CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8709G vs Core i7-1165G7
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8709G is a high-performance mobile processor launched in February 2018, belonging to the unique Kaby Lake-G family. It represents a historic collaboration between Intel and AMD, combining an Intel 4-core, 8-thread CPU with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics on a single package. Built on Intel's 14nm process, the CPU operates at a base clock of 3.1 GHz and boosts up to 4.1 GHz. The standout feature is the Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics, which is the higher-tier variant featuring 1536 stream processors and 4GB of HBM2 memory, delivering performance comparable to an NVIDIA GTX 1060 Max-Q. With a 65W TDP, the i7-8709G is designed for thin-and-light gaming laptops and compact mini PCs that require serious graphical horsepower. This processor eliminates the need for a discrete GPU while offering excellent 1080p gaming and VR capabilities, making it a highly sought-after chip for enthusiast portable systems.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong CPU performance for everyday tasks and content creation.
Snappy application launch and multitasking due to high single-core boost.
Gaming
Excellent 1080p gaming performance, comparable to a GTX 1060 Max-Q.
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
- Comparable to GTX 1060 Max-Q
- Can run most AAA games at 1080p high
- Excellent for VR
- 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
- 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- 14nm CPU process is outdated
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 i7-8709G
- 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.
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 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 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 i7-8709G or Core i7-1165G7?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8709G 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 i7-8709G or Core i7-1165G7?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8709G leads with a gaming performance score of 85/100 among Intel Core i7-8709G and Core i7-1165G7.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-1165G7 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-8709G (65 W), Core i7-1165G7 (28 W).
Do Intel Core i7-8709G and Core i7-1165G7 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-8709G: 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.