CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1038NG7 vs Intel Core i7-1065G7
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-1038NG7 is a specialized mobile processor introduced in May 2020 as an Apple-exclusive variant of the Ice Lake-U family. Built on Intel's 10nm process and utilizing the Sunny Cove microarchitecture, it features four cores and eight threads. Operating at a higher 28-watt TDP compared to standard 15W mobile chips, it delivers robust performance for thin-and-light laptops. With a base clock of 2.0 GHz and a max turbo frequency of 3.8 GHz, it offers snappy single-threaded performance. The processor integrates Intel Iris Plus graphics with 64 execution units, providing excellent graphical capabilities for a mobile chip of its era. It supports dual-channel LPDDR4 memory up to 3733 MT/s and includes native Thunderbolt 3 support. Designed specifically for Apple's MacBook Air and entry-level MacBook Pro models, it represents a unique collaboration, offering a step up in sustained performance over standard ultra-low voltage Intel processors.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
The 28W TDP allows for excellent sustained performance in office and creative tasks.
Strong IPC ensures snappy performance in office and creative apps.
Gaming
Capable of running macOS-supported games at decent settings thanks to 64 EUs.
Iris Plus graphics allow for smooth 1080p gaming in esports titles.
Virtualization
Handles Windows VMs via Boot Camp or Parallels reasonably well.
Capable of running light VMs, though limited to 4 cores.
Efficiency
Less efficient than 15W models, but Apple's chassis design managed thermals effectively.
10nm process offers excellent performance per watt.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DL Boost 1.0
- Suitable for basic Core ML tasks on macOS
- Intel DLBoost accelerates inference
- AVX-512 support
Content Creation
Gaming
- 64 EUs provide decent graphical horsepower
- Limited by the macOS game library
- Can run older titles smoothly via Boot Camp
- Iris Plus graphics are a huge step up
- Can run CS:GO and Overwatch smoothly
- Still not suitable for heavy AAA gaming
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Strong sustained performance for a mobile chip
- Iris Plus graphics with 64 EUs
- Native Thunderbolt 3 support
- Good base clock of 2.0 GHz
- Supports Boot Camp for Windows compatibility
Cons
- End-of-life platform
- Outperformed by Apple M1 in almost every metric
- Soldered and restricted to Apple hardware
- Thermal throttling occurs in the thin MacBook Air chassis
Pros
- Modern 10nm Sunny Cove architecture
- Iris Plus Graphics with 64 EUs
- Intel DLBoost for AI
- Good balance of performance and efficiency
Cons
- Only 4 cores
- Lower peak clock speeds than 14nm Comet Lake
- Soldered to motherboard
- First-gen 10nm process
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-1038NG7
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-1035G7Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-1065G7Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
Modern Windows alternative with superior multi-core performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600UAlt
Strong mobile alternative for Windows laptops.
- Alt
Modern Apple alternative for much better performance.
Compare head-to-head Higher tier Apple Intel alternative if sticking to 2020 MacBooks.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-1065G7
- AMD Ryzen 7 4700URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-10510URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-10710URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Tiger Lake offers much better performance and Xe graphics.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Superior multi-core performance and efficiency.
- Alt
Unmatched performance per watt in the ultrabook category.
Compare head-to-head Often offers similar performance at a lower price point.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Better multi-core value for budget buyers.
Our Verdict on Each
A custom 28W Intel chip that provided excellent sustained performance for Apple's 2020 MacBooks, though it was quickly overshadowed by Apple Silicon.
Best for: Purchasing a used 2020 Intel MacBook for specific Boot Camp needs or budget constraints.
Read the full reviewA landmark processor that brought Intel's 10nm architecture and powerful Iris Plus graphics to mainstream laptops, offering excellent efficiency and graphical leaps.
Best for: For buyers in the current market, a laptop featuring the Core i7-1065G7 remains a viable option for everyday use, particularly in the refurbished segment. The 10nm Sunny Cove architecture ensures good battery life and the Iris Plus graphics provide decent performance for light gaming and hardware-accelerated video editing. It is highly recommended for students and office workers who need a smooth, responsive experience for multitasking and media consumption. However, its 4-core design is starting to show its age compared to modern 8-core ultra-portables. Avoid this processor if your workflow involves heavy multi-threaded rendering or if you require top-tier gaming performance. It is best suited for budget-conscious buyers who want a premium ultrabook experience without paying the premium price of the latest generation hardware.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-1038NG7 or Intel Core i7-1065G7?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-1065G7 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 i7-1065G7 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-1038NG7 (28 W), Intel Core i7-1065G7 (15 W).
Do Intel Core i5-1038NG7 and Intel Core i7-1065G7 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i5-1038NG7: Intel BGA 1344, Intel Core i7-1065G7: Intel BGA 1526), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-1038NG7 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-1038NG7 (8,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.