CPU Comparison
Core i7-3840QM vs Intel Core i7-4960HQ
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.
The 8MB cache helps with productivity tasks.
Gaming
Handles older or lightweight games well but struggles with modern AAA titles.
Good for older games, but lacks power for modern AAA titles.
Virtualization
VT-x support makes it suitable for light VMs on the go.
Handles VMs well for legacy systems.
Efficiency
22nm was efficient for 2012, but modern 10nm/Intel 4 chips are far superior.
22nm process is less efficient than modern alternatives.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration hardware
- Too slow for modern AI workloads
- No AI-specific hardware
- Slow inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- HD 4000 is not suitable for modern gaming
- Requires discrete GPU for AAA titles
- Fine for retro and indie games
- eDRAM helps with frame rates
- Adequate for indie games
- Not suitable for modern high-end gaming
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
- Still active for embedded markets
- 8MB L3 cache
- Strong Iris Pro integrated graphics
Cons
- Outdated 22nm process
- High 47W TDP
- Expensive if bought new for embedded use
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 i7-4960HQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4700MQRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3632QMRival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 800Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Vastly superior efficiency and multi-core performance.
- Intel Core i7-1185G7Alt
Modern architecture with much faster single-core speeds.
- Alt
Incredible performance per watt for mobile workstations.
Compare head-to-head Hybrid architecture offers significantly better multi-threading.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5625UAlt
Modern budget alternative with strong battery life.
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 robust mobile processor that still sees use in embedded systems due to its reliable 22nm architecture and eDRAM.
Best for: Industrial or legacy system replacement. When considering the purchase of a system with the Core i7-4960HQ today, the context is crucial. For modern consumer use, it is heavily outdated and outperformed by even low-tier contemporary processors. However, because it remains listed as active for embedded markets, it may still be relevant for specific industrial systems requiring legacy support. For general consumers, buying a used laptop with this CPU should only be done at a rock-bottom price. It remains functional for basic computing tasks and older games, but its power efficiency pales in comparison to current architectures. Do not invest in this platform for a primary work or gaming machine today.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-3840QM or Intel Core i7-4960HQ?
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 i7-4960HQ?
For gaming, the Core i7-3840QM leads with a gaming performance score of 60/100 among Core i7-3840QM and Intel Core i7-4960HQ.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-3840QM has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-3840QM (45 W), Intel Core i7-4960HQ (47 W).
Do Core i7-3840QM and Intel Core i7-4960HQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-3840QM: Intel BGA 1224, Intel Core i7-4960HQ: Intel BGA 1364), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-4960HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-3840QM (8,100), Intel Core i7-4960HQ (8,600). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.