hardware-accelerated Ray Tracing, but the Pro model is expected to offer slightly superior graphics performance due to its additional core.
Comparatively, the A18 chipset delivers a remarkable 40% increase in graphics performance over the A16 Bionic, making it a substantial upgrade. Additionally, it consumes 35% less power, enhancing overall efficiency.
Both the A18 and A18 Pro have access to 17% faster LPDDR5X memory, allowing them to achieve better graphics performance. While the A18 GPU trails the 6-core GPU on the A18 Pro, it significantly outperforms the A16 Bionic and A17 Pro.
A18 vs A18 Pro: Neural Engine Features
The Neural Engine is identical across both the A18 and A18 Pro, featuring a 16-core design capable of performing up to 35 trillion operations per second (TOPS). This powerful engine, paired with faster memory, enables most Apple Intelligence features on the device.
Compared to the A16 Bionic’s Neural Engine, the A18 Pro boasts a 2x increase in speed for AI and machine learning tasks, marking a significant advancement in on-device AI capabilities.
A18 vs A18 Pro: Connectivity Options
Both the A18 and A18 Pro utilize the same 5G modem, likely the Qualcomm Snapdragon X75. This modem is built according to 3GPP Release 17 and Release 18 specifications, promising enhanced coverage and speed. Users can also benefit from Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.3 capabilities on both chipsets.
Key Takeaways
What You Will Learn
- The A18 chipset is a binned version of the A18 Pro, offering impressive performance improvements over the A16 Bionic.
- Both chipsets utilize TSMC’s advanced 3nm process technology, enhancing efficiency and performance.
- The A18 features a 5-core GPU, while the A18 Pro has a 6-core GPU, enabling better graphics performance in the Pro model.
- The Neural Engine in both models performs significantly better than previous generations, doubling AI performance in the A18 Pro.
- Connectivity options remain robust with both chipsets, including support for advanced 5G modems and Wi-Fi 7.
Final Thoughts
In summary, the A18 chipset is a slightly scaled-down version of the A18 Pro. Yet, it still outperforms the older A17 Pro and offers competitive graphics capabilities with its 5-core GPU. The inclusion of Ray Tracing technology and enhanced thermal management ensures that both models provide flagship-level performance.
Overall, I am truly impressed with the A18 and A18 Pro chipsets. Both deliver substantial advancements in performance and efficiency, making the new iPhone models compelling choices for both casual and power users.
