CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8705G vs Intel Core i7-8709G
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8705G is a highly unique mobile processor launched in January 2018 as part of the Kaby Lake-G family. It represents a groundbreaking collaboration between Intel and AMD, combining an Intel CPU with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics on a single package. Built on Intel's 14nm process, the CPU side features 4 cores and 8 threads, operating at a base clock of 3.1 GHz and boosting up to 4.1 GHz. The graphics side integrates 1536 Radeon stream processors paired with 4GB of HBM2 memory, delivering performance comparable to an NVIDIA GTX 1050 Ti. This combination allows the i7-8705G to handle 1080p gaming and VR workloads without the power overhead of a discrete GPU. With a 65W TDP, it is designed for thin-and-light gaming laptops and compact PCs. The processor also includes Intel HD Graphics 630 for low-power display tasks, making it a versatile and historically significant chip.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong CPU performance for everyday tasks and light content creation.
Strong CPU performance for everyday tasks and content creation.
Gaming
Excellent 1080p gaming performance thanks to the Radeon Vega M GL graphics.
Excellent 1080p gaming performance, comparable to a GTX 1060 Max-Q.
Virtualization
Capable but limited by 4 cores.
Capable but limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
HBM2 memory and integrated design improve power efficiency compared to discrete GPUs.
HBM2 memory improves power efficiency compared to discrete GPUs.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Radeon GPU can be used for OpenCL acceleration
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Radeon GPU supports OpenCL acceleration
Content Creation
Gaming
- Equivalent to GTX 1050 Ti
- Can run most AAA games at 1080p medium
- VR-ready
- Comparable to GTX 1060 Max-Q
- Can run most AAA games at 1080p high
- Excellent for VR
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Unique Intel-AMD partnership
- Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics
- 4GB of HBM2 memory
- Excellent 1080p gaming in small form factors
Cons
- Driver support has ended
- 65W TDP requires active cooling
- Soldered and non-upgradable
- Limited to 8 PCIe lanes for the GPU
Pros
- Unique Intel-AMD hybrid design
- High-end Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics
- 4GB of HBM2 memory
- GTX 1060-class gaming performance
Cons
- Driver support has ended
- 65W TDP requires active cooling
- Soldered and non-upgradable
- 14nm CPU process is outdated
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-8705G
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7700HQRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8550URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 3550HRival
Mobile
10th Gen successor with integrated Iris Plus graphics.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HAlt
Much better CPU and GPU performance in a similar form factor.
- Alt
Modern alternative with excellent efficiency and integrated graphics.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Better driver support and modern Xe graphics.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Superior performance and battery life for thin-and-light laptops.
Intel Core i7-8709G
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7700HQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8705GRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8300HRival
Mobile
10th Gen successor with integrated Iris Plus graphics.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HAlt
Much better CPU and GPU performance.
- Alt
Modern alternative with excellent efficiency.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Better driver support and modern Xe graphics.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Superior performance and battery life.
Our Verdict on Each
A revolutionary processor that combined Intel and AMD silicon to deliver exceptional gaming performance in compact form factors.
Best for: If you are considering a device with the Intel Core i7-8705G, you are likely looking at a used NUC or a thin-and-light gaming laptop like the Dell XPS 15 9575. This processor remains a highly capable solution for 1080p gaming and VR, offering performance comparable to a GTX 1050 Ti in an incredibly compact form factor. It is an excellent choice for budget gamers or media creators who need a portable machine with dedicated graphics. However, driver support from Intel for the Radeon component has ended, meaning you may encounter compatibility issues with the latest games. Avoid this processor if you want a future-proof system or need the latest API support. It is best purchased at a discount for its unique hardware design and solid 1080p performance.
Read the full reviewA powerhouse hybrid processor that combined an Intel CPU with AMD's highest-tier mobile Vega graphics, delivering exceptional gaming performance in compact form factors.
Best for: The Intel Core i7-8709G is a processor you will find in high-end mini PCs like the Intel NUC8 VR and certain thin-and-light gaming laptops. It remains a highly capable solution for 1080p gaming at high settings and VR, offering performance comparable to a GTX 1060. It is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who need a compact, powerful machine for gaming or media creation. However, driver support from Intel for the Radeon component has ended, meaning you may encounter compatibility issues with the latest games. Avoid this processor if you want a future-proof system or need the latest API support. It is best purchased at a discount for its unique hardware design and solid 1080p performance, particularly in small form factor builds where a discrete GPU isn't feasible.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-8705G or Intel Core i7-8709G?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8709G leads with a gaming performance score of 85/100 among Intel Core i7-8705G and Intel Core i7-8709G.
Do Intel Core i7-8705G and Intel Core i7-8709G use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 2270 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.