CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1038NG7 vs Intel Core i7-8560U
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.
Handles heavy multitasking and office applications effortlessly.
Gaming
Capable of running macOS-supported games at decent settings thanks to 64 EUs.
Only suitable for very light or older games on low settings.
Virtualization
Handles Windows VMs via Boot Camp or Parallels reasonably well.
Can run light VMs, but limited by 15W power constraints.
Efficiency
Less efficient than 15W models, but Apple's chassis design managed thermals effectively.
Outstanding power-to-performance ratio for battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DL Boost 1.0
- Suitable for basic Core ML tasks on macOS
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Basic CPU inference only
Content Creation
Gaming
- 64 EUs provide decent graphical horsepower
- Limited by the macOS game library
- Can run older titles smoothly via Boot Camp
- Relies on Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Only suitable for indie or older titles
- Not recommended for modern 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
- Excellent power efficiency
- Good burst performance
- Quad-core multitasking
- Widely supported in business laptops
Cons
- Weak integrated graphics
- Older 14nm process
- Locked multiplier
- Soldered to motherboard
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 i7-8560U
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 2800HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8250URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8550URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8650URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Better integrated graphics and efficiency.
Significantly faster single-core and better iGPU.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Stronger overall performance and newer architecture.
- AMD Ryzen 7 4700UAlt
More cores and better battery life.
- Alt
Incredible performance per watt for ultrabooks.
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 capable quad-core mobile CPU that offers excellent battery life and sufficient power for everyday productivity, though it struggles with heavy rendering or modern gaming.
Best for: Purchasing a used, premium ultrabook for study or light office work.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-1038NG7 or Intel Core i7-8560U?
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 i7-8560U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-1038NG7 leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i5-1038NG7 and Intel Core i7-8560U.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-8560U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-1038NG7 (28 W), Intel Core i7-8560U (15 W).
Do Intel Core i5-1038NG7 and Intel Core i7-8560U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i5-1038NG7: Intel BGA 1344, Intel Core i7-8560U: Intel BGA 1528), so each needs a compatible motherboard.