CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8706G vs Intel Core i7-8809G
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8706G is a specialized mobile processor launched in February 2018 as part of the unique Kaby Lake-G family. Similar to the i7-8705G, it combines an Intel 4-core, 8-thread CPU with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics on a single package. Built on a 14nm process, it operates at a base clock of 3.1 GHz and boosts up to 4.1 GHz. The defining difference is that the i7-8706G is an OEM-specific part, primarily found in certain configurations of the Dell XPS 15 2-in-1. It utilizes the Radeon GPU as the primary display adapter, omitting the Intel HD 630 graphics found on the 8705G in some configurations, simplifying the graphics switching logic. With a 65W TDP and 4GB of HBM2 memory, it delivers GTX 1050 Ti-class gaming performance in a compact form factor. This processor remains a fascinating example of cross-company collaboration, offering strong performance for 1080p gaming and VR in thin-and-light devices.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong CPU performance for everyday tasks and moderate content creation.
Strong CPU performance, especially when pushed beyond stock speeds.
Gaming
Capable of smooth 1080p gaming in modern titles at medium settings.
Excellent 1080p gaming performance, further enhanced by overclocking capabilities.
Virtualization
Capable but limited by 4 cores.
Capable but limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
HBM2 memory improves power efficiency compared to discrete GPUs.
Unlocked nature means it can draw significant power when overclocked.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Radeon GPU supports OpenCL acceleration
- Radeon GPU supports OpenCL acceleration
Content Creation
Gaming
- Radeon Vega M GL provides solid 1080p performance
- Comparable to GTX 1050 Ti
- Comparable to GTX 1060
- Can be overclocked for extra performance
- Excellent for VR
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Unique Intel-AMD hybrid design
- Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics
- 4GB of HBM2 memory
- Good 1080p gaming performance
Cons
- Driver support has ended
- OEM specific, hard to find
- 65W TDP requires active cooling
- 14nm CPU process is outdated
Pros
- Unlocked CPU and GPU for overclocking
- 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 robust cooling
- Soldered and non-upgradable
- Runs very hot when overclocked
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-8706G
- 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.
Intel Core i7-8809G
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7700HQRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8709GRival
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 unique OEM variant of the Kaby Lake-G family, offering solid 1080p gaming performance via integrated Radeon graphics, though driver support is a concern.
Best for: The Intel Core i7-8706G is a processor you will only encounter in the used market, specifically in OEM systems like the Dell XPS 15 2-in-1. It remains a highly capable processor for 1080p gaming and VR, offering performance comparable to a GTX 1050 Ti in a compact form factor. It is an excellent choice for budget gamers or media creators who need a portable machine with dedicated-class graphics. However, driver support from Intel for the Radeon component has officially 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 performance in older or well-optimized titles.
Read the full reviewA legendary unlocked hybrid processor that combined an Intel CPU with AMD's highest-tier Vega graphics, offering exceptional performance and overclocking potential.
Best for: The Intel Core i7-8809G is a highly sought-after processor for enthusiast mini PC builders, specifically those using the Intel NUC8 VR (NUC8i7HVK) platform. It remains a highly capable solution for 1080p gaming at high settings and VR, offering performance comparable to a GTX 1060. The unlocked nature allows for significant performance gains through overclocking. It is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who want a compact, powerful, and tweakable system. 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 for its unique hardware design, overclocking potential, and solid 1080p performance in small form factor builds.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8706G or Intel Core i7-8809G?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8809G comes out ahead with a score of 9/10. 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 i7-8706G or Intel Core i7-8809G?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8809G leads with a gaming performance score of 88/100 among Intel Core i7-8706G and Intel Core i7-8809G.
Do Intel Core i7-8706G and Intel Core i7-8809G use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 2270 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.