CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-1068NG7 vs Intel Core i7-8559U
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.
High clock speeds ensure excellent performance in office and creative apps.
Gaming
Iris Plus graphics handle macOS games and light Steam titles well.
Iris Plus 655 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
Virtualization
Good for running Windows VMs on macOS.
Capable of running light VMs, though limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
10nm process ensures good battery life despite the 28W TDP.
28W TDP is efficient enough for laptops but warmer than 15W parts.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Intel DLBoost provides AI acceleration
- AVX-512 support
- No dedicated AI hardware
- eDRAM can be utilized for certain compute workloads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Plus 64 EUs offer good performance
- Suitable for light gaming on macOS
- Not a dedicated gaming machine
- 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
- 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
- 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 i7-1068NG7
- 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 i7-8559U
- 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 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 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 i7-1068NG7 or Intel Core i7-8559U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-1068NG7 leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i7-1068NG7 and Intel Core i7-8559U.
Do Intel Core i7-1068NG7 and Intel Core i7-8559U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-1068NG7: Intel BGA 1344, Intel Core i7-8559U: Intel BGA 1356), so each needs a compatible motherboard.