CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4770HQ vs Core i7-5850HQ
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.
Solid quad-core performance for 2015 applications.
Gaming
Strong integrated graphics performance for older titles.
Iris Pro handles older games well without a discrete GPU.
Virtualization
Handles standard VMs well.
Handles light VMs but constrained by DDR3 bandwidth.
Efficiency
47W TDP is standard but outdated.
47W TDP generates significant heat in modern usage contexts.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- No modern AI acceleration hardware
- eDRAM does not significantly aid modern AI workloads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Pro 5200 handles 1080p low settings well
- Rivals entry-level discrete GPUs
- Can play 2015-era games at 1080p low
- eDRAM prevents severe memory bottlenecks
- Not suitable for modern AAA gaming
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- Outdated 22nm process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
- Iris Pro 6200 with eDRAM is powerful for integrated graphics
- Good quad-core CPU performance
- Hardware acceleration for media encoding
- Suitable for professional CAD work
Cons
- High 47W TDP
- DDR3 memory only
- Soldered BGA socket
- Obsolete by modern efficiency standards
- Short market lifespan
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
Core i7-5850HQ
- AMD FX-7500Rival
Mobile APU
- Intel Core i7-5750HQRival
Mobile Workstation
- Intel Core i7-5700HQRival
Mobile Performance
- Intel Core i7-6700HQAlt
Skylake architecture with DDR4 support.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Modern alternative with much better efficiency and graphics.
- Alt
Revolutionary leap in mobile CPU and GPU efficiency.
Compare head-to-head Newer chip with similar eDRAM concepts but better performance.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i5-8259UAlt
Modern quad-core with Iris Plus graphics.
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 capable Broadwell chip that brought eDRAM-enhanced Iris Pro graphics to high-end laptops, though it runs hot by modern standards.
Best for: Buying a legacy workstation laptop for offline typing or media consumption.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4770HQ or Core i7-5850HQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4770HQ 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 is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-4770HQ or Core i7-5850HQ?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4770HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i7-4770HQ and Core i7-5850HQ.
Do Intel Core i7-4770HQ and Core i7-5850HQ 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 i7-4770HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-4770HQ (8,300). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.