CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4702HQ vs Intel Core i7-4710HQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4702HQ is a fourth-generation mobile processor introduced in May 2013, optimized for thin-and-light performance laptops requiring a lower thermal footprint. As a variant of the Haswell family, it delivers four cores and eight threads, ensuring robust multitasking capabilities despite its constrained power envelope. Operating at a base clock of 2.2 GHz with a maximum turbo frequency of 3.2 GHz, it intentionally steps down from the 4700HQ to accommodate slimmer chassis designs. It features Intel HD Graphics 4600, which handles everyday multimedia tasks efficiently, though it lacks the advanced Crystalwell eDRAM found in higher-tier models. With a reduced TDP of 37 watts, it became a favorite for premium ultrabooks and portable workstations where battery life and thermals were prioritized. Though now end-of-life, it provided an excellent balance of performance and portability for users needing workstation-class multitasking in a highly mobile form factor.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles everyday office multitasking well.
Good multi-threaded performance for everyday apps.
Gaming
Only suitable for very old or lightweight games.
Handles older eSports titles but bottlenecks modern GPUs.
Virtualization
Capable of basic VMs but limited by clock speed.
Can handle basic VM setups.
Efficiency
Better than 47W parts, but still outdated.
47W TDP is outdated by modern mobile standards.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration
- No AI acceleration
Content Creation
Gaming
- HD 4600 is not for gaming
- Pairs poorly with modern GPUs
- Bottlenecks modern GPUs
- Great for 2014-era titles
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Lower 37W TDP for slim laptops
- Quad-core multitasking
- Good battery life for its era
- Supports VT-d and AES-NI
Cons
- Lower clock speeds
- Soldered BGA package
- No eDRAM
- Outdated 22nm process
Pros
- Reliable quad-core performance
- 100MHz bump over 4700HQ
- Good turbo headroom
- Widely compatible laptop ecosystem
Cons
- Soldered to motherboard
- No eDRAM
- Outdated 22nm process
- Poor efficiency by modern standards
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-4702HQ
- AMD A10-5745MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4500URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4200URival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3612QMRival
Mobile
Slightly faster low-TDP alternative.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Modern alternative with massive efficiency gains.
- Intel Core i5-8250UAlt
Modern quad-core alternative with much better battery life.
If higher TDP and cooling is available.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Vastly superior thin-and-light performance.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-4710HQ
- AMD A10-7300MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4700HQRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-4210HRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4720HQRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-9300HAlt
Modern budget gaming alternative.
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600HAlt
Vastly superior modern mobile performance.
- Alt
Massive leap in efficiency.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A lower-power Haswell variant that brought quad-core capabilities to thinner laptops, though easily outclassed by modern chips.
Best for: If you encounter a laptop with an Intel Core i7-4702HQ today, it should be viewed strictly as a budget-friendly secondary device. The processor is end-of-life, meaning it will not receive modern optimization updates, and its 22nm process is inherently less efficient than current offerings. For basic tasks like web browsing, document editing, and media consumption, this CPU still has enough life left to provide a smooth experience. However, its lower clock speeds mean it will struggle with modern multitasking or heavy workloads. If you are repairing a legacy system, this chip is a drop-in replacement for BGA 1364 motherboards, but you must ensure your cooling solution is pristine, as even 37 watts can throttle aggressively in a degraded laptop chassis. Avoid paying premium prices for this outdated hardware; only pursue it if the price reflects its retro capability and limited futureproofing.
Read the full reviewA solid Haswell refresh that provided reliable quad-core performance for mid-2010s gaming laptops.
Best for: If you are considering a laptop with an Intel Core i7-4710HQ today, it should strictly be a budget-conscious purchase, likely under two hundred dollars. The processor is end-of-life and lacks the modern efficiency and single-core speed required for today's demanding software. However, for light office work, web browsing, or playing older games like CS:GO or League of Legends, it still performs admirably. If you are repairing a laptop, this chip is a direct drop-in replacement for other 47-watt Haswell HQ processors on BGA 1364 motherboards, though soldering is required. Ensure the laptop's cooling system is completely functional, as a 47W chip will overheat quickly in a clogged heatsink. Do not buy this expecting to run modern AAA titles or edit 4K video. Treat it as a capable legacy machine for basic productivity, retro gaming, or as an educational tool for learning computer hardware repair.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4702HQ or Intel Core i7-4710HQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4710HQ comes out ahead with a score of 7/10. 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 i7-4702HQ or Intel Core i7-4710HQ?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4710HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i7-4702HQ and Intel Core i7-4710HQ.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4702HQ has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-4702HQ (37 W), Intel Core i7-4710HQ (47 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4702HQ and Intel Core i7-4710HQ use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1364 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-4710HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-4702HQ (7,000), Intel Core i7-4710HQ (7,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.