CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-8305G vs Intel Core i7-4930MX
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-8305G is a quad-core mobile processor born from a unique partnership between Intel and AMD. Released as part of the Kaby Lake-G lineup, it combines an Intel 14nm CPU with a dedicated AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL discrete-class GPU on a single package. Operating at a base clock of 2.8 GHz and boosting up to 3.8 GHz, it features 4 cores, 8 threads, and 6MB of L3 cache. The standout feature is the integrated Radeon graphics with its own HBM2 memory, offering performance levels unattainable by standard integrated graphics of the era. With a 65W TDP, it targets high-performance thin-and-light laptops and small form factor PCs that require genuine gaming capability without the bulk of traditional discrete graphics. This processor represents a fascinating experiment in semiconductor packaging and collaboration, delivering robust 1080p gaming performance and strong compute capabilities in a compact form factor.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong quad-core CPU performance for everyday and moderate heavy tasks.
8 threads and high clocks make quick work of compiling and rendering.
Gaming
Capable of playing modern games at 1080p medium settings.
Excellent for older games and can handle modern eSports easily with a discrete GPU.
Virtualization
Good for running VMs, though limited to 4 cores.
Good for running VMs, though limited by mobile platform constraints.
Efficiency
65W is efficient for the performance, but requires active cooling.
57W TDP is very power-hungry for a mobile chip, resulting in poor battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Can utilize AMD GPU for compute
- Lacks modern AI instruction sets
- No AI hardware
- CPU inference is slow
Content Creation
Gaming
- Radeon RX Vega M GL with 4GB HBM2
- Comparable to an Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti
- Driver support is essentially discontinued
- Won't bottleneck 2013-era GPUs
- Can be overclocked for extra FPS
- Requires massive laptop cooling
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent integrated graphics performance
- Dedicated HBM2 memory for the GPU
- Fits high-end gaming into small form factors
- Good CPU performance with 4 cores and 8 threads
Cons
- Driver support is effectively abandoned
- 65W TDP requires active cooling
- Only 8 PCIe lanes available for external devices
- Unique BGA 2270 socket limits upgradability
Pros
- Unlocked multiplier
- Full 8MB L3 cache
- High 3.9 GHz turbo boost
- Removable PGA socket
Cons
- Extremely high 57W TDP
- Runs very hot
- Expensive launch price
- Poor battery life
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-8305G
- AMD Ryzen 5 2500URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8705GRival
Mobile (G-Series)
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8300HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600HAlt
Better modern alternative with superior integrated graphics.
Newer architecture with Xe graphics and better drivers.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Much faster and more efficient for thin gaming.
- Intel Core i5-8259UAlt
Cheaper alternative if heavy graphics aren't needed.
Intel Core i7-4930MX
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4900MQRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3940XMRival
Mobile Extreme
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4940MXRival
Mobile Extreme
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-5700HQAlt
Newer Broadwell architecture with better efficiency.
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HAlt
Modern mobile alternative with better efficiency.
6-core modern alternative that destroys it in performance.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Incredible modern performance per watt.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
An innovative and powerful hybrid processor that delivers exceptional 1080p gaming performance in thin form factors, though its driver support is now outdated.
Best for: Buying a used NUC8 or thin gaming laptop at a steep discount.
Read the full reviewA legendary mobile CPU that brought unlocked overclocking to laptops, offering desktop-level performance for enthusiasts.
Best for: Collecting vintage gaming laptops or extreme budget used systems.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-8305G or Intel Core i7-4930MX?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-8305G 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 i5-8305G or Intel Core i7-4930MX?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-8305G leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Intel Core i5-8305G and Intel Core i7-4930MX.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4930MX has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-8305G (65 W), Intel Core i7-4930MX (57 W).
Do Intel Core i5-8305G and Intel Core i7-4930MX use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i5-8305G: Intel BGA 2270, Intel Core i7-4930MX: Intel Socket G3), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-8305G posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-8305G (7,800), Intel Core i7-4930MX (6,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.