CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1038NG7 vs Intel Core i7-10710U
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.
Excellent multi-threaded performance for an ultrabook chip of its era.
Gaming
Capable of running macOS-supported games at decent settings thanks to 64 EUs.
Basic integrated graphics limit gaming to light esports titles.
Virtualization
Handles Windows VMs via Boot Camp or Parallels reasonably well.
12 threads make it highly capable for running multiple VMs on the go.
Efficiency
Less efficient than 15W models, but Apple's chassis design managed thermals effectively.
Low base clock helps idle efficiency, but 14nm runs warm under load.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DL Boost 1.0
- Suitable for basic Core ML tasks on macOS
- No dedicated AI hardware
- CPU inference is decent due to 12 threads
Content Creation
Gaming
- 64 EUs provide decent graphical horsepower
- Limited by the macOS game library
- Can run older titles smoothly via Boot Camp
- UHD Graphics are not meant for gaming
- Suitable for older or 2D games only
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
- 6 cores and 12 threads
- Strong multi-threaded performance
- Good for programming and compilation
- Large 12MB L3 cache
Cons
- Low base clock of 1.1 GHz
- Outdated 14nm process
- Basic UHD integrated graphics
- Can run warm under sustained 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 i7-10710U
- AMD Ryzen 7 4700URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-10510URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-1065G7Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Better IPC and significantly faster integrated graphics.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Superior efficiency and multi-core performance.
- Alt
Unmatched battery life and performance for ultrabooks.
Compare head-to-head Often outperforms the 10710U in everyday tasks due to better IPC.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Budget-friendly alternative with strong multi-core performance.
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 pioneering 6-core U-series processor that delivered excellent multi-threaded performance for ultrabooks, though its low base clock and 14nm limitations hold it back today.
Best for: If you are looking at a laptop with the Core i7-10710U today, it is best suited for the second-hand or refurbished market. It is not recommended for new purchases unless heavily discounted, as 11th and 12th Gen Intel processors offer substantially better performance and battery life. For users who need a budget-friendly machine for moderate multitasking, programming, or light video editing, the 6-core design still holds up reasonably well. Avoid this processor if you prioritize battery life above all else, as the 14nm process is notably less efficient than modern 10nm or Intel 7 nodes. It is a capable chip for daily productivity but shows its age in demanding workloads.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-1038NG7 or Intel Core i7-10710U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-1038NG7 comes out ahead with a score of 8.2/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i5-1038NG7 or Intel Core i7-10710U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-1038NG7 leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i5-1038NG7 and Intel Core i7-10710U.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-10710U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-1038NG7 (28 W), Intel Core i7-10710U (25 W).
Do Intel Core i5-1038NG7 and Intel Core i7-10710U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i5-1038NG7: Intel BGA 1344, Intel Core i7-10710U: Intel BGA 1440), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-10710U has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i5-1038NG7 (4 cores), Intel Core i7-10710U (6 cores).
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.