CPU Comparison
Core i7-4700MQ vs Core i7-7820HQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4700MQ is a high-performance mobile processor launched in May 2013. Based on the Haswell architecture, this 22nm quad-core CPU features Hyper-Threading, allowing it to process 8 threads simultaneously. It operates at a base frequency of 2.4 GHz and boosts up to 3.4 GHz, providing excellent multi-threaded performance for gaming and content creation. With a 47W TDP, it is designed for thicker, performance-oriented laptop chassis with robust cooling. The processor utilizes the Socket G3 (rPGA946B), meaning it is socketed and potentially upgradeable. It includes 6MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3-1600 memory. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 4600 handles basic display outputs and media decoding. The i7-4700MQ became the standard CPU for mid-range to high-end gaming laptops in 2013, offering a perfect balance of core count, clock speed, and thermal manageability for portable computing.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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
Pros
- Good 3.9 GHz single-core performance
- Full 8MB L3 cache
- Configurable TDP for laptop designs
- Includes Quick Sync for media
Cons
- Only 4 cores
- High 45W TDP limits battery life
- Soldered to motherboard
- Cannot be overclocked
Competitors & Alternatives
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.
Core i7-7820HQ
- Intel Core i7-7700HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7920HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7820HKRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD FX-9800PRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i5-7300HQRival
Mainstream Mobile
Next-gen 6-core upgrade with much better multi-threading.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HAlt
Newer alternative with similar performance.
- Intel Core i7-7660UAlt
Lower power alternative for thinner laptops.
Our Verdict on Each
A 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 reviewA solid and popular mobile CPU in 2017, offering great performance for gaming and professional apps, though 4 cores show their age today.
Best for: Buying a used 2017 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-7820HQ has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-4700MQ (47 W), Core i7-7820HQ (45 W).
Do Core i7-4700MQ and Core i7-7820HQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-4700MQ: Socket G3, Core i7-7820HQ: Intel BGA 1440), so each needs a compatible motherboard.