CPU Comparison
Core i7-3840QM vs Intel Core i7-4702HQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-3840QM is a high-end mobile processor from the Ivy Bridge generation, designed to deliver robust performance for demanding laptop users. Released in September 2012, this quad-core CPU operates at a base frequency of 2.8 GHz and can boost up to 3.8 GHz using Intel's Turbo Boost technology. With eight threads thanks to Hyper-Threading, it handles multitasking and parallel workloads efficiently. The processor is built on a 22-nanometer manufacturing process, marking a significant shrink from the previous 32nm Sandy Bridge architecture. This allowed Intel to pack 1.4 billion transistors into a 160 mm² die while maintaining a reasonable 45-watt thermal design power. Featuring 8 MB of L3 cache, the i7-3840QM ensures quick data access for demanding applications. It also integrates Intel HD Graphics 4000, providing capable everyday graphics performance without needing a discrete GPU. This specific BGA variant is soldered directly to the motherboard, making it common in thinner, high-performance laptops of its era where upgradeability was sacrificed for compact form factors.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Still capable for basic office tasks and web browsing.
Handles everyday office multitasking well.
Gaming
Handles older or lightweight games well but struggles with modern AAA titles.
Only suitable for very old or lightweight games.
Virtualization
VT-x support makes it suitable for light VMs on the go.
Capable of basic VMs but limited by clock speed.
Efficiency
22nm was efficient for 2012, but modern 10nm/Intel 4 chips are far superior.
Better than 47W parts, but still outdated.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration hardware
- Too slow for modern AI workloads
- No AI acceleration
Content Creation
Gaming
- HD 4000 is not suitable for modern gaming
- Requires discrete GPU for AAA titles
- Fine for retro and indie games
- HD 4600 is not for gaming
- Pairs poorly with modern GPUs
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent performance for 2012 mobile
- 22nm process improved efficiency
- 8MB L3 cache
- Hyper-Threading support
Cons
- Soldered BGA package prevents upgrades
- Lacks AVX2 instruction set
- Weak integrated graphics by modern standards
- End-of-life with no security updates
Pros
- Lower 37W TDP for slim laptops
- Quad-core multitasking
- Good battery life for its era
- Supports VT-d and AES-NI
Cons
- Lower clock speeds
- Soldered BGA package
- No eDRAM
- Outdated 22nm process
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-3840QM
- AMD A10-4600MRival
Mobile
Newer Haswell architecture with better performance.
Compare head-to-headCheaper dual-core alternative from the same generation.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-4702HQ
- AMD A10-5745MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4500URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4200URival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3612QMRival
Mobile
Slightly faster low-TDP alternative.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Modern alternative with massive efficiency gains.
- Intel Core i5-8250UAlt
Modern quad-core alternative with much better battery life.
If higher TDP and cooling is available.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Vastly superior thin-and-light performance.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
For its time, the i7-3840QM was a mobile powerhouse offering excellent multi-threaded performance, though its soldered BGA package limits modern upgradeability.
Best for: Repairing an existing 2012-era premium laptop.
Read the full reviewA lower-power Haswell variant that brought quad-core capabilities to thinner laptops, though easily outclassed by modern chips.
Best for: If you encounter a laptop with an Intel Core i7-4702HQ today, it should be viewed strictly as a budget-friendly secondary device. The processor is end-of-life, meaning it will not receive modern optimization updates, and its 22nm process is inherently less efficient than current offerings. For basic tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption, this CPU still has enough life left to provide a smooth experience. However, its lower clock speeds mean it will struggle with modern multitasking or heavy workloads. If you are repairing a legacy system, this chip is a drop-in replacement for BGA 1364 motherboards, but you must ensure your cooling solution is pristine, as even 37 watts can throttle aggressively in a degraded laptop chassis. Avoid paying premium prices for this outdated hardware; only pursue it if the price reflects its retro capability and limited futureproofing.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-3840QM or Intel Core i7-4702HQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-3840QM comes out ahead with a score of 7.5/10. 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, Core i7-3840QM or Intel Core i7-4702HQ?
For gaming, the Core i7-3840QM leads with a gaming performance score of 60/100 among Core i7-3840QM and Intel Core i7-4702HQ.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4702HQ has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-3840QM (45 W), Intel Core i7-4702HQ (37 W).
Do Core i7-3840QM and Intel Core i7-4702HQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-3840QM: Intel BGA 1224, Intel Core i7-4702HQ: Intel BGA 1364), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-3840QM posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-3840QM (8,100), Intel Core i7-4702HQ (7,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.