CPU Comparison
Core i7-3920XM vs Intel Core i7-4750HQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-3920XM Extreme Edition is a top-tier mobile processor launched in April 2012 based on the Ivy Bridge architecture. As an 'XM' series chip, it features an unlocked multiplier, a rarity for mobile CPUs, allowing enthusiasts to overclock it beyond its factory 2.9 GHz base clock. With 4 cores and 8 threads, it reaches up to 3.8 GHz via Turbo Boost. Built on the 22nm process, it packs 1.4 billion transistors into a 160 mm² die. Unlike standard mobile chips, it carries a 55W TDP to accommodate the increased power limits and overclocking headroom. It includes 8MB of L3 cache and integrates Intel HD 4000 graphics. This processor was the absolute pinnacle of mobile computing performance in 2012, designed for the most expensive, thick, and heavy gaming laptops and mobile workstations where cooling capacity allowed for sustained high-frequency operation and manual tuning by power users.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
High clocks keep it relevant for basic modern tasks.
Strong quad-core performance, slightly limited by 2.0GHz base.
Gaming
Excellent for 2012 games, still handles older titles well.
Excellent integrated graphics for older 1080p titles.
Virtualization
Handles VMs well thanks to high clock speeds and VT-d.
Capable of running standard VMs.
Efficiency
55W TDP makes it very power-hungry for a mobile chip.
47W TDP is standard but outdated.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- Too outdated for modern AI
- No AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- High single-core speed for the era
- Requires discrete GPU for serious gaming
- Can be overclocked for extra FPS
- Iris Pro 5200 rivals entry-level discrete GPUs
- Great for 2013 games
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
- Highest clock speeds for 2012 mobile
- Socketed design
- Excellent multi-threaded performance for its era
Cons
- Very high 55W TDP
- Requires massive laptop cooling
- Lacks modern instruction sets
- Extremely expensive at launch
Pros
- Iris Pro 5200 graphics
- 128MB L4 eDRAM
- Quad-core multitasking
- Good turbo boost headroom
Cons
- Low 2.0GHz base clock
- 47W TDP runs warm
- Soldered BGA package
- Outdated 22nm process
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-3920XM
- AMD A8-4500MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3840QMAlt
Locked but cooler running alternative.
Newer Haswell-based Extreme Edition.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-4750HQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4700HQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3635QMRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4760HQRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700UAlt
Modern alternative with excellent integrated graphics.
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Massive leap in mobile efficiency and iGPU.
- Alt
Modern premium laptop alternative.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A groundbreaking mobile CPU that brought unlocked overclocking to laptops, offering unmatched performance for its time, albeit with high heat output.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G2 extreme laptop.
Read the full reviewA groundbreaking mobile processor that brought console-class integrated graphics to thin laptops.
Best for: Finding a device with an Intel Core i7-4750HQ today is rare, as it was an expensive, premium part upon release. If you locate a used laptop with this chip, it is likely an older MacBook Pro or a high-end ultrabook. The integrated HD 5200 graphics still hold up surprisingly well for older games and media consumption, making it a decent option for a portable retro gaming machine. However, the 2.0 GHz base clock means CPU-heavy tasks will feel sluggish compared to modern processors. If you are repairing a vintage premium laptop, this CPU is essential for restoring functionality. Do not pay a premium price for a system with this processor today. Its value lies strictly in nostalgia or maintaining a legacy creative workstation. For modern efficiency and performance, even a low-end current-generation Celeron will outclass it in battery life and single-core speed. Approach it as a collector’s item or budget retro rig.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-3920XM or Intel Core i7-4750HQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-3920XM 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 is faster for gaming, Core i7-3920XM or Intel Core i7-4750HQ?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4750HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 70/100 among Core i7-3920XM and Intel Core i7-4750HQ.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4750HQ has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-3920XM (55 W), Intel Core i7-4750HQ (47 W).
Do Core i7-3920XM and Intel Core i7-4750HQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-3920XM: Intel Socket G2 (988B), Intel Core i7-4750HQ: Intel BGA 1364), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-3920XM posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-3920XM (9,000), Intel Core i7-4750HQ (8,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.