CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4750HQ vs Intel Core i7-4860EQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4750HQ is a high-end mobile processor launched in May 2013, notable for being one of the first to feature Intel's Crystalwell architecture with integrated eDRAM. Designed for premium laptops and mobile workstations, it boasts four cores and eight threads, handling intensive multitasking with ease. Operating at a base clock of 2.0 GHz and boosting up to 3.2 GHz, it prioritizes graphical prowess over raw CPU clock speed. The integration of Intel HD Graphics 5200, backed by 128MB of L4 eDRAM, revolutionized mobile integrated graphics, allowing thin laptops to game at 1080p without a discrete GPU. With a 47-watt TDP, it required substantial cooling but delivered unprecedented performance for its size. Although end-of-life, the 4750HQ remains a landmark chip, demonstrating Intel's commitment to pushing the boundaries of integrated graphics performance and setting the stage for future Iris Xe designs.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong quad-core performance, slightly limited by 2.0GHz base.
Handles multi-threaded embedded applications effectively.
Gaming
Excellent integrated graphics for older 1080p titles.
Capable of running older titles at 1080p via integrated graphics.
Virtualization
Capable of running standard VMs.
Suitable for lightweight embedded virtualization.
Efficiency
47W TDP is standard but outdated.
22nm process is outdated but reliable for fixed installations.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Lacks modern instruction sets
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Pro 5200 rivals entry-level discrete GPUs
- Great for 2013 games
- HD 5200 handles legacy games well
- Not suitable for modern AAA titles
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Iris Pro 5200 graphics
- 128MB L4 eDRAM
- Quad-core multitasking
- Good turbo boost headroom
Cons
- Low 2.0GHz base clock
- 47W TDP runs warm
- Soldered BGA package
- Outdated 22nm process
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- Outdated 22nm process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
Intel Core i7-4750HQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4700HQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3635QMRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4760HQRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700UAlt
Modern alternative with excellent integrated graphics.
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Massive leap in mobile efficiency and iGPU.
- Alt
Modern premium laptop alternative.
Compare head-to-head
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 groundbreaking mobile processor that brought console-class integrated graphics to thin laptops.
Best for: Finding a device with an Intel Core i7-4750HQ today is rare, as it was an expensive, premium part upon release. If you locate a used laptop with this chip, it is likely an older MacBook Pro or a high-end ultrabook. The integrated HD 5200 graphics still hold up surprisingly well for older games and media consumption, making it a decent option for a portable retro gaming machine. However, the 2.0 GHz base clock means CPU-heavy tasks will feel sluggish compared to modern processors. If you are repairing a vintage premium laptop, this CPU is essential for restoring functionality. Do not pay a premium price for a system with this processor today. Its value lies strictly in nostalgia or maintaining a legacy creative workstation. For modern efficiency and performance, even a low-end current-generation Celeron will outclass it in battery life and single-core speed. Approach it as a collector’s item or budget retro rig.
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 faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-4750HQ or Intel Core i7-4860EQ?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4750HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 70/100 among Intel Core i7-4750HQ and Intel Core i7-4860EQ.
Do Intel Core i7-4750HQ and Intel Core i7-4860EQ 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 i7-4750HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-4750HQ (8,000), Intel Core i7-4860EQ (7,800). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.