CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1035G4 vs Intel Core i7-8559U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-1035G4 is a mid-tier mobile processor launched in August 2019 as part of the 10th Gen Ice Lake-U family. Built on Intel's 10nm process, it utilizes the Sunny Cove microarchitecture and features four cores and eight threads, making it well-suited for multitasking and everyday productivity. With a base clock of 1.1 GHz and a max turbo frequency of 3.7 GHz, it offers responsive performance in thin-and-light laptops. The processor operates at a 15-watt TDP, balancing power consumption and thermal output. A defining characteristic of the G4 variant is its inclusion of Intel Iris Plus graphics with 48 execution units, sitting between the lower-end UHD graphics and the higher-end 64-EU Iris Plus. This makes it capable of smooth 4K media playback and casual gaming. With support for LPDDR4 memory and PCIe Gen 3, the i5-1035G4 provides a versatile foundation for portable computing devices requiring a step up in graphical performance.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong single and multi-core performance for daily office work and multitasking.
High clock speeds ensure excellent performance in office and creative apps.
Gaming
The 48-EU graphics can handle older games and e-sports titles at lower settings.
Iris Plus 655 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
Virtualization
Adequate for light VMs, though limited by 4 cores.
Capable of running light VMs, though limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
10nm process ensures good battery life in standard 15W configurations.
28W TDP is efficient enough for laptops but warmer than 15W parts.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Lacks DL Boost found in higher-end models
- Capable of basic AI inference
- No dedicated AI hardware
- eDRAM can be utilized for certain compute workloads
Content Creation
Gaming
- 48 Execution Units provide decent graphical headroom
- Can run CS:GO and Valorant smoothly
- Not suitable for modern AAA games at high settings
- Iris Plus 655 is a major step up from UHD 620
- eDRAM helps with texture loading
- Can run macOS games smoothly
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Iris Plus graphics with 48 EUs
- Good single-thread performance
- 10nm power efficiency
- Native Thunderbolt 3 support
- Decent casual gaming capability
Cons
- Not as graphically powerful as the G7 variant
- Soldered to motherboard
- Outperformed by newer AMD and Intel chips
- Can thermal throttle under heavy load in thin laptops
Pros
- High 4.5 GHz boost clock
- Iris Plus Graphics with 128MB eDRAM
- 28W TDP allows good sustained performance
- Excellent single-core speed
Cons
- Runs warmer than 15W U-series chips
- Soldered to motherboard
- 14nm process is outdated
- Limited to older platforms
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-1035G4
- AMD Ryzen 5 3550URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-1035G1Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-1065G7Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 3500URival
Mobile
Tiger Lake successor with significantly better graphics and IPC.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600UAlt
Better efficiency and multi-core performance.
Modern alternative with vastly superior multi-core performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 4700UAlt
Stronger multi-core alternative in the same category.
Higher graphical performance alternative (64 EUs).
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-8559U
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8550URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8259URival
Mobile
- Apple A12X BionicRival
Mobile
- Alt
Vastly superior performance and efficiency for Mac users.
Compare head-to-head 10th Gen successor with 10nm process and better IPC.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 4800UAlt
Much better multi-core performance in a similar power bracket.
- Intel Core i7-8665UAlt
Whiskey Lake alternative for business PCs.
- Alt
The modern standard for compact Mac desktops and laptops.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A balanced mobile processor that combines Sunny Cove architecture with 48-EU Iris Plus graphics, offering a good middle ground for multimedia tasks.
Best for: Purchasing a mid-range used laptop for light creative work and media consumption.
Read the full reviewA premium 28W mobile processor that combined high clock speeds with powerful Iris Plus graphics, delivering an excellent balance of CPU and GPU performance.
Best for: If you are considering a laptop with the Intel Core i7-8559U, you are likely looking at a used MacBook Pro or a premium NUC. This processor remains highly capable for everyday productivity, programming, and light 1080p video editing. The inclusion of Iris Plus graphics with eDRAM provides a noticeable boost in graphical tasks compared to standard U-series chips. It is an excellent choice for users who need a compact, moderately powerful machine without paying the premium for Apple Silicon. However, be aware that it is an Intel-based Mac, meaning it will eventually lose macOS support. Avoid this processor if you need to run modern AAA games or heavy 3D rendering workloads. It is best purchased at a discount for general use and legacy software.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-1035G4 or Intel Core i7-8559U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8559U comes out ahead with a score of 8.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i5-1035G4 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-1035G4 (15 W), Intel Core i7-8559U (28 W).
Do Intel Core i5-1035G4 and Intel Core i7-8559U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i5-1035G4: Intel BGA 1526, Intel Core i7-8559U: Intel BGA 1356), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-1035G4 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-1035G4 (7,800). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.