CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1038NG7 vs Intel Core i7-8559U
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 clock speeds ensure excellent performance in office and creative apps.
Gaming
Capable of running macOS-supported games at decent settings thanks to 64 EUs.
Iris Plus 655 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
Virtualization
Handles Windows VMs via Boot Camp or Parallels reasonably well.
Capable of running light VMs, though limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
Less efficient than 15W models, but Apple's chassis design managed thermals effectively.
28W TDP is efficient enough for laptops but warmer than 15W parts.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DL Boost 1.0
- Suitable for basic Core ML tasks on macOS
- No dedicated AI hardware
- eDRAM can be utilized for certain compute workloads
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 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
- 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 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 i5-1038NG7
- 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 i7-8559U
- 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 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 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 i5-1038NG7 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 is faster for gaming, Intel Core i5-1038NG7 or Intel Core i7-8559U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-1038NG7 leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i5-1038NG7 and Intel Core i7-8559U.
Do Intel Core i5-1038NG7 and Intel Core i7-8559U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i5-1038NG7: Intel BGA 1344, Intel Core i7-8559U: Intel BGA 1356), 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.