CPU Comparison
Core i7-4600M vs Core i7-4700MQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4600M is a mainstream mobile processor launched in September 2013. Based on the Haswell architecture, this 22nm dual-core CPU features Hyper-Threading, allowing it to process 4 threads simultaneously. It operates at a high base frequency of 2.9 GHz and boosts up to 3.6 GHz, prioritizing single-threaded performance for everyday computing and business applications. With a 37W TDP, it is designed for standard laptop chassis with active cooling. The processor utilizes the Socket G3 (rPGA946B), meaning it is socketed and potentially upgradeable, a rarity in modern laptops. It includes 4MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3-1600 memory. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 4600 handles basic display outputs and media decoding. The i7-4600M was a popular choice for mid-range business laptops and budget gaming rigs where a dedicated GPU handled graphics, offering a strong balance of clock speed and cost.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- High 2.9 GHz base clock
- Socketed design allows upgrades
- Good single-threaded performance
- Supports VT-d for virtualization
Cons
- Only 2 physical cores
- 37W TDP limits battery life compared to U-series
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- HD 4600 graphics are weak for gaming
Pros
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Socketed design allows upgrades
- Good base clock for mobile
- Supports VT-d for virtualization
Cons
- 47W TDP requires robust cooling
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- Lacks official Windows 11 support
- HD 4600 graphics are weak for modern gaming
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-4600M
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4700MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-5550MRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i5-4200MRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3520MRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4610MAlt
Slightly faster clock speed version of the same chip.
Core i7-4700MQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3630QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4800MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-5550MRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i5-4200MRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4710MQAlt
Slightly faster refresh of the same chip.
- Intel Core i7-4702MQAlt
Lower 37W TDP version for thinner laptops.
Our Verdict on Each
A fast dual-core mobile CPU for 2013, offering excellent single-threaded performance, but its lack of physical cores limits modern multi-tasking.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G3 laptop on the cheap
Read the full reviewA legendary mobile quad-core CPU that powered a generation of gaming laptops. Still capable for basic tasks, but shows its age in modern multi-threaded workloads.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G3 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-4600M or Core i7-4700MQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-4700MQ 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 uses less power?
The Core i7-4600M has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-4600M (37 W), Core i7-4700MQ (47 W).
Do Core i7-4600M and Core i7-4700MQ use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Socket G3 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which has more cores?
The Core i7-4700MQ has the most cores. Core counts: Core i7-4600M (2 cores), Core i7-4700MQ (4 cores).