What are the differences between Android RK3568 and A40 motherboards, and how should you choose?

What are the differences between Android RK3568 and A40 motherboards, and how should you choose?

The core difference between RK3568 and A40 motherboards lies in their performance positioning and applicable scenarios: the RK3568 uses a newer core, offering stronger overall performance and is suitable for video processing and AI applications; the A40 (usually referring to A40i) has advantages in cost, interface compatibility, and industrial stability.

To give you a more intuitive understanding of the differences, I have compared the core parameters of the two platforms.

Rockchip RK3568 vs. Allwinner A40i Core Parameter Comparison

CPU
· RK3568: 4x Cortex-A55 @ 2.0GHz
· A40i: 4x Cortex-A7 @ 1.2GHz

GPU
· RK3568: Mali-G52
· A40i: Mali-400MP2

NPU / AI Computing Power

· RK3568: Integrated 0.8 TOPS NPU
· A40i: No integrated NPU

Video Encoding/Decoding

· RK3568: Decoding: 4K@60fps (H.265/H.264); Encoding: 1080p@60fps (H.265/H.264)
· A40i: Decoding: 1080p@60fps (H.265/H.264); Encoding: 1080p H.264

Memory Support
· RK3568: DDR3/4, LPDDR3/4/4X, some support ECC
· A40i: DDR3

Typical Interface Capabilities

· RK3568: Dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, PCIe 3.0, multiple SATA ports, USB 3.0, supports triple-screen display

· A40i: Single or dual Gigabit Ethernet ports, SATA, multiple UARTs (e.g., 8-channel), multiple TVIN/TVOUT (analog video input/output)

Typical Application Scenarios

· RK3568: Video conferencing machines, NVRs, commercial displays, edge computing gateways

· A40i: Industrial HMIs, digital signage, self-service terminals, vehicle-mounted equipment

Key Advantages

· RK3568: Stronger overall computing power, outstanding video processing and AI capabilities, more modern interface expandability

· A40i: High cost-performance ratio, peripheral interfaces (such as UART and TV interfaces) better suited to traditional industrial needs, and a wide operating temperature range (industrial grade -40℃ ~ +85℃)

How to Choose Based on Needs？

You can decide based on the project's focus:

· For those seeking strong overall performance, 4K video processing, or AI capabilities: Choose the RK3568 platform. Its more powerful CPU, GPU, and integrated NPU can better handle tasks such as intelligent security and high-definition video analysis.

· For those prioritizing cost control, requiring rich industrial interfaces, or a wide operating temperature environment: The A40i platform is a more economical and practical choice. Its numerous serial ports and specific video interfaces are ideal for connecting industrial equipment, and the overall solution cost is usually lower.

If you can tell me the specific type of product you plan to develop (e.g., smart terminal, industrial control equipment, or commercial display equipment), I can provide you with a more specific analysis.