CPU Comparison
Core i7-5950HQ vs Intel Core i7-8559U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-5950HQ is a premium mobile processor introduced in mid-2015, targeting the highest tier of mobile workstations and premium laptops. Fabricated on Intel's 14nm Broadwell-H architecture, it stands out primarily due to its inclusion of Intel's Iris Pro Graphics 6200 with embedded L4 eDRAM. This unique configuration provides massive memory bandwidth for the integrated GPU, making it highly capable of gaming and rendering without a discrete graphics card. The processor features four cores and eight threads, operating at a base frequency of 2.9 GHz and boosting up to 3.8 GHz. With 6 MB of L3 cache and a 47-watt thermal design power, it balances performance and thermals. End-of-life and superseded by subsequent generations, the i7-5950HQ remains a notable example of Intel's experimentation with on-package eDRAM to overcome memory bottlenecks in compact mobile form factors architectures.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong CPU performance for professional workloads in 2015.
High clock speeds ensure excellent performance in office and creative apps.
Gaming
Iris Pro allowed for 720p/1080p medium gaming without a discrete GPU.
Iris Plus 655 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
Virtualization
Adequate for light VMs, though limited by DDR3.
Capable of running light VMs, though limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
The eDRAM and high clocks result in significant heat output.
28W TDP is efficient enough for laptops but warmer than 15W parts.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration
- eDRAM does not benefit modern AI inference significantly
- No dedicated AI hardware
- eDRAM can be utilized for certain compute workloads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Comparable to entry-level discrete GPUs of its era
- Capable of playing older titles at 1080p
- eDRAM significantly reduces frame drops
- Iris Plus 655 is a major step up from UHD 620
- eDRAM helps with texture loading
- Can run macOS games smoothly
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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- DDR3 memory is obsolete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
Pros
- High 4.5 GHz boost clock
- Iris Plus Graphics with 128MB eDRAM
- 28W TDP allows good sustained performance
- Excellent single-core speed
Cons
- Runs warmer than 15W U-series chips
- Soldered to motherboard
- 14nm process is outdated
- Limited to older platforms
Competitors & Alternatives
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
Intel Core i7-8559U
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8550URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8259URival
Mobile
- Apple A12X BionicRival
Mobile
- Alt
Vastly superior performance and efficiency for Mac users.
Compare head-to-head 10th Gen successor with 10nm process and better IPC.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 4800UAlt
Much better multi-core performance in a similar power bracket.
- Intel Core i7-8665UAlt
Whiskey Lake alternative for business PCs.
- Alt
The modern standard for compact Mac desktops and laptops.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
An 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 reviewA premium 28W mobile processor that combined high clock speeds with powerful Iris Plus graphics, delivering an excellent balance of CPU and GPU performance.
Best for: If you are considering a laptop with the Intel Core i7-8559U, you are likely looking at a used MacBook Pro or a premium NUC. This processor remains highly capable for everyday productivity, programming, and light 1080p video editing. The inclusion of Iris Plus graphics with eDRAM provides a noticeable boost in graphical tasks compared to standard U-series chips. It is an excellent choice for users who need a compact, moderately powerful machine without paying the premium for Apple Silicon. However, be aware that it is an Intel-based Mac, meaning it will eventually lose macOS support. Avoid this processor if you need to run modern AAA games or heavy 3D rendering workloads. It is best purchased at a discount for general use and legacy software.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-5950HQ or Intel Core i7-8559U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8559U comes out ahead with a score of 8.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-8559U has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-5950HQ (47 W), Intel Core i7-8559U (28 W).
Do Core i7-5950HQ and Intel Core i7-8559U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-5950HQ: Intel BGA 1364, Intel Core i7-8559U: Intel BGA 1356), so each needs a compatible motherboard.