CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4558U vs Core i7-4600U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4558U is a specialized mobile processor launched in June 2013 as part of the 4th Generation Haswell-ULT family. Designed for premium thin-and-light laptops, it operates at a higher 28-watt TDP compared to standard 15W U-series processors. Built on the 22nm process, it features 2 cores and 4 threads. The increased power envelope allows for a significantly higher base clock of 2.8 GHz and a boost clock of up to 3.3 GHz. It includes 4MB of L3 cache and integrates Intel Iris Graphics 5100, which offers superior graphical performance compared to standard HD graphics. This makes the i7-4558U uniquely capable of handling light gaming and hardware-accelerated video editing without a dedicated GPU. While it runs warmer than standard ultrabook chips, its combination of high clock speeds and powerful integrated graphics makes it a sought-after option for compact, high-performance portable systems.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
High clock speeds ensure good performance in office apps.
Gaming
Iris 5100 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
Virtualization
Capable of running one light VM, but limited by 2 cores.
Efficiency
28W TDP is warmer than 15W parts but justified by performance.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
No data
Content Creation
No data
Gaming
- Iris 5100 is a major step up from HD 4400
- Can run older games at low settings
- Not suitable for modern AAA titles
No data
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- High 3.3 GHz boost clock
- Iris 5100 graphics with eDRAM
- 28W TDP allows good sustained performance
- Excellent single-core speed
Cons
- Runs warmer than 15W U-series chips
- Soldered to motherboard
- 22nm process is outdated
- Only 2 cores
Pros
- Excellent power efficiency for 2013
- HD 5000 graphics offer decent legacy media playback
- Good single-core burst performance
- Enabled thinner laptop designs
Cons
- Only 2 physical cores
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Lacks official Windows 11 support
- DDR3 memory is obsolete
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-4558U
- AMD A10-5745MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4500URival
Mobile
- AMD A8-5557MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4258URival
Mobile
- AMD A10-5757MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-5557UAlt
5th Gen successor with Iris 6100 graphics.
- Alt
Vastly superior performance and efficiency for Mac users.
Compare head-to-head - AMD Ryzen 7 4800UAlt
Much better multi-core performance in a similar power bracket.
Modern alternative with massive IPC and graphics improvements.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Modern budget alternative with 6 cores.
Core i7-4600U
- AMD A10-5745MRival
Ultra-Low Power Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4500URival
Ultra-Low Power Mobile
- AMD A8-5557MRival
Ultra-Low Power Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4200URival
Ultra-Low Power Mobile
- AMD A6-5357MRival
Ultra-Low Power Mobile
- Intel Core i7-5600UAlt
Broadwell successor with better efficiency and performance.
- Intel Core i5-4300UAlt
Similar performance for a lower price point.
Previous generation Ivy Bridge alternative.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-4650UAlt
Slightly lower base clock but otherwise nearly identical.
Our Verdict on Each
A premium 28W mobile CPU that combined high clock speeds with Iris graphics, delivering an excellent balance of CPU and GPU performance for 2013.
Best for: If you are considering a laptop with the Intel Core i7-4558U, you are likely looking at a used MacBook Pro or a premium ultrabook. This processor remains capable for everyday productivity, programming, and light 1080p video editing. The inclusion of Iris 5100 graphics provides a noticeable boost in graphical tasks compared to standard U-series chips. It is an excellent choice for users who need a compact, moderately powerful machine without paying the premium for modern hardware. However, be aware that it is an older Intel-based Mac, meaning it will eventually lose macOS support. Avoid this processor if you need to run modern AAA games or heavy 3D rendering workloads. It is best purchased at a discount for general use.
Read the full reviewA capable ultrabook chip for 2013 that offered great battery life and improved graphics, but its dual-core design is severely outdated for modern workloads.
Best for: Purchasing a cheap used laptop for basic Linux computing
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4558U or Core i7-4600U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-4600U comes out ahead with a score of 6/10. 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, Intel Core i7-4558U or Core i7-4600U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4558U leads with a gaming performance score of 25/100 among Intel Core i7-4558U and Core i7-4600U.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-4600U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-4558U (28 W), Core i7-4600U (15 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4558U and Core i7-4600U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-4558U: Intel BGA 1168, Core i7-4600U: BGA 1168), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-4600U posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-4600U (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.