CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8560U vs Intel Core i7-8650U
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8560U is a highly efficient mobile processor introduced as part of the Whiskey Lake lineup, specifically engineered for thin-and-light ultrabooks. Featuring four cores and eight threads, it brought mainstream quad-core performance to the ultra-low-power segment. Operating at a base frequency of 1.8 GHz, it can dynamically boost up to 4.6 GHz when thermal headroom permits, delivering snappy burst performance for everyday tasks and moderate workloads. With a 15-watt thermal design power, it balances battery longevity with processing capability. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 620 handles basic display outputs and light multimedia tasks, though it is not suited for intensive gaming. This CPU marked a significant step in Intel's 8th generation strategy, offering increased core counts over previous ultra-low-voltage dual-core designs, thereby reshaping user expectations for portable computing power. Released in late 2018, it became a staple in premium business and consumer laptops, providing a reliable computing experience for professionals on the go who require multitasking capabilities without sacrificing portability.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles heavy multitasking and office applications effortlessly.
Strong performance for office tasks, but throttles under sustained multi-threaded load.
Gaming
Only suitable for very light or older games on low settings.
Not suitable for gaming beyond basic 2D applications.
Virtualization
Can run light VMs, but limited by 15W power constraints.
Can handle light VMs, but limited by 15W TDP.
Efficiency
Outstanding power-to-performance ratio for battery life.
Excellent efficiency for all-day battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Basic CPU inference only
- No dedicated AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- Relies on Intel UHD Graphics 620
- Only suitable for indie or older titles
- Not recommended for modern AAA gaming
- UHD 620 graphics are very basic
- Suitable for older games only
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent power efficiency
- Good burst performance
- Quad-core multitasking
- Widely supported in business laptops
Cons
- Weak integrated graphics
- Older 14nm process
- Locked multiplier
- Soldered to motherboard
Pros
- 4 cores and 8 threads
- Intel vPro support for enterprise
- Good single-core burst performance
- Excellent battery life
Cons
- Low base clock
- Basic integrated graphics
- 14nm process is outdated
- Throttles under heavy load
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-8560U
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 2800HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8250URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8550URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8650URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Better integrated graphics and efficiency.
Significantly faster single-core and better iGPU.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Stronger overall performance and newer architecture.
- AMD Ryzen 7 4700UAlt
More cores and better battery life.
- Alt
Incredible performance per watt for ultrabooks.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-8650U
- AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 2700URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8550URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-8350URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 2500URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7600URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-8665UAlt
Whiskey Lake refresh with slightly better performance.
- AMD Ryzen 5 Pro 4650UAlt
Much better multi-core performance and efficiency.
11th Gen offers massive improvements in IPC and graphics.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Vastly superior performance and battery life.
Compare head-to-head - AMD Ryzen 7 5825UAlt
Modern alternative with excellent battery life and 8 cores.
Our Verdict on Each
A capable quad-core mobile CPU that offers excellent battery life and sufficient power for everyday productivity, though it struggles with heavy rendering or modern gaming.
Best for: Purchasing a used, premium ultrabook for study or light office work.
Read the full reviewThe Core i7-8650U is a 15W mobile CPU with vPro support, designed for business ultrabooks.
Best for: The Intel Core i7-8650U is a processor you will encounter primarily in the refurbished business laptop market. It is an excellent choice for professionals or students who need a reliable, portable machine for office work, web browsing, and video conferencing. The inclusion of vPro technology makes it particularly appealing for IT departments or users who require remote management capabilities. However, like other 15W 8th Gen chips, its low base clock means it will throttle under heavy sustained workloads. Avoid purchasing a laptop with this CPU if you need to do video editing, 3D rendering, or gaming. It is best suited for budget-conscious buyers looking for a high-quality, durable business ultrabook like a used ThinkPad X1 Carbon or Dell Latitude.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8560U or Intel Core i7-8650U?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8560U 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 i7-8560U or Intel Core i7-8650U?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8650U leads with a gaming performance score of 35/100 among Intel Core i7-8560U and Intel Core i7-8650U.
Do Intel Core i7-8560U and Intel Core i7-8650U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-8560U: Intel BGA 1528, Intel Core i7-8650U: Intel BGA 1356), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-8560U posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-8560U (8,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.