CPU Comparison
Core i7-4700EQ vs Intel Core i7-4860EQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4700EQ is a quad-core embedded mobile processor launched in May 2013. Based on the Haswell architecture, this 22nm CPU is designed for systems requiring long-term availability and high reliability, such as industrial PCs, digital signage, and medical equipment. It features 4 cores and 8 threads, operating at a base clock of 2.4 GHz with a maximum turbo frequency of 3.4 GHz. The 'EQ' suffix denotes an embedded BGA package, meaning it is soldered directly to the motherboard. With a 47W TDP, it balances robust computing power with thermal constraints typical of mobile and compact embedded environments. The processor includes 8MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3-1600 memory. It integrates Intel HD Graphics 4600, providing competent multimedia capabilities. The i7-4700EQ is well-suited for edge computing applications that require sustained multi-threaded processing and hardware virtualization without the need for discrete graphics.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles multi-threaded embedded applications effectively.
Gaming
Capable of running older titles at 1080p via integrated graphics.
Virtualization
Suitable for lightweight embedded virtualization.
Efficiency
22nm process is outdated but reliable for fixed installations.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
No data
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Lacks modern instruction sets
Content Creation
No data
Gaming
No data
- HD 5200 handles legacy games well
- Not suitable for modern AAA titles
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Guaranteed long-term embedded availability
- Strong quad-core multi-threading
- 8MB L3 cache
- Supports AVX2 for industrial calculations
Cons
- 47W TDP requires active cooling
- Soldered BGA package
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- Hard to source for consumers
Pros
- 128MB L4 eDRAM boosts graphics
- Active production for embedded
- 8MB L3 cache
- Quad-core multi-threading
Cons
- BGA soldered, no upgrades
- Outdated 22nm process
- Low base clock
- Limited to DDR3
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-4700EQ
- AMD Embedded R-464LRival
Embedded Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4700HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3610QERival
Embedded Mobile
- AMD Embedded A10-5750MRival
Embedded Mobile
- Intel Xeon E3-1265L v3Rival
Embedded Server
- Intel Core i5-4200EAlt
More budget-friendly dual-core embedded option.
- Intel Core i7-4700ECAlt
Higher 65W TDP version for better sustained clocks.
Intel Core i7-4860EQ
- AMD Embedded R-SeriesRival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-4700EQRival
Embedded
- Intel Xeon E3-1265L v3Rival
Workstation
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4770TRival
Desktop
Newer Broadwell embedded part with better efficiency.
Compare head-to-headModern embedded alternative with vastly superior performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen Embedded V1605BAlt
Excellent modern alternative with Vega graphics.
- Intel Xeon E3-1275 v3Alt
If socketed server hardware is preferred.
Our Verdict on Each
A dependable embedded quad-core CPU that offers solid multi-threaded performance for legacy industrial systems.
Best for: Sourcing replacements for legacy industrial boards
Read the full reviewA highly capable embedded processor leveraging unique eDRAM technology to deliver reliable graphics and compute performance for long-life cycle applications.
Best for: Finding an Intel Core i7-4860EQ on the consumer market today is extremely rare, as it was never intended for standard DIY desktop builds or mainstream retail laptops. If you are sourcing replacement parts for an industrial system or repairing legacy embedded hardware, this processor provides excellent reliability and the unique advantage of HD 5200 graphics with eDRAM. For general consumers or modern system builders, investing in a 22nm Haswell-era chip makes little economic sense due to the lack of upgradeability and outdated platform features. Instead, seek modern alternatives with better efficiency. Purchase this only if maintaining an existing specialized system that explicitly requires the BGA 1364 socket and 47-watt thermal profile, as newer parts cannot be retrofitted into these proprietary embedded motherboard designs.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-4700EQ or Intel Core i7-4860EQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4860EQ 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 i7-4700EQ or Intel Core i7-4860EQ?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4860EQ leads with a gaming performance score of 60/100 among Core i7-4700EQ and Intel Core i7-4860EQ.
Do Core i7-4700EQ and Intel Core i7-4860EQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-4700EQ: BGA 1364, Intel Core i7-4860EQ: Intel BGA 1364), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-4860EQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-4700EQ (0), Intel Core i7-4860EQ (7,800). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.