CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4860HQ vs Core i7-5950HQ
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.
Strong CPU performance for professional workloads in 2015.
Gaming
Best-in-class integrated graphics for 2014 titles.
Iris Pro allowed for 720p/1080p medium gaming without a discrete GPU.
Virtualization
Handles standard VMs well.
Adequate for light VMs, though limited by DDR3.
Efficiency
47W TDP is standard but outdated.
The eDRAM and high clocks result in significant heat output.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- No AI acceleration
- eDRAM does not benefit modern AI inference significantly
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Pro handles older 1080p games flawlessly
- Rivals mid-range discrete GPUs
- Comparable to entry-level discrete GPUs of its era
- Capable of playing older titles at 1080p
- eDRAM significantly reduces frame drops
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- Outdated 22nm process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
- Iris Pro 6200 is highly capable for integrated graphics
- 128MB eDRAM provides huge bandwidth
- Strong single and multi-core clocks
- Excellent for 2015 mobile workstations
Cons
- Very expensive at launch
- 47W TDP limits battery life
- Soldered to motherboard
- DDR3 memory is obsolete
- Thermal throttling is common in thin laptops
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
Core i7-5950HQ
- AMD A10-8700PRival
Mobile APU
- Intel Core i7-5700HQRival
Mobile Performance
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4980HQRival
Mobile Workstation
- Intel Core i7-6700HQAlt
More modern Skylake architecture with DDR4.
- Alt
Vastly superior integrated graphics and efficiency.
Compare head-to-head - AMD Ryzen 7 5700UAlt
Modern 8-core alternative with excellent iGPU.
Newer Coffee Lake-U with Iris Plus graphics.
Compare head-to-head10nm Ice Lake with better efficiency and modern graphics.
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 reviewAn innovative processor that pushed the boundaries of integrated graphics with eDRAM, though its high cost and TDP limited its market appeal.
Best for: Buying a used MacBook Pro or mobile workstation for cheap.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4860HQ or Core i7-5950HQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4860HQ 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 i7-4860HQ or Core i7-5950HQ?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4860HQ leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Intel Core i7-4860HQ and Core i7-5950HQ.
Do Intel Core i7-4860HQ and Core i7-5950HQ 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 i7-4860HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-4860HQ (8,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.