CPU Comparison
Core i7-4710MQ vs Core i7-4712MQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4710MQ is a high-performance mobile processor launched in April 2014 as a refresh to the Haswell lineup. This 22nm quad-core CPU features Hyper-Threading, allowing it to process 8 threads concurrently. It operates at a base frequency of 2.5 GHz and boosts up to 3.5 GHz, offering a slight frequency bump over the i7-4700MQ. With a 47W TDP, it is designed for standard performance-oriented laptop chassis with active 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 i7-4710MQ became a staple in mid-range gaming laptops throughout 2014, providing excellent multi-threaded performance for gaming, streaming, and content creation on the go.
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
- Lower 37W TDP for thinner designs
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Socketed design allows upgrades
- Good balance of power and efficiency
Cons
- Low 2.3 GHz base clock
- Uses obsolete DDR3 memory
- Lacks official Windows 11 support
- HD 4600 graphics are weak
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-4710MQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4700MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4712MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4800MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4720HQAlt
Next-gen soldered Broadwell alternative.
Core i7-4712MQ
- AMD FX-7600PRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4702MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4710MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4712HQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A10-5745MRival
Ultra-Low Power Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4720HQAlt
Next-gen Broadwell soldered alternative.
Our Verdict on Each
A solid 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 great low-power quad-core mobile CPU for 2014, offering excellent efficiency, but its lower clocks limit single-threaded performance.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G3 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-4710MQ or Core i7-4712MQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-4710MQ 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 i7-4712MQ has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-4710MQ (47 W), Core i7-4712MQ (37 W).
Do Core i7-4710MQ and Core i7-4712MQ use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Socket G3 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.