CPU Comparison
Core i7-3610QM vs Core i7-4800MQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-3610QM is a high-performance mobile processor launched in April 2012. Based on the Ivy Bridge architecture, this 22nm quad-core CPU features Hyper-Threading, allowing it to process 8 threads simultaneously. It operates at a base frequency of 2.3 GHz and boosts up to 3.3 GHz, providing excellent multi-threaded performance for gaming and content creation. With a 45W TDP, it is designed for thicker, performance-oriented laptop chassis with robust cooling. The processor utilizes the Socket G2 (rPGA988B), meaning it is socketed and potentially upgradeable. It includes 6MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3-1600 memory. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 handles basic display outputs and media decoding. The i7-3610QM became the standard CPU for mid-range to high-end gaming laptops in 2012, offering a perfect balance of core count, clock speed, and thermal manageability for portable computing.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Socketed design allows upgrades
- Good base clock for mobile
- Supports VT-d for virtualization
Cons
- 45W TDP requires robust cooling
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- Lacks official Windows 11 support
- HD 4000 graphics are weak for modern gaming
Pros
- High 2.7 GHz base clock
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Socketed design allows upgrades
- Good single-threaded performance
Cons
- 47W TDP requires robust cooling
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- Lacks official Windows 11 support
- HD 4600 graphics are weak for modern gaming
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-3610QM
- AMD A10-4600MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-2670QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3720QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-4500MRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3520MRival
Mainstream Mobile
Slightly faster refresh of the same chip.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-3612QMAlt
Lower 35W TDP version for thinner laptops.
Core i7-4800MQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4700MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3740QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4900MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-5550MRival
Mainstream Mobile
Slightly faster refresh of the same chip.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A legendary mobile quad-core CPU that powered a generation of gaming laptops. Still capable for basic tasks, but shows its age in modern multi-threaded workloads.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G2 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewA top-tier mobile quad-core CPU for 2013, offering excellent clock speeds and multi-threaded performance for portable workstations.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G3 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-3610QM or Core i7-4800MQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-4800MQ comes out ahead with a score of 8/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-3610QM has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-3610QM (45 W), Core i7-4800MQ (47 W).
Do Core i7-3610QM and Core i7-4800MQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-3610QM: Socket G2 (988B), Core i7-4800MQ: Socket G3), so each needs a compatible motherboard.