CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8706G vs Core i7-1165G7
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.
Snappy application launch and multitasking due to high single-core boost.
Gaming
Capable of smooth 1080p gaming in modern titles at medium settings.
Capable of playing modern titles at 1080p medium settings thanks to Iris Xe.
Virtualization
Capable but limited by 4 cores.
Adequate for light VMs, but limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
HBM2 memory improves power efficiency compared to discrete GPUs.
Excellent idle power and load efficiency on the 10nm node.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Radeon GPU supports OpenCL acceleration
- DL Boost for low-power AI inference
- GNA for background noise cancellation
Content Creation
Gaming
- Radeon Vega M GL provides solid 1080p performance
- Comparable to GTX 1050 Ti
- Excellent for an iGPU
- Requires dual-channel memory for best results
- Can play CS:GO and Valorant easily
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- 14nm CPU process is outdated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
- Excellent single-core performance
- Iris Xe graphics are class-leading for integrated
- Great power efficiency
- Supports fast PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs
- Built on Intel's 10nm process
Cons
- Only 4 cores and 8 threads
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Multi-core performance lags behind AMD's 8-core mobile chips
- Can throttle under sustained load if laptop cooling is poor
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.
Core i7-1165G7
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-1135G7Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600URival
Mobile
12th Gen offers better efficiency and more cores.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Budget-friendly with good multi-core performance.
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 landmark mobile processor that brought massive single-core and integrated graphics improvements to the ultrabook segment.
Best for: Purchasing a used or refurbished premium ultrabook for productivity and light gaming.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8706G or Core i7-1165G7?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-1165G7 comes out ahead with a score of 8.8/10. 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 i7-8706G or Core i7-1165G7?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8706G leads with a gaming performance score of 80/100 among Intel Core i7-8706G and Core i7-1165G7.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-1165G7 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-8706G (65 W), Core i7-1165G7 (28 W).
Do Intel Core i7-8706G and Core i7-1165G7 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-8706G: Intel BGA 2270, Core i7-1165G7: Intel BGA 1449), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-1165G7 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-1165G7 (4,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.