CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-1065G7 vs Intel Core i7-8559U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-1065G7 is a 10th Generation mobile processor launched in August 2019, belonging to the Ice Lake-U family. Built on Intel's 10nm Sunny Cove architecture, it was designed for thin-and-light laptops with a 15-watt default TDP. It features 4 cores and 8 threads, with a base clock of 1.3 GHz and a max turbo of 3.9 GHz. The processor stands out due to its significant architectural overhaul, offering higher IPC compared to 14nm predecessors. It integrates Intel Iris Plus Graphics with 64 execution units, providing a substantial boost in graphical and media encoding performance. Supporting LPDDR4 memory at 3733 MT/s, it delivers excellent memory bandwidth. The i7-1065G7 also includes Intel's DLBoost technology for AI acceleration and AVX-512 instructions, making it a versatile and efficient chip for premium ultrabooks targeting both productivity and light creative workloads. It marked Intel's true transition to 10nm for mainstream laptops.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong IPC ensures snappy performance in office and creative apps.
High clock speeds ensure excellent performance in office and creative apps.
Gaming
Iris Plus graphics allow for smooth 1080p gaming in esports titles.
Iris Plus 655 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
Virtualization
Capable of running light VMs, though limited to 4 cores.
Capable of running light VMs, though limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
10nm process offers excellent performance per watt.
28W TDP is efficient enough for laptops but warmer than 15W parts.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Intel DLBoost accelerates inference
- AVX-512 support
- No dedicated AI hardware
- eDRAM can be utilized for certain compute workloads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Plus graphics are a huge step up
- Can run CS:GO and Overwatch smoothly
- Still not suitable for heavy AAA gaming
- Iris Plus 655 is a major step up from UHD 620
- eDRAM helps with texture loading
- Can run macOS games smoothly
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Modern 10nm Sunny Cove architecture
- Iris Plus Graphics with 64 EUs
- Intel DLBoost for AI
- Good balance of performance and efficiency
Cons
- Only 4 cores
- Lower peak clock speeds than 14nm Comet Lake
- Soldered to motherboard
- First-gen 10nm process
Pros
- High 4.5 GHz boost clock
- Iris Plus Graphics with 128MB eDRAM
- 28W TDP allows good sustained performance
- Excellent single-core speed
Cons
- Runs warmer than 15W U-series chips
- Soldered to motherboard
- 14nm process is outdated
- Limited to older platforms
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-1065G7
- AMD Ryzen 7 4700URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-10510URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-10710URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Tiger Lake offers much better performance and Xe graphics.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Superior multi-core performance and efficiency.
- Alt
Unmatched performance per watt in the ultrabook category.
Compare head-to-head Often offers similar performance at a lower price point.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Better multi-core value for budget buyers.
Intel Core i7-8559U
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8550URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8259URival
Mobile
- Apple A12X BionicRival
Mobile
- Alt
Vastly superior performance and efficiency for Mac users.
Compare head-to-head 10th Gen successor with 10nm process and better IPC.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 4800UAlt
Much better multi-core performance in a similar power bracket.
- Intel Core i7-8665UAlt
Whiskey Lake alternative for business PCs.
- Alt
The modern standard for compact Mac desktops and laptops.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A landmark processor that brought Intel's 10nm architecture and powerful Iris Plus graphics to mainstream laptops, offering excellent efficiency and graphical leaps.
Best for: For buyers in the current market, a laptop featuring the Core i7-1065G7 remains a viable option for everyday use, particularly in the refurbished segment. The 10nm Sunny Cove architecture ensures good battery life and the Iris Plus graphics provide decent performance for light gaming and hardware-accelerated video editing. It is highly recommended for students and office workers who need a smooth, responsive experience for multitasking and media consumption. However, its 4-core design is starting to show its age compared to modern 8-core ultra-portables. Avoid this processor if your workflow involves heavy multi-threaded rendering or if you require top-tier gaming performance. It is best suited for budget-conscious buyers who want a premium ultrabook experience without paying the premium price of the latest generation hardware.
Read the full reviewA premium 28W mobile processor that combined high clock speeds with powerful Iris Plus graphics, delivering an excellent balance of CPU and GPU performance.
Best for: If you are considering a laptop with the Intel Core i7-8559U, you are likely looking at a used MacBook Pro or a premium NUC. This processor remains highly capable for everyday productivity, programming, and light 1080p video editing. The inclusion of Iris Plus graphics with eDRAM 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 Apple Silicon. However, be aware that it is an 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 and legacy software.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-1065G7 or Intel Core i7-8559U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-1065G7 leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i7-1065G7 and Intel Core i7-8559U.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-1065G7 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-1065G7 (15 W), Intel Core i7-8559U (28 W).
Do Intel Core i7-1065G7 and Intel Core i7-8559U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-1065G7: Intel BGA 1526, Intel Core i7-8559U: Intel BGA 1356), so each needs a compatible motherboard.