CPU Comparison
Core i7-3615QM vs Core i7-7820HQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-3615QM 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 key differentiator of this SKU is its exclusive use of the BGA 1224 socket, meaning it is soldered directly to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded. 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 i7-3615QM was a popular choice for Apple's 2012 MacBook Pro lineup and other premium laptops where space-saving and durability were prioritized over modularity.
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Enabled thinner laptop designs
- Good base clock for mobile
- Supports VT-d for virtualization
Cons
- 45W TDP requires robust cooling
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- HD 4000 graphics are weak for modern gaming
Pros
- Good 3.9 GHz single-core performance
- Full 8MB L3 cache
- Configurable TDP for laptop designs
- Includes Quick Sync for media
Cons
- Only 4 cores
- High 45W TDP limits battery life
- Soldered to motherboard
- Cannot be overclocked
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-3615QM
- AMD A10-4600MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3610QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-2720QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3612QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-4500MRival
Mainstream Mobile
Slightly faster refresh of the same BGA chip.
Compare head-to-head
Core i7-7820HQ
- Intel Core i7-7700HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7920HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7820HKRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD FX-9800PRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i5-7300HQRival
Mainstream Mobile
Next-gen 6-core upgrade with much better multi-threading.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HAlt
Newer alternative with similar performance.
- Intel Core i7-7660UAlt
Lower power alternative for thinner laptops.
Our Verdict on Each
A solid mobile quad-core CPU that powered premium laptops. Still capable for basic tasks, but its soldered design limits upgrades.
Best for: Purchasing a used 2012 MacBook Pro
Read the full reviewA solid and popular mobile CPU in 2017, offering great performance for gaming and professional apps, though 4 cores show their age today.
Best for: Buying a used 2017 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Do Core i7-3615QM and Core i7-7820HQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-3615QM: BGA 1224, Core i7-7820HQ: Intel BGA 1440), so each needs a compatible motherboard.