Google’s upcoming Tensor G5, set to power the Pixel 10 series (including the Pixel 10 Pro Fold), has surfaced in new benchmarks—showing a 36% performance boost over the Tensor G4. While the switch to TSMC’s 3nm process delivers noticeable gains, the chip still lags behind rivals like Snapdragon 8 Elite and Apple’s A18.
Key Takeaways from the Tensor G5 Leak
1. Performance: A Big Leap, But Not Enough
- Single-core: 2,276 (vs. Tensor G4’s ~1,670).
- Multi-core: 6,175 (vs. Tensor G4’s ~4,540).
- 36% faster than Tensor G4, thanks to TSMC’s 3nm tech.
- Still slower than Snapdragon 8 Gen 3—let alone next-gen 8 Elite Gen 2 and Dimensity 9500.
2. CPU & Manufacturing Upgrades
- 1+5+2 core layout (one high-performance Cortex-X5, five efficiency cores, two ultra-efficiency cores).
- TSMC’s 3nm process (vs. Samsung’s 4nm in Tensor G4) improves efficiency and performance.
- 2026’s Tensor G6 will reportedly use TSMC’s 2nm, closing the gap further.
3. Pixel 10 Pro Fold Specs
- 16GB RAM (a first for Pixel phones).
- Android 16 out of the box.
- Foldable form factor with Tensor G5 optimization.
How Does It Compare to the Competition?
| Chipset | Single-Core | Multi-Core | Manufacturing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tensor G5 | 2,276 | 6,175 | TSMC 3nm |
| Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | ~2,300 | ~7,500 | TSMC 4nm |
| A18 Pro (est.) | ~3,000+ | ~8,000+ | TSMC 3nm |
| Dimensity 9400 | ~2,400 | ~7,800 | TSMC 3nm |
Verdict: Tensor G5 is Google’s fastest chip yet, but still a generation behind Apple, Qualcomm, and MediaTek.
Google’s Strategy: Benchmarks vs. Real-World Experience
- Google’s focus isn’t raw power—Pixel phones prioritize AI, camera processing, and software optimization.
- Tensor G4 was never about “breaking records” (per Google’s Soniya Jobanputra).
- Pixel 10’s success depends on:
- AI features (Gemini Nano integration).
- Camera improvements (computational photography).
- Battery efficiency (TSMC’s 3nm should help).
Should You Wait for the Pixel 10?
Worth it if:
- You want Google’s best performance yet (+36% over Tensor G4).
- Foldable Pixel (Pro Fold) excites you.
- AI features like Gemini-powered assistants matter more than raw speed.
Wait for discounts if:
- You prioritize peak performance (Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 2 / Dimensity 9500 will be faster).
- Early adopters may pay a premium before price drops.
Final Thoughts
The Tensor G5 is Google’s biggest generational leap, but it’s still playing catch-up. If AI and Pixel-exclusive features matter more than benchmark dominance, the Pixel 10 series could still impress. However, power users may want to see how it stacks against 2026’s flagships before committing.
Expected Launch: Fall 2026 (with Android 16).
