CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-1145GRE vs Core i7-1185GRE
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-1145GRE is an enterprise-grade embedded processor based on the 11th Gen Tiger Lake-U architecture. Identical in raw compute capabilities to the i5-1145G7E, this variant introduces crucial Error Correcting Code (ECC) memory support, making it suitable for critical edge computing, network appliances, and micro-servers where data integrity is non-negotiable. Featuring 4 cores and 8 threads on Intel's 10nm SuperFin process, it operates at a base clock of 1.5 GHz and boosts up to 4.1 GHz. The configurable TDP ranges from 12W to 28W, providing flexibility for various industrial thermal designs. The inclusion of Intel vPro, TXT (Trusted Execution Technology), and ECC memory elevates this chip above standard embedded offerings, allowing it to be deployed in secure, zero-downtime environments. The integrated Iris Xe Graphics G7 with 80 EUs also provides substantial parallel processing capabilities for AI inference and visual workloads at the network edge.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
High IPC and 4.1GHz boost ensure quick execution of network routing and control logic.
Strong single-core performance for edge processing tasks.
Gaming
Not intended for gaming; integrated graphics handle UI and media playback only.
Not intended for gaming, but Iris Xe handles it adequately if required.
Virtualization
Strong hardware virtualization support (VT-x, VT-d, EPT) makes it capable of running SD-WAN or light VMs.
vPro and ECC make it excellent for lightweight edge virtualization.
Efficiency
Excellent performance-per-watt, especially when scaled down to the 12W cTDP limit.
10nm SuperFin ensures reliable 24/7 operation within 15W.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- DL Boost for INT8 inference
- GNA 2.0 for audio processing
- Suitable for edge vision systems requiring high reliability
- DL Boost for edge AI inference
- GNA for low-power audio processing
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Xe 80EU is capable of light 3D rendering but not gaming
- No support for external GPUs due to 4-lane PCIe limitation
- Focus is entirely on enterprise/industrial workloads
- 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
- ECC memory support for absolute data integrity
- Intel vPro and TXT for enterprise-grade security
- 10nm SuperFin process offers excellent power efficiency
- Configurable TDP for versatile thermal designs
- Strong single-thread performance
Cons
- Very high launch price ($362) for a quad-core chip
- Limited to only 4 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- BGA socket requires specialized manufacturing
- Locked multiplier
- Not available in standard consumer retail channels
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 i5-1145GRE
- AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 5650URival
Embedded Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 Embedded V2546Rival
Embedded Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1185GRERival
Embedded Mobile
- Intel Xeon W-11865MLERival
Workstation Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 3 Embedded V1605BRival
Embedded Mobile
Identical performance but lacks ECC memory; better for non-critical edge devices.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i5-1155GREAlt
A slightly refreshed embedded SKU with higher clock speeds (if applicable).
- Intel Atom x6425REAlt
Lower power and cost alternative for less demanding network appliances.
- AMD Ryzen Embedded V2718Alt
Higher performance AMD alternative with ECC and more lanes.
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
An excellent enterprise embedded processor. The addition of ECC memory and vPro makes it a top-tier choice for critical edge infrastructure, justifying its premium price over the non-ECC variant.
Best for: Building mission-critical edge servers, network appliances, or medical devices where data integrity is required.
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 i5-1145GRE 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 i5-1145GRE or Core i7-1185GRE?
For gaming, the Core i7-1185GRE leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i5-1145GRE and Core i7-1185GRE.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-1185GRE has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-1145GRE (28 W), Core i7-1185GRE (15 W).
Do Intel Core i5-1145GRE 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 i5-1145GRE (0), Core i7-1185GRE (4,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.