CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1038NG7 vs Intel Core i7-1068NG7
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.
High sustained clocks make it excellent for professional workflows.
Gaming
Capable of running macOS-supported games at decent settings thanks to 64 EUs.
Iris Plus graphics handle macOS games and light Steam titles well.
Virtualization
Handles Windows VMs via Boot Camp or Parallels reasonably well.
Good for running Windows VMs on macOS.
Efficiency
Less efficient than 15W models, but Apple's chassis design managed thermals effectively.
10nm process ensures good battery life despite the 28W TDP.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DL Boost 1.0
- Suitable for basic Core ML tasks on macOS
- Intel DLBoost provides AI acceleration
- 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 64 EUs offer good performance
- Suitable for light gaming on macOS
- Not a dedicated gaming machine
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
- High sustained performance for a mobile chip
- Iris Plus Graphics with 64 EUs
- Excellent for macOS productivity
- Good balance of power and efficiency
Cons
- End-of-life platform
- Apple Silicon is vastly superior
- Soldered and non-upgradable
- Can run warm under heavy load
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 i7-1068NG7
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-1065G7Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-1038NG7Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 4700URival
Mobile
- Alt
The modern standard for Mac laptops.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core i7-1185G7Alt
Better x86 alternative if staying on Windows.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Excellent Windows alternative for productivity.
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 custom 28W Intel chip for Apple that offered an excellent balance of performance and efficiency in the 13-inch MacBook Pro, though now superseded by Apple Silicon.
Best for: If you are considering purchasing a used 13-inch MacBook Pro with the Core i7-1068NG7, it is important to weigh its pros and cons carefully. This processor offers excellent performance for everyday tasks, programming, and light video editing. The 28W TDP ensures it can sustain high clock speeds better than standard ultrabook chips. However, you must be aware that Apple has transitioned entirely to its own M-series silicon, meaning Intel-based Macs will eventually lose software support and optimization. It is recommended only if you can find one at a highly discounted price and you specifically need x86 architecture for legacy applications or Boot Camp. Avoid paying anywhere near the original retail price. For most users, an M1 MacBook Air will offer significantly better battery life, cooler operation, and faster overall performance.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-1038NG7 or Intel Core i7-1068NG7?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-1068NG7 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.
Do Intel Core i5-1038NG7 and Intel Core i7-1068NG7 use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1344 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
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.