CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-8305G vs Intel Core i7-8709G
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.
Strong CPU performance for everyday tasks and content creation.
Gaming
Capable of playing modern games at 1080p medium settings.
Excellent 1080p gaming performance, comparable to a GTX 1060 Max-Q.
Virtualization
Good for running VMs, though limited to 4 cores.
Capable but limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
65W is efficient for the performance, but requires active cooling.
HBM2 memory improves power efficiency compared to discrete GPUs.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Can utilize AMD GPU for compute
- Lacks modern AI instruction sets
- Radeon GPU supports OpenCL acceleration
Content Creation
Gaming
- Radeon RX Vega M GL with 4GB HBM2
- Comparable to an Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti
- Driver support is essentially discontinued
- Comparable to GTX 1060 Max-Q
- Can run most AAA games at 1080p high
- Excellent for VR
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
- Unique Intel-AMD hybrid design
- High-end Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics
- 4GB of HBM2 memory
- GTX 1060-class gaming performance
Cons
- Driver support has ended
- 65W TDP requires active cooling
- Soldered and non-upgradable
- 14nm CPU process is outdated
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 i7-8709G
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7700HQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8705GRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8300HRival
Mobile
10th Gen successor with integrated Iris Plus graphics.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HAlt
Much better CPU and GPU performance.
- Alt
Modern alternative with excellent efficiency.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Better driver support and modern Xe graphics.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Superior performance and battery life.
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 powerhouse hybrid processor that combined an Intel CPU with AMD's highest-tier mobile Vega graphics, delivering exceptional gaming performance in compact form factors.
Best for: The Intel Core i7-8709G is a processor you will find in high-end mini PCs like the Intel NUC8 VR and certain thin-and-light gaming laptops. It remains a highly capable solution for 1080p gaming at high settings and VR, offering performance comparable to a GTX 1060. It is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who need a compact, powerful machine for gaming or media creation. However, driver support from Intel for the Radeon component has ended, meaning you may encounter compatibility issues with the latest games. Avoid this processor if you want a future-proof system or need the latest API support. It is best purchased at a discount for its unique hardware design and solid 1080p performance, particularly in small form factor builds where a discrete GPU isn't feasible.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-8305G or Intel Core i7-8709G?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8709G 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 i5-8305G or Intel Core i7-8709G?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8709G leads with a gaming performance score of 85/100 among Intel Core i5-8305G and Intel Core i7-8709G.
Do Intel Core i5-8305G and Intel Core i7-8709G use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 2270 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
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). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.