Processor & Android Version Comparison Chart

SmartDrive vs. (PowerDrive S8): What's the Difference?

The Complete Guide to Android 13, Android 14, and Android 15 Multimedia Systems

More and more car owners are replacing their original car radio with a modern Android Multimedia System with features such as wireless CarPlay, Android Auto, QLED screens, DSP sound and much more.
However, when choosing a system you will often come across two important terms:

SmartDrive (4-Core)
PowerDrive S8 (8-Core)

But what exactly do these terms mean? What's the difference between the two versions? And how do Android 13, Android 14, and Android 15 compare?

In this comprehensive blog we explain it completely and clearly.

What is SmartDrive? (4-Core)

SmartDrive is the 4-Core processor line , designed for reliable, stable everyday use.
It is the ideal choice for drivers who:

  • Want to use navigation

  • Use calling, WhatsApp, Spotify or YouTube Music

  • Want CarPlay or Android Auto

  • Want a smooth system without extra heavy tasks

What characterizes SmartDrive 4-Core?

  • 4-Core CPU

  • 2 GB RAM

  • 32 GB storage

  • Low energy consumption

  • Suitable for standard use (navigation, calling, music)

  • Fast startup and stable performance

  • Sustainable and smart software (closed platform)

So SmartDrive is perfect for average users who want all the features without having to pay extra for extra power.

What is PowerDrive S8? (8-Core)

The Snapdragon/PowerDrive S8 is the premium 8-Core processor line , designed for maximum speed, power and stability.
This version is especially suitable for users who:

  • Want faster performance

  • Want to run heavy apps simultaneously

  • Want more power when multitasking

  • Expect an extra smooth CarPlay/Android Auto experience

  • Want faster camera images and better image processing

What characterizes the PowerDrive S8 8-Core?

  • 8-Core CPU

  • 2–4x faster performance than 4-Core

  • Faster app loading times

  • Better graphics processing

  • Stable multitasking without lag

  • Suitable for intensive daily use and future updates.

The 8-Core variant is therefore ideal for customers who want the best of the best , or want to modernise their car for a long period of time.

Difference between SmartDrive (4-Core) and PowerDrive S8 (8-Core)

Here's a quick comparison:

Feature SmartDrive 4-Core PowerDrive S8 8-Core
Processor 4-Core 8-Core
Speed Good Excellent (up to 4x faster)
Multitasking Basic Very smooth
CarPlay/Android Auto Very good Even faster & smoother
Startup time ± 10-15 seconds ± 5 seconds
Heavy apps at the same time Limited Very suitable
Suitable for Daily normal use Intensive use, top quality
Lifespan Long Even longer (stronger chip)
Price range Budget friendly Premium

Android 13, Android 14, and Android 15 – What's the Difference?

Below is a clear overview so customers understand what each version offers.

Differences Android 13 vs Android 14 vs Android 15

Function Android 13 Android 14 Android 15
Speed Moderate Faster & more stable Ultra fast
Safety Basic Greatly improved Highest security
Stability Moderate Very good (closed platform) Best stability so far
Interface Modern Faster & smoother Even tighter and more professional
Memory management Basic Improved (less glitches) Smart memory management
App compatibility Good Very high High + next-gen apps
Camera processing Standard Switch faster Ultra-fast image processing
CarPlay/AA Good Faster & stable Ultra smooth
System Updates Less frequently Improved Most future-oriented
Suitable for Basic systems Modern systems High-end systems

Which version should you choose?

Android 13 – Compatible with:

  • Basic users

  • Standard multimedia systems

  • Those who don't need extra speed

Android 14 – The best price/quality choice

  • Most popular version

  • Faster, more stable and safer

  • Ideal for everyday use

  • Perfect in combination with 4-Core and 8-Core systems

Android 15 – For those who want the best of the best

  • Maximum speed

  • High-end users

  • More future-oriented (most update support)

  • Very suitable in combination with 8-Core systems

Conclusion – Which one should you get?

Do you just want a modern infotainment system for navigation, calling, music and basic use?
→ SmartDrive 4-Core + Android 14

Want top quality, maximum power, and the smoothest experience?
→ PowerDrive S8 8-Core + Android 14 or Android 15

Do you want the most future-proof choice?
→ Android 14 or Android 15 (with 8-Core)