CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-1068NG7 vs Core i7-1185G7
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 single-core performance makes everyday tasks and moderate multitasking extremely responsive.
Gaming
Iris Plus graphics handle macOS games and light Steam titles well.
Capable of playing e-sports titles and older games at 1080p, but struggles with AAA titles at high settings.
Virtualization
Good for running Windows VMs on macOS.
Adequate for light virtualization, but 4 cores limit running multiple heavy VMs.
Efficiency
10nm process ensures good battery life despite the 28W TDP.
10nm process provides excellent performance per watt for ultrabook form factors.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Intel DLBoost provides AI acceleration
- AVX-512 support
- Features DLBoost for AI inference
- Suitable for light edge AI tasks
- No dedicated NPU
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Plus 64 EUs offer good performance
- Suitable for light gaming on macOS
- Not a dedicated gaming machine
- Iris Xe 96EU is a major upgrade
- Dependent on system memory configuration
- Not suitable for high-end gaming
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
- Excellent single-thread performance
- Integrated Iris Xe 96EU graphics
- 10nm SuperFin efficiency
- PCIe 4.0 support
- vPro enterprise features
Cons
- Only 4 cores limits multi-threading
- End-of-life status
- Limited PCIe lanes (4x)
- Locked multiplier
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.
Core i7-1185G7
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Rival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3Rival
Mobile
Better value for similar daily performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
More cores for multi-threaded workloads.
Newer architecture with more cores.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5825UAlt
Superior integrated graphics and cores.
- Alt
Better efficiency and single-thread speed.
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 highly capable 4-core mobile processor that brought significant single-thread and integrated graphics improvements to the ultrabook market.
Best for: Buying a used or refurbished premium ultrabook.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-1068NG7 or Core i7-1185G7?
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 Core i7-1185G7?
For gaming, the Core i7-1185G7 leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i7-1068NG7 and Core i7-1185G7.
Do Intel Core i7-1068NG7 and Core i7-1185G7 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-1068NG7: Intel BGA 1344, Core i7-1185G7: BGA 1449), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-1185G7 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-1185G7 (6,800). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.