CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4770HQ vs Core i7-920XM
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.
Adequate for basic tasks but severely outpaced by modern mobile CPUs.
Gaming
Strong integrated graphics performance for older titles.
Capable of playing older 2010-era titles well, but struggles with modern games.
Virtualization
Handles standard VMs well.
Good for running basic VMs on the go, though limited by modern standards.
Efficiency
47W TDP is standard but outdated.
Very poor efficiency by modern standards, with high idle and load power draw.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- No AI acceleration hardware
- Unsuitable for modern AI workloads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Pro 5200 handles 1080p low settings well
- Rivals entry-level discrete GPUs
- High clock speeds for its era
- Lacks modern instruction sets like AVX
- Requires discrete GPU
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- Outdated 22nm process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
- Quad-core performance for mobile
- 8MB L3 cache
- Turbo Boost technology
Cons
- Very high power consumption (120W max)
- No integrated graphics
- Obsolete socket
- Runs very hot
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 i7-920XM
- AMD Phenom II X4 MobileRival
Mobile High-End
- Intel Core 2 Extreme QX9300Rival
Mobile Extreme
- Intel Core i7-820QMRival
Mobile High-End
- Intel Core i7-720QMRival
Mobile Mid-Range
- AMD Turion II UltraRival
Mobile Mainstream
- Intel Core i7-940XMAlt
Slightly faster refresh of the same architecture.
- AMD Phenom II X4 N950Alt
AMD's alternative mobile quad-core.
Better efficiency for basic mobile tasks.
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 groundbreaking mobile CPU that brought unlocked quad-core performance to laptops, though it runs hot and is obsolete today.
Best for: Retro gaming laptop restoration.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-4770HQ or Core i7-920XM?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4770HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i7-4770HQ and Core i7-920XM.
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), Core i7-920XM (55 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4770HQ and Core i7-920XM use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-4770HQ: Intel BGA 1364, Core i7-920XM: Intel Socket G1), 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). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.