CPU Comparison
Core i7-3920XM vs Intel Core i7-4760HQ
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.
Better CPU clocks than 4750HQ improve responsiveness.
Gaming
Excellent for 2012 games, still handles older titles well.
Excellent integrated graphics for 2014 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 for its class.
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- Too outdated for modern AI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 handles older games well
- Comparable to GT 740M
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
- Good 3.3GHz turbo boost
- Solid quad-core performance
Cons
- Soldered BGA package
- 47W TDP runs warm
- Outdated 22nm process
- Low availability
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 i7-4760HQ
- AMD A10-7300MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4750HQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4700HQRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4770HQRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700UAlt
Modern alternative with vastly better efficiency.
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Modern premium laptop alternative.
- Alt
Massive leap in integrated graphics and efficiency.
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 well-balanced mobile processor offering a slight clock bump over the 4750HQ while retaining excellent Iris Pro graphics.
Best for: An Intel Core i7-4760HQ is a rare find today, typically only encountered when repairing older premium ultrabooks or all-in-one systems. If you are considering a purchase, the primary value lies in its Iris Pro graphics. For retro gaming or running older creative suites, the HD 5200 combined with the quad-core CPU still provides a surprisingly capable experience. However, the 47-watt TDP means battery life in older laptops will be poor, and thermals can be an issue if the machine hasn't been cleaned and repasted. If you are sourcing this chip for a board-level repair, ensure you have the correct BGA reballing equipment, as it is permanently soldered. For everyday use, modern budget laptops will outperform this chip in efficiency and single-core tasks. Only invest in a system with this CPU if it is exceptionally cheap, serving as a secondary device for light media creation or nostalgic gaming sessions.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-3920XM or Intel Core i7-4760HQ?
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 i7-4760HQ?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4760HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 72/100 among Core i7-3920XM and Intel Core i7-4760HQ.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4760HQ has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-3920XM (55 W), Intel Core i7-4760HQ (47 W).
Do Core i7-3920XM and Intel Core i7-4760HQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-3920XM: Intel Socket G2 (988B), Intel Core i7-4760HQ: 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 i7-4760HQ (8,100). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.