CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-1068NG7 vs Intel Core i7-10710U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-1068NG7 is a specialized 10th Gen mobile processor launched in August 2019. Based on the 10nm Ice Lake-U architecture, it was uniquely tailored for Apple's MacBook Pro lineup. The 'N' in its designation denotes its exclusive availability for Apple products. It features 4 cores and 8 threads, operating at a higher 28-watt TDP compared to standard 15W Ice Lake chips. This allows for a higher base clock of 2.3 GHz and a boost clock of up to 4.1 GHz. With 8MB of L3 cache and Intel Iris Plus Graphics, it delivers robust performance for both CPU and GPU-intensive tasks. The processor supports LPDDR4 memory and includes Intel's DLBoost for AI acceleration. Its 28W TDP strikes a balance between the low-power U-series and the higher-performance H-series, making it ideal for Apple's compact 13-inch MacBook Pro. It provided a significant upgrade over previous dual-core Mac models.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
High sustained clocks make it excellent for professional workflows.
Excellent multi-threaded performance for an ultrabook chip of its era.
Gaming
Iris Plus graphics handle macOS games and light Steam titles well.
Basic integrated graphics limit gaming to light esports titles.
Virtualization
Good for running Windows VMs on macOS.
12 threads make it highly capable for running multiple VMs on the go.
Efficiency
10nm process ensures good battery life despite the 28W TDP.
Low base clock helps idle efficiency, but 14nm runs warm under load.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Intel DLBoost provides AI acceleration
- AVX-512 support
- No dedicated AI hardware
- CPU inference is decent due to 12 threads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Plus 64 EUs offer good performance
- Suitable for light gaming on macOS
- Not a dedicated gaming machine
- UHD Graphics are not meant for gaming
- Suitable for older or 2D games only
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- High sustained performance for a mobile chip
- Iris Plus Graphics with 64 EUs
- Excellent for macOS productivity
- Good balance of power and efficiency
Cons
- End-of-life platform
- Apple Silicon is vastly superior
- Soldered and non-upgradable
- Can run warm under heavy load
Pros
- 6 cores and 12 threads
- Strong multi-threaded performance
- Good for programming and compilation
- Large 12MB L3 cache
Cons
- Low base clock of 1.1 GHz
- Outdated 14nm process
- Basic UHD integrated graphics
- Can run warm under sustained load
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-1068NG7
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-1065G7Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-1038NG7Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 4700URival
Mobile
- Alt
The modern standard for Mac laptops.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core i7-1185G7Alt
Better x86 alternative if staying on Windows.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Excellent Windows alternative for productivity.
Intel Core i7-10710U
- AMD Ryzen 7 4700URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-10510URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-1065G7Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Better IPC and significantly faster integrated graphics.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Superior efficiency and multi-core performance.
- Alt
Unmatched battery life and performance for ultrabooks.
Compare head-to-head Often outperforms the 10710U in everyday tasks due to better IPC.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Budget-friendly alternative with strong multi-core performance.
Our Verdict on Each
A custom 28W Intel chip for Apple that offered an excellent balance of performance and efficiency in the 13-inch MacBook Pro, though now superseded by Apple Silicon.
Best for: If you are considering purchasing a used 13-inch MacBook Pro with the Core i7-1068NG7, it is important to weigh its pros and cons carefully. This processor offers excellent performance for everyday tasks, programming, and light video editing. The 28W TDP ensures it can sustain high clock speeds better than standard ultrabook chips. However, you must be aware that Apple has transitioned entirely to its own M-series silicon, meaning Intel-based Macs will eventually lose software support and optimization. It is recommended only if you can find one at a highly discounted price and you specifically need x86 architecture for legacy applications or Boot Camp. Avoid paying anywhere near the original retail price. For most users, an M1 MacBook Air will offer significantly better battery life, cooler operation, and faster overall performance.
Read the full reviewA pioneering 6-core U-series processor that delivered excellent multi-threaded performance for ultrabooks, though its low base clock and 14nm limitations hold it back today.
Best for: If you are looking at a laptop with the Core i7-10710U today, it is best suited for the second-hand or refurbished market. It is not recommended for new purchases unless heavily discounted, as 11th and 12th Gen Intel processors offer substantially better performance and battery life. For users who need a budget-friendly machine for moderate multitasking, programming, or light video editing, the 6-core design still holds up reasonably well. Avoid this processor if you prioritize battery life above all else, as the 14nm process is notably less efficient than modern 10nm or Intel 7 nodes. It is a capable chip for daily productivity but shows its age in demanding workloads.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-1068NG7 or Intel Core i7-10710U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-1068NG7 comes out ahead with a score of 8.5/10. 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 i7-1068NG7 or Intel Core i7-10710U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-1068NG7 leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i7-1068NG7 and Intel Core i7-10710U.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-10710U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-1068NG7 (28 W), Intel Core i7-10710U (25 W).
Do Intel Core i7-1068NG7 and Intel Core i7-10710U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-1068NG7: Intel BGA 1344, Intel Core i7-10710U: Intel BGA 1440), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-10710U has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i7-1068NG7 (4 cores), Intel Core i7-10710U (6 cores).