What is the difference between Amlogic S905X5M and Amlogic S905X4?
The contest between Amlogic S905X5M and Amlogic S905X4 represents a defining junction in media SoC evolution—where raw hardware meets intelligent processing, and where future readiness trumps legacy compatibility.
CPU Architecture and Process Node — Speed Meets Efficiency
The S905X4 sports a quad-core Cortex-A55 chip clocked up to 2.0 GHz, fabricated on a 12 nm node—reliable and energy-efficient for mainstream streaming and playback tasks. In contrast, the S905X5M raises the bar: same quad-core Cortex-A55 design but with a boosted clock reaching 2.5 GHz, and built on a refined 6 nm process. This shift not only delivers superior sustained performance but also better thermal and power efficiency.
GPU and Graphics — Smarter, Smoother HDR UIs
Graphics performance takes a quantum leap: the S905X5M features the ARM Mali-G310 V2 GPU, delivering up to three times the performance of the Mali-G31 MP2 found in the S905X4. The result? Smoother, more responsive HDR interfaces—especially vital in media boxes and signage devices.
AI Acceleration — Next-Level Video Upscaling
Perhaps the most compelling upgrade is the inline AI-SR (AISR2) neural network accelerator integrated into the S905X5M. Through AI-super-resolution, lower-resolution content is upscaled with enhanced clarity and sharpness—ideal for digital signage or streaming platforms aiming for near-4K or even 8K visual quality. The S905X4 lacks any such capability.
Video Codec and Output Capabilities
Both chips handle AV1 and H.265 decoding up to 4Kp60, but the S905X5M adds AV1 higher-frame-rate support (4Kp75) and advanced HDMI 2.1 features—such as QMS, VRR, QFT, and SBTM—enabling fast media switching and optimized HDR output. Meanwhile, video encoding support diverges: the S905X4 can handle 1080p60 H.265, whereas the S905X5M limits encoding to 1080p30 H.264—a trade-off worth noting for devices that record or transcode.
Memory, Storage, and Connectivity
The S905X5M supports newer DDR4/LPDDR4 memory (16/32-bit, up to 4 GB DDR3200), offering better bandwidth and efficiency over the S905X4’s DDR3/LPDDR3 support. On the storage front, S905X5M brings eMMC 5.2 with hardware queuing and inline encryption, plus SLC/QSPI NAND options—upgrades over the S905X4’s older interfaces.
Power Efficiency and Thermal Management
The process node shrink from 12 nm to 6 nm enables significantly better power efficiency. The S905X5M achieves higher clock speeds without proportionate power draw and heat—not just a performance boost but also a silent, cooler device experience.
Summary Table — At a Glance
| Feature Area | Amlogic S905X4 | Amlogic S905X5M |
|---|---|---|
| CPU | Quad-core Cortex-A55 @ 2.0 GHz, 12 nm | Same core @ 2.5 GHz, 6 nm |
| GPU | ARM Mali-G31 MP2 | ARM Mali-G310 V2 (≈ 3× performance) |
| AI Engine | None | inline AI-SR (AISR2) |
| Video Decode | AV1, H.265 up to 4Kp60 | Same + 4Kp75, HDMI 2.1 enhancements |
| Video Encode | 1080p60 H.265 | 1080p30 H.264 |
| Memory Interface | DDR3/LPDDR3/4 | DDR4/LPDDR4 |
| Storage | eMMC 5.0, NAND, SD | eMMC 5.2 w/ HW CQ, SLC/QSPI NAND, SD |
| Power Efficiency | Baseline | Improved (6 nm node) |
Why SZTomato Supports Customization Based on S905X5M
As a forward-looking B2B specialist, SZTomato recognizes that devices built today must be future-ready. The S905X5M’s advanced GPU, AI-based upscaling, and superior media output capabilities make it the preferred choice for next-generation smart TVs, Android TV boxes, and digital signage solutions.
We offer custom firmware, tailored hardware integration, and OEM/ODM services compatible with the S905X5M platform—enabling your brand to ship devices that stand out in performance, image quality, and energy efficiency. If your product roadmap includes HDR interfaces, AI enhancements, or readiness for 8K streaming, the S905X5M path is not just smart—it’s necessary.
Closing Thoughts
The Amlogic S905X5M is more than a spec upgrade—it signals a shift toward an intelligent, high-performance media landscape. From CPU and GPU boosts to AI-enhanced image quality and superior output features, this chip unlocks new possibilities. SZTomato remains at your side—providing tailored support. Ready for the S905X5M future? Let’s build it together.
