CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4770HQ vs Intel Core i7-4850HQ
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4770HQ is a high-performance mobile processor launched in July 2014, representing one of the final iterations of the Haswell Crystalwell family. Designed for premium mobile workstations and high-end laptops, it features four cores and eight threads, delivering robust computational power. Operating at a base clock of 2.2 GHz with a maximum turbo frequency of 3.4 GHz, it provides a noticeable CPU speed improvement over earlier Crystalwell models. The defining feature remains the inclusion of Intel HD Graphics 5200, supported by 128MB of integrated L4 eDRAM, ensuring exceptional graphics performance without a discrete GPU. This combination made it a favorite for creative professionals who needed portable machines capable of handling 1080p video editing and 3D rendering. With a 47-watt TDP, it demanded active cooling but packed immense capability into a mobile form factor. Though end-of-life, it was a premier choice for power users during the mid-2010s.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
High turbo clocks ensure smooth application performance.
High turbo clocks ensure smooth performance.
Gaming
Strong integrated graphics performance for older titles.
Excellent integrated graphics for 2013 titles.
Virtualization
Handles standard VMs well.
Handles standard VMs well.
Efficiency
47W TDP is standard but outdated.
47W TDP is standard but outdated.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- No AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Pro 5200 handles 1080p low settings well
- Rivals entry-level discrete GPUs
- Iris Pro handles older 1080p games well
- Rivals entry-level discrete GPUs
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- High 3.4GHz turbo boost
- Iris Pro 5200 graphics
- 128MB L4 eDRAM
- Strong quad-core performance
Cons
- Soldered BGA package
- 47W TDP requires good cooling
- Outdated 22nm process
- End-of-life
Pros
- High 3.5GHz turbo boost
- Iris Pro 5200 graphics
- 128MB L4 eDRAM
- Strong quad-core performance
Cons
- Soldered BGA package
- 47W TDP requires good cooling
- Outdated 22nm process
- End-of-life
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-4770HQ
- AMD A10-7300MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4760HQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4700HQRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4850HQRival
Mobile
Slightly faster Crystalwell model.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HAlt
Modern mobile powerhouse alternative.
Modern alternative with massive multi-core gains.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Modern creator laptop alternative.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-4850HQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4750HQRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3840QMRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4860HQRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HAlt
Modern mobile powerhouse alternative.
Modern alternative with massive multi-core gains.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Modern creator laptop alternative.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A powerful late-cycle Haswell chip that balanced high CPU clocks with class-leading Iris Pro integrated graphics.
Best for: Encountering a laptop with an Intel Core i7-4770HQ usually means looking at a used MacBook Pro or a premium Windows laptop from 2014. If you are buying, inspect the battery and cooling system first, as the 47-watt TDP often degrades these components over a decade of use. The processor itself remains surprisingly capable for 1080p video editing, running older creative software, and casual gaming, thanks to the potent HD 5200 graphics with eDRAM. However, single-core performance lags significantly behind modern chips. If you are performing a board-level repair, this chip is a direct replacement for failed 47-watt BGA 1364 processors, but it requires professional soldering equipment. Do not purchase a machine with this CPU for modern, heavy workloads; it will struggle with 4K rendering or modern AAA gaming. Treat it as a solid, budget-friendly machine for retro computing, light productivity, or as a media server, pricing it accordingly.
Read the full reviewA flagship 2013 mobile processor combining strong quad-core clocks with the graphical prowess of Iris Pro and eDRAM.
Best for: If you are sourcing an Intel Core i7-4850HQ today, it is likely for repairing a vintage premium laptop, such as a 2013 MacBook Pro. The processor is end-of-life, but its 3.5 GHz turbo and HD 5200 graphics still pack a punch for retro gaming and 1080p media editing. When evaluating a system with this chip, pay close attention to the thermal paste and fan condition; a 47W Haswell chip will throttle heavily if overheating. If you are performing a BGA replacement, ensure your soldering profile matches the 1364 ball grid array. For general consumers, do not purchase a laptop with this CPU as a primary machine. Modern budget processors offer vastly superior battery life and single-core performance. However, if you need a cheap, capable machine for running older creative software or acting as a localized media server, a functional 4850HQ system can still provide excellent value at the right price.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4770HQ or Intel Core i7-4850HQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4850HQ comes out ahead with a score of 7.8/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Do Intel Core i7-4770HQ and Intel Core i7-4850HQ 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 i7-4850HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-4770HQ (8,300), Intel Core i7-4850HQ (8,400). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.