CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4860HQ vs Intel Core i7-4940MX
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4860HQ is a top-tier mobile processor launched in February 2014, representing the pinnacle of the Haswell Crystalwell lineup. Designed for flagship laptops and mobile workstations, it features four cores and eight threads, delivering uncompromising multitasking performance. Operating at a high base clock of 2.4 GHz with turbo frequencies reaching 3.6 GHz, it offers exceptional single-threaded speed for its generation. The integration of Intel HD Graphics 5200, supported by 128MB of L4 eDRAM, provides class-leading integrated graphical performance, capable of handling demanding 3D workloads without a discrete GPU. With a 47-watt TDP, it requires substantial cooling but delivers a desktop-like experience in a mobile form factor. Though end-of-life, the 4860HQ was the processor of choice for power users who refused to compromise on either CPU speed or graphical fidelity, making it a legendary chip in the annals of mobile computing history.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
High base and turbo clocks ensure top-tier responsiveness.
8 threads and 4.0 GHz boost make quick work of compiling and rendering.
Gaming
Best-in-class integrated graphics for 2014 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47W TDP is standard but outdated.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 handles older 1080p games flawlessly
- Rivals mid-range discrete GPUs
- Won't bottleneck 2014-era GPUs
- Can be overclocked for extra FPS
- Requires massive laptop cooling
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Highest clocks in Crystalwell mobile family
- Iris Pro 5200 graphics
- 128MB L4 eDRAM
- Exceptional single-threaded performance for 2014
Cons
- Soldered BGA package
- 47W TDP requires robust cooling
- Outdated 22nm process
- End-of-life
Pros
- 4.0 GHz turbo boost
- Unlocked multiplier
- Full 8MB L3 cache
- Removable PGA socket
Cons
- Extremely high 57W TDP
- Runs very hot
- Expensive launch price
- Poor battery life
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-4860HQ
- AMD A10-7300MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4850HQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4770HQRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4960HQRival
Mobile
Slightly faster Crystalwell refresh.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 5900HXAlt
Modern mobile flagship alternative.
Modern alternative with massive multi-core gains.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Modern creator laptop alternative.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-4940MX
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4900MQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4930MXRival
Mobile Extreme
- Intel Core i7-3940XMRival
Mobile Extreme
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-5950HQAlt
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
The peak of Haswell mobile architecture, combining high 3.6GHz turbo clocks with the formidable Iris Pro 5200 graphics.
Best for: Finding a laptop with an Intel Core i7-4860HQ today usually means browsing the used market for a high-end 2014 MacBook Pro or a premium Windows ultrabook. The chip remains surprisingly competent for 1080p video editing, software development, and retro gaming, thanks to its 3.6 GHz turbo and potent HD 5200 graphics. If you are purchasing a system with this processor, verify the battery health and cooling capacity, as the 47-watt TDP can generate significant heat. For technicians, this CPU is a rare find required for specific board-level repairs on BGA 1364 motherboards. Do not pay modern prices for this legacy hardware. It should be priced as a budget-friendly secondary device. While it cannot compete with modern chips in efficiency or raw single-core speed, its unique eDRAM architecture makes it a fascinating piece of computing history that still holds practical value for light productivity and nostalgic gaming sessions.
Read the full reviewA legendary mobile CPU that hit 4.0 GHz and offered unlocked overclocking, providing desktop-level performance for laptops.
Best for: Collecting vintage gaming laptops or extreme budget used systems.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-4860HQ or Intel Core i7-4940MX?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4860HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Intel Core i7-4860HQ and Intel Core i7-4940MX.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4860HQ has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-4860HQ (47 W), Intel Core i7-4940MX (57 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4860HQ and Intel Core i7-4940MX use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-4860HQ: Intel BGA 1364, Intel Core i7-4940MX: Intel Socket G3), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-4860HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-4860HQ (8,500), Intel Core i7-4940MX (6,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.