CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-4250U vs Intel Core i7-4558U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-4250U is a specialized dual-core mobile processor released in mid-2013 as part of the 4th Generation Core (Haswell) family. While it shares the same 15-watt TDP and dual-core, four-thread configuration as other U-series chips, it distinguishes itself by integrating Intel HD Graphics 5000 instead of the standard HD 4400. This graphics upgrade features 40 execution units, double the amount found in the 4400, making it highly capable of handling graphics-intensive tasks for its form factor. Operating at a base clock of 1.3 GHz with a turbo boost up to 2.6 GHz, it was optimized for systems that required better graphical output without sacrificing battery life. This specific chip was heavily favored by Apple for its 2013 MacBook Air lineup, where its efficient power consumption and enhanced integrated graphics provided an excellent balance of performance and longevity for on-the-go users.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
CPU performance is low.
High clock speeds ensure good performance in office apps.
Gaming
Better than standard U-series due to HD 5000.
Iris 5100 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
Virtualization
Basic VM support.
Capable of running one light VM, but limited by 2 cores.
Efficiency
Excellent battery life.
28W TDP is warmer than 15W parts but justified by performance.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware.
- No dedicated AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- Can run old games better than HD 4400.
- 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
- HD 5000 graphics were class-leading
- Great battery life
- Perfect for 2013 MacBook Air
- Low power consumption
Cons
- Only 2 cores
- Soldered to motherboard
- No modern OS support
- Low base clock
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- 22nm process is outdated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 i5-4250U
- AMD A10-5745MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4650URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4200URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4610YRival
Mobile
- AMD A8-5557MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-4260UAlt
Slightly faster version for MacBooks.
- Intel Core i5-8210YAlt
Modern MacBook Air alternative.
- Alt
Lightyears ahead in performance and efficiency.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core i3-8130UAlt
Cheap modern Windows alternative.
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
Superior integrated graphics for its era, but the CPU component is now obsolete.
Best for: Used 2013 MacBook Air for basic typing
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 i5-4250U or Intel Core i7-4558U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-4250U comes out ahead with a score of 5.5/10. 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 i5-4250U or Intel Core i7-4558U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-4250U leads with a gaming performance score of 30/100 among Intel Core i5-4250U and Intel Core i7-4558U.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i5-4250U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-4250U (15 W), Intel Core i7-4558U (28 W).
Do Intel Core i5-4250U and Intel Core i7-4558U use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1168 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-4250U posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-4250U (2,900). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.