CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1145G7E vs Core i7-1185GRE
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-1145G7E is a specialized 11th Generation Tiger Lake-U processor tailored for embedded and edge computing applications. Released in late 2020, this quad-core, eight-thread CPU leverages Intel's 10nm SuperFin process and Willow Cove architecture to deliver a balance of performance and power efficiency. Operating at a base frequency of 1.5 GHz with the ability to boost up to 4.1 GHz, it is designed to handle intermittent compute spikes common in industrial environments. The 'E' suffix denotes its extended lifecycle support, ensuring availability for long-term deployments. With a configurable TDP ranging from 12W to 28W, system designers have the flexibility to optimize for either fanless low-power operation or higher sustained performance. It also features Iris Xe Graphics with 80 Execution Units, providing capable graphical and parallel processing power for edge inference, digital signage, and IoT workloads. This makes it a versatile choice for modern embedded systems requiring robust x86 compatibility.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong single-core performance ensures snappy response times in embedded applications and control software.
Strong single-core performance for edge processing tasks.
Gaming
Not intended for gaming, though integrated Iris Xe can handle legacy or lightweight titles at low settings.
Not intended for gaming, but Iris Xe handles it adequately if required.
Virtualization
Capable of running lightweight virtual machines for edge consolidation, though limited to 4 cores.
vPro and ECC make it excellent for lightweight edge virtualization.
Efficiency
Excellent performance-per-watt, especially when configured at the 12W configurable TDP limit.
10nm SuperFin ensures reliable 24/7 operation within 15W.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Includes Intel GNA 2.0 for low-power AI inference
- DL Boost accelerates INT8 operations
- Suitable for edge vision and audio processing
- DL Boost for edge AI inference
- GNA for low-power audio processing
Content Creation
Gaming
- Integrated graphics are sufficient for UI rendering but not 3D gaming
- Not targeted at consumer gaming markets
- Lacks PCIe lanes for external GPU expansion
- Not targeted at gamers
- Graphics capable of driving industrial displays
- Can run 2D applications flawlessly
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 10nm SuperFin process offers excellent efficiency
- Extended lifecycle availability for industrial deployments
- Configurable TDP provides thermal flexibility
- Strong single-thread performance via Willow Cove architecture
- Integrated Iris Xe graphics with 80 EUs
Cons
- Limited to only 4 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Does not support ECC memory
- Locked multiplier prevents core overclocking
- High cost compared to consumer mobile counterparts
- BGA package means it cannot be user-upgraded
Pros
- Supports ECC memory for data integrity
- Long-term embedded lifecycle guarantee
- vPro Enterprise for remote management
- 96 EU Iris Xe graphics for machine vision
- Flexible 12W-28W configurable TDP
Cons
- Overkill and expensive for consumer use
- BGA soldered, requiring custom board design
- Only 4 cores limits heavy multi-threaded edge tasks
- Niche availability through industrial channels
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-1145G7E
- AMD Ryzen 5 Embedded V2546Rival
Embedded Mobile
- Intel Atom x6425ERival
Embedded Low-Power
- AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 5650URival
Embedded Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1185G7ERival
Embedded Mobile
- NXP i.MX 8QuadMaxRival
Embedded ARM
Identical architecture but adds ECC memory support for critical data integrity.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i5-1155G7EAlt
Slightly newer embedded variant with higher clock speeds (if available).
- Intel N100Alt
More modern and cost-effective for lower-power edge devices, though with fewer threads.
- AMD Ryzen 3 Embedded V1605BAlt
Older generation but offers more cores for multi-threaded edge workloads.
Core i7-1185GRE
- AMD Ryzen Embedded V2748ARival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-1185G7Rival
Mobile
- Intel Xeon E-2386GRival
Workstation
- AMD Ryzen Embedded R2544ARival
Embedded
- NXP i.MX 8M PlusRival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-1270PEAlt
Newer 12th Gen embedded with better efficiency and more cores.
- Intel Core i7-1085GREAlt
Older 10th Gen embedded alternative if Tiger Lake is unavailable.
- Intel Atom x6425REAlt
Lower power, cheaper alternative for light IoT tasks.
Our Verdict on Each
A highly capable embedded processor offering an excellent balance of single-thread performance and power efficiency, though its limited PCIe lanes may restrict expansion capabilities in complex edge servers.
Best for: Designing a long-life embedded system requiring x86 compatibility and low power consumption.
Read the full reviewA highly reliable, embedded-grade processor that combines Tiger Lake performance with ECC memory and long-term availability for critical systems.
Best for: System integrators designing IoT devices, medical equipment, or industrial PCs requiring ECC and long-term supply.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-1145G7E or Core i7-1185GRE?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-1185GRE comes out ahead with a score of 9/10. 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 i5-1145G7E or Core i7-1185GRE?
For gaming, the Core i7-1185GRE leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i5-1145G7E and Core i7-1185GRE.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-1185GRE has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-1145G7E (28 W), Core i7-1185GRE (15 W).
Do Intel Core i5-1145G7E and Core i7-1185GRE use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1449 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-1185GRE posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-1145G7E (0), Core i7-1185GRE (4,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.