For starters, MediaTek’s new Dimensity 8450 chipset is based on TSMC’s second-generation 4nm node, just like its predecessor, Dimensity 8400. On top of that, it features the same octa-core configuration: 1x Cortex-X4 core clocked at 3.25 GHz, 3x Cortex-A720 cores clocked at 3.0 GHz, and 4x Cortex-A520 cores clocked at 2.1GHz.
Additionally, the chipset uses the same Mali-G720 MC7 GPU (graphics processing unit), which is clocked at 1300 MHz. The only difference is that the Dimensity 8450 received some gaming and ISP optimizations, according to MediaTek.
This chipset enables users to explore creativity through agentic AI and enhanced imaging, while also elevating mobile gaming experiences. Featuring our All Big Core architecture, which is also present in our flagship models, we prove that outstanding performance and power efficiency can go hand in hand, so consumers no longer have to compromise.
– Dr. Yenchi Lee, General Manager of MediaTek’s Wireless Communications Business Unit, June 2025.
One of the gaming-oriented boosts Dimensity 8450 got is StarSpeed Engine, a powerful GPU technology that promises to further enhance real-world gaming. Besides that, MediaTek says the IPS has been improved with live-stream optimizations, but that’s about it.
It’s also important to mention that MediaTek claims the Dimensity 8450 features “the most powerful generative AI in its class.”
Another interesting improvement over the previous generation Dimensity chipset is the addition of a power saving feature: MediaTek UltraSave 3.0+. The latter is supposed to offer greater 5G power efficiency compared to Dimensity 8400.
- CPU: 8 x ARM Cortex-A725 cores (1x 1MB L2 + 3x 512KB L2 + 4x 256KB L2), 6MB L3 cache + 5MB SLC
- GPU: Arm Mali-G720 MC7
- AI: MediaTek NPU 880 (Generative AI, Agentic AI Engine)
- Display: WQHD+ up to 144Hz, dual screen support
- Camera: Up to 320MP sensor, Imagiq 1080 ISP with in-sensor zoom (QPD remozaic)
- Connectivity: 5G Sub-6GHz modem, 3CC Carrier Aggregation, up to 5.17 Gbps, Wi-Fi 6E (2T2R), Bluetooth 5.4
- Memory: LPDDR5X RAM up to 8533 Mbps
- Storage: UFS 4.0 + MCQ
- Video: 4K60 HDR (HLG) capture with Dual EIS
- Power: UltraSave 3.0+ power efficiency
MediaTek’s new chipset will most likely be included in a bunch of mid-range smartphones in the next coming months. However, considering how quickly new chipsets are launched, smartphone makers will move to the next new thing in a jiffy. The new Dimensity 8450 won’t have a long life, but it’s a small step toward MediaTek’s next big thing.
The first phones equipped with MediaTek’s Dimensity 8450 chipset have already been announced. Reno 14 Pro should make its debut in India very soon, followed by a K series model.
