Japan’s Rapidus is advancing its 2nm process technology, with reports indicating that it matches TSMC’s N2 in logic density. This development has raised questions about whether Rapidus could compete with TSMC in the 2nm race.

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### Japan’s Rapidus Could Compete With TSMC in the 2nm Race

Rapidus has garnered significant interest recently due to its status as a leading semiconductor company in Japan and NVIDIA’s expressed interest. The firm is developing its cutting-edge 2nm node, named ‘2HP’, which according to information shared by @Kurnalsalts, will feature logic density similar to TSMC’s N2. More importantly, the reported logic density of 237.31 MTr/mm² for 2HP surpasses Intel’s 18A process by a significant margin.

The logic density figures reveal that both Rapidus’ 2HP and TSMC’s N2 are high-density (HD) cells, aiming to maximize logic density. This suggests they will likely have similar transistor counts once the final products debut. Intel’s 18A node, despite being smaller with a reported density of 184.21 MTr/mm², uses HD libraries for benchmarking purposes and employs BSPDN (Backside Polysilicon Dielectric Nitridation), which can affect front-side metal layer utilization, resulting in lower logic density measurements.

Rapidus’ single-wafer front-end processing approach is unique, focusing on adjustments for limited production volumes with the potential to scale improvements. The 2nm PDK will be available to customers starting in the first quarter of 2026, based on initial information which suggests a promising node.

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These developments indicate that Rapidus is making significant strides in the semiconductor industry and could potentially become a formidable competitor in the race for advanced process technologies.