RK3588 vs RK3568 vs RK3566: What’s the Difference?
— A Practical SoC Comparison Guide for Smart Devices & Industrial Applications
In the fast-evolving world of smart devices, IoT, industrial control, and edge computing, selecting the right processor is critical. Rockchip has released several powerful SoCs to address various performance and cost requirements. Among them, RK3588, RK3568, and RK3566 stand out as high-performance, mid-range, and cost-effective options.
This article will help you understand the key differences between RK3588, RK3568, and RK3566—covering CPU architecture, GPU, multimedia capabilities, interfaces, and ideal use cases. We’ll also show how Portworld leverages these platforms to deliver robust OEM/ODM solutions.
1. Product Positioning
| SoC Model | Positioning | Release Year | Target Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| RK3588 | Flagship Performance | 2022 | AI edge computing, multi-screen signage, 8K video |
| RK3568 | Versatile Mid-High End | 2021 | Industrial control, gateways, signage, HMI |
| RK3566 | Mid-Range, Power-Efficient | 2021 | Smart panels, tablets, IoT terminals, consumer apps |
2. Core Specification Comparison
| Feature | RK3588 | RK3568 | RK3566 |
|---|---|---|---|
| CPU Architecture | 4× Cortex-A76 + 4× Cortex-A55 (big.LITTLE) | 4× Cortex-A55 | 4× Cortex-A55 |
| Process | 8nm | 22nm | 22nm |
| Max Frequency | A76: 2.4GHz / A55: 1.8GHz | Up to 2.0GHz | Up to 1.8GHz |
| GPU | Mali-G610 MP4 | Mali-G52 MP2 | Mali-G52 MP2 |
| NPU | Yes, up to 6 TOPS | Optional (limited AI support) | Optional (basic AI tasks only) |
| Memory Support | LPDDR4x / LPDDR5 / DDR4 | DDR4 / LPDDR4 / LPDDR3 | Same as RK3568 |
| Storage | eMMC / UFS / NVMe / SATA | eMMC / SATA / SPI NAND/NOR | eMMC / SPI NAND/NOR |
| Video Decoding | 8K@60fps decode / 8K@30fps encode | 4K@60fps decode / 1080P encode | 4K@60fps decode / 1080P encode |
| Display Outputs | Up to 4 screens: HDMI 2.1, DP1.4, MIPI, etc. | Dual display: HDMI, LVDS, MIPI | Single/Dual display: LVDS, RGB, MIPI |
| Network Support | 2×2.5GbE + 1×GbE + optional Wi-Fi6 | Dual Gigabit LAN | Single Gigabit LAN |
| USB | USB 3.1 ×2 + USB 2.0 | USB 3.0 ×1 + USB 2.0 ×3 | Same as RK3568 |
| PCIe Support | PCIe 3.0, SATA, CAN, GPIO | PCIe 2.1, SPI, CAN, GPIO | SPI, UART, GPIO |
| Operating Temp | Industrial-grade optional (-40°C ~ 85°C) | Industrial-grade optional | Commercial / light industrial use |
3. Use Case Recommendation
| Application Area | Recommended SoC | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Edge AI / AI Gateway | RK3588 | High-performance NPU + multi-interface + PCIe expansion |
| Multi-screen Signage | RK3588 / RK3568 | RK3588 supports 4-display output; RK3568 supports dual displays |
| Smart Home Control Panel | RK3566 / RK3568 | RK3566 is low-power and cost-effective; RK3568 adds more performance |
| Industrial Controllers | RK3568 | Stable industrial interfaces + wide temperature range |
| Budget Tablets / Panels | RK3566 | Cost-efficient with enough multimedia and connectivity support |
| Automotive Cockpit | RK3588 / RK3568 | RK3588 ideal for high-end cockpit, RK3568 suitable for commercial use |
4. Portworld’s SoC-Based OEM/ODM Solutions
At Portworld, we provide complete development solutions based on Rockchip SoCs. From hardware design to software BSP/SDK support, we help customers create powerful, customizable smart devices.
RK3588 Solutions
- Designed for high-performance AI edge computing
- Supports 8K video, multi-display signage, advanced security
- Ideal for AI gateways, medical terminals, and premium signage
RK3568 Solutions (e.g., Portworld P6802)
- Dual Gigabit LAN, PoE, RS485, rich I/O expansion
- Supports Android / Linux / Ubuntu platforms
- Used in industrial control, digital signage, automation panels
RK3566 Solutions (e.g., Portworld P6602, YC-SM08M/P)
- Ultra-slim and power-efficient design
- Integrated Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, RS485, PoE support
- Ideal for smart home panels, intercoms, smart hotel terminals
Final Thoughts: Which SoC Should You Choose?
Your ideal SoC depends on your specific needs:
- Need powerful AI & video? → Go with RK3588
- Require industrial-grade reliability & expandability? → Choose RK3568
- Want affordable yet capable SoC for control panels? → RK3566 is your best bet
Portworld offers complete hardware and software integration based on all three SoCs, with fast turnaround and tailored OEM/ODM services. If you’re building a smart terminal, HMI panel, or edge computing device, our team is ready to help.
