CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4770HQ vs Intel Core i7-4930MX
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.
8 threads and high clocks make quick work of compiling and rendering.
Gaming
Strong integrated graphics performance for older titles.
Excellent for older games and can handle modern eSports easily with a discrete GPU.
Virtualization
Handles standard VMs well.
Good for running VMs, though limited by mobile platform constraints.
Efficiency
47W TDP is standard but outdated.
57W TDP is very power-hungry for a mobile chip, resulting in poor battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- No AI hardware
- CPU inference is slow
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Pro 5200 handles 1080p low settings well
- Rivals entry-level discrete GPUs
- Won't bottleneck 2013-era GPUs
- Can be overclocked for extra FPS
- Requires massive laptop cooling
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- Outdated 22nm process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
- Unlocked multiplier
- Full 8MB L3 cache
- High 3.9 GHz turbo boost
- Removable PGA socket
Cons
- Extremely high 57W TDP
- Runs very hot
- Expensive launch price
- Poor battery 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 i7-4930MX
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4900MQRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-3940XMRival
Mobile Extreme
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4940MXRival
Mobile Extreme
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-5700HQAlt
Newer Broadwell architecture with better efficiency.
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HAlt
Modern mobile alternative with better efficiency.
6-core modern alternative that destroys it in performance.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Incredible modern performance per watt.
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 legendary mobile CPU that brought unlocked overclocking to laptops, offering desktop-level performance for enthusiasts.
Best for: Collecting vintage gaming laptops or extreme budget used systems.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4770HQ or Intel Core i7-4930MX?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4930MX 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 is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-4770HQ or Intel Core i7-4930MX?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4770HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i7-4770HQ and Intel Core i7-4930MX.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4770HQ has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-4770HQ (47 W), Intel Core i7-4930MX (57 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4770HQ and Intel Core i7-4930MX use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-4770HQ: Intel BGA 1364, Intel Core i7-4930MX: Intel Socket G3), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-4770HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-4770HQ (8,300), Intel Core i7-4930MX (6,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.