CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1135G7 vs Intel Core i7-4558U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-1135G7 is a 4-core, 8-thread mobile processor launched in September 2020. Built on the 10nm SuperFIN process, it utilizes the Willow Cove microarchitecture. Designed for thin-and-light laptops, it operates at a 15W TDP with a base clock of 1.5 GHz and a turbo boost up to 4.2 GHz. It features the highly capable Iris Xe Graphics G7 with 80 Execution Units, bringing significant gaming and media improvements to the ultrabook segment.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Snappy performance for everyday office tasks and multitasking.
High clock speeds ensure good performance in office apps.
Gaming
Capable of playing e-sports titles and older games at 1080p thanks to Iris Xe graphics.
Iris 5100 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
Virtualization
Can handle light virtualization but is limited by 4 cores.
Capable of running one light VM, but limited by 2 cores.
Efficiency
Excellent power efficiency due to the 10nm SuperFIN process.
28W TDP is warmer than 15W parts but justified by performance.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- DLBoost and GNA 2.0 provide solid AI acceleration for background blur and noise cancellation.
- No dedicated AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Xe 80EU allows for smooth e-sports gaming.
- Performance scales heavily with dual-channel memory.
- Not suitable for modern AAA gaming at high settings.
- Iris 5100 is a major step up from HD 4400
- Can run older games at low settings
- Not suitable for modern AAA titles
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent single-core performance
- Massive leap in integrated graphics (Iris Xe 80EU)
- Great power efficiency
- Supports fast LPDDR4X-4267 memory
- Includes PCIe 4.0 for fast storage
Cons
- Limited to 4 cores
- Integrated graphics still weaker than entry-level discrete GPUs
- Soldered onto the motherboard (BGA package)
- Replaced quickly by 12th Gen P-series and U-series
Pros
- High 3.3 GHz boost clock
- Iris 5100 graphics with eDRAM
- 28W TDP allows good sustained performance
- Excellent single-core speed
Cons
- Runs warmer than 15W U-series chips
- Soldered to motherboard
- 22nm process is outdated
- Only 2 cores
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-1135G7
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-1035G1Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600UAlt
Provides better multi-core performance with 6 cores.
Budget alternative with 2 cores for basic office tasks.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Excellent 8-core alternative for heavy multitasking.
Newer 12th gen alternative with more cores and better efficiency.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-4558U
- AMD A10-5745MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4500URival
Mobile
- AMD A8-5557MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4258URival
Mobile
- AMD A10-5757MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-5557UAlt
5th Gen successor with Iris 6100 graphics.
- Alt
Vastly superior performance and efficiency for Mac users.
Compare head-to-head - AMD Ryzen 7 4800UAlt
Much better multi-core performance in a similar power bracket.
Modern alternative with massive IPC and graphics improvements.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Modern budget alternative with 6 cores.
Our Verdict on Each
A breakthrough mobile chip that brought console-like integrated graphics to thin-and-light laptops, though limited to 4 cores.
Best for: Buying a mid-range ultrabook for everyday use and light gaming.
Read the full reviewA premium 28W mobile CPU that combined high clock speeds with Iris graphics, delivering an excellent balance of CPU and GPU performance for 2013.
Best for: If you are considering a laptop with the Intel Core i7-4558U, you are likely looking at a used MacBook Pro or a premium ultrabook. This processor remains capable for everyday productivity, programming, and light 1080p video editing. The inclusion of Iris 5100 graphics 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 modern hardware. However, be aware that it is an older 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.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-1135G7 or Intel Core i7-4558U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-1135G7 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 i5-1135G7 or Intel Core i7-4558U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-1135G7 leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i5-1135G7 and Intel Core i7-4558U.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i5-1135G7 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-1135G7 (15 W), Intel Core i7-4558U (28 W).
Do Intel Core i5-1135G7 and Intel Core i7-4558U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i5-1135G7: Intel BGA 1449, Intel Core i7-4558U: Intel BGA 1168), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i5-1135G7 has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i5-1135G7 (4 cores), Intel Core i7-4558U (2 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-1135G7 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-1135G7 (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.