Differences Between MCU and SoC

A reader asked an interesting question: the difference between virtual MCU and virtual SoC. Essentially, this is the difference between MCU and SoC.We have introduced MCU in several of our past contents, please refer to our previous articles.Next, let’s briefly discuss the differences between MCU and SoC.

System on Chip (SoC) is a relatively new term with many interpretations and definitions that change over time, whereas the term Microcontroller Unit (MCU) has a clear definition and scope, refined from decades of practical usage. These two terms are often used interchangeably in documents, but most industry veterans believe they are not synonymous. They are both part of the larger embedded systems market, sharing many similarities, but it is important to understand the scope and usage of SoC and MCU.

1. Microcontroller Unit (MCU): A microcontroller is a small computer on a single integrated circuit (IC) that includes a processor core, memory, programmable input/output (I/O) peripherals, timers, counters, etc. It provides only minimal memory, interfaces, and processing power. The peripherals included in a microcontroller are not as specific compared to SoC packages. MCUs are typically used in small embedded control systems or control applications, sometimes abbreviated as µC, uC, or MCU.

2. System on Chip (SoC): SoC is a less clear term. It is a single-chip package that can perform all functions that previously required multiple chips. SoC typically packages one or more central processing units, memory, microcontrollers, DSPs, accelerators, and supporting hardware; however, it does not adhere to any standards regarding the circuits it contains. SoCs are suitable for applications that are too complex for a single MCU to handle. An SoC may contain multiple microcontrollers. It is more like a complete computer system on a single chip, capable of executing complex tasks and requiring more resources. Sometimes abbreviated as SoC or SOC.

MCU	SoC
Includes single chip and more specific peripherals	Includes single chip and more dedicated peripherals
Fewer and more limited peripherals	Packs multiple peripherals
Suitable for lower complexity small control applications	Suitable for higher demand, more complex applications
Cost is usually lower than SoC	Cost is higher than MCU
Does not contain an operating system	Contains an operating system
Lower power consumption	Higher power consumption, varies greatly between applications
Achieves value by minimizing cost	Achieves value by maximizing functionality
Very small memory, usually in KB	Includes more memory, often in MB or GB
External storage capacity ranges from KB to MB through flash or EEPROM	External storage capacity ranges from MB to TB through flash, SSD, or HDD
Computing widths of 4-bit, 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit	Computing widths of 16-bit, 32-bit, and 64-bit
Applications include body controllers, programmable thermostats, home appliances, industrial instruments	Applications include smartphones, network routers, automotive cockpits, game console emulators
Products include TI, NXP, Renesas, GigaDevice, SemiDrive, etc.	Products include Qualcomm, Horizon, MediaTek, etc.

These are the main differences between MCU and SoC.If you have more questions, we offer related consulting services, feel free to contact us for more information.

Differences Between MCU and SoC

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