CPU Comparison
Core i7-4712MQ vs Core i7-4800MQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4712MQ is a high-performance mobile processor launched in April 2014 as a low-power 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 2.3 GHz and boosts up to 3.3 GHz. The key differentiator of this SKU is its 37W TDP, significantly lower than the standard 47W found on the i7-4710MQ, making it ideal for thinner gaming laptops and portable workstations. 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 i7-4712MQ offered an excellent compromise for users who wanted quad-core multi-threaded performance without the extreme heat and battery drain of higher-wattage mobile chips.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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
Pros
- High 2.7 GHz base clock
- Solid quad-core multi-threading
- Socketed design allows upgrades
- Good single-threaded performance
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 i7-4712MQ
- 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.
Core i7-4800MQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4700MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3740QMRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4900MQRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD A8-5550MRival
Mainstream Mobile
Slightly faster refresh of the same chip.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A 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 reviewA top-tier mobile quad-core CPU for 2013, offering excellent clock speeds and multi-threaded performance for portable workstations.
Best for: Upgrading an old Socket G3 laptop for cheap
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-4712MQ or Core i7-4800MQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-4800MQ comes out ahead with a score of 8/10. 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 i7-4712MQ (37 W), Core i7-4800MQ (47 W).
Do Core i7-4712MQ and Core i7-4800MQ use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Socket G3 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.