CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8850H vs Intel Core i7-11600H
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8850H is a high-performance mobile processor launched in the second quarter of 2018 as part of the 8th Generation Coffee Lake-H family. Designed primarily for gaming laptops and mobile workstations, this chip brought 6-core, 12-thread computing to the portable form factor for the first time in Intel's mainstream lineup. Built on a refined 14nm manufacturing process, it operates at a base clock of 2.7 GHz and can boost up to 4.3 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0. The processor features 12MB of L3 cache, which significantly improves performance in latency-sensitive workloads. With a default TDP of 45 watts, it requires robust cooling solutions to maintain peak performance during extended rendering or gaming sessions. The inclusion of Intel UHD Graphics 630 allows for basic display output and hardware-accelerated media encoding without needing a dedicated GPU. Overall, the i7-8850H represents a major leap in mobile computing power, bridging the gap between desktop and laptop performance.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Strong multi-core performance handles heavy workloads efficiently.
12 threads handle standard productivity suites and moderate multitasking without issue.
Gaming
Still capable of driving high-refresh-rate gaming when paired with a modern mobile GPU.
Excellent for 1080p high-refresh-rate gaming; rarely bottlenecks mid-range mobile GPUs.
Virtualization
12 threads make it highly capable for running local virtual machines.
Can run basic VMs, but 6 cores may limit heavy virtualization environments.
Efficiency
14nm process at 45W results in significant heat output and lower efficiency.
The 10nm node keeps power draw reasonable, extending laptop battery life during light use.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- CPU-based inference is decent due to 12 threads
- AVX-512 support aids basic inferencing
- Lacks dedicated AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- Strong single-core speed
- Pairs well with GTX 10-series and RTX 20-series mobile GPUs
- May throttle in thin-and-light chassis
- Strong single-core speed benefits esports titles
- PCIe 4.0 allows for DirectStorage support
- 6 cores are sufficient for most current games
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 6 cores and 12 threads
- Strong sustained performance
- 12MB L3 cache
- Good for budget mobile workstations
Cons
- Runs hot under load
- 14nm process is inefficient by modern standards
- Soldered to motherboard
- End-of-life status
Pros
- Strong single-core gaming performance
- 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Good power efficiency on 10nm
- Capable integrated graphics
Cons
- Only 6 cores in an 8-core world
- Locked multiplier
- No DDR5 support
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-8850H
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7700HQRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-8300HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-9750HAlt
9th Gen refresh with higher clocks and better thermal management.
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HAlt
Vastly superior multi-core performance and efficiency.
- Alt
Modern alternative with unmatched efficiency for creative workloads.
Compare head-to-head - Intel Core i7-10750HAlt
10th Gen offers slightly better performance and faster memory support.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HAlt
Modern budget alternative with excellent single-core speed.
Intel Core i7-11600H
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11800HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-11400HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700URival
Mobile
Massive leap in multi-core performance via hybrid architecture.
Compare head-to-head- Alt
Vastly superior battery life for non-gaming mobile workloads.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A groundbreaking mobile processor that brought 6 cores to laptops, offering excellent sustained performance for creators and gamers, though it runs warm.
Best for: When considering the Intel Core i7-8850H today, it is essential to weigh its age against its capabilities. Found exclusively in used or refurbished laptops, this processor still offers respectable performance for everyday productivity, moderate video editing, and 1080p gaming when paired with a dedicated GPU. It is an excellent budget option for students or professionals needing a capable mobile workstation without paying full retail price. However, buyers should be aware of its 14nm heritage, which means it runs warmer and consumes more power than modern alternatives. Avoid purchasing a laptop with this CPU if you require maximum battery life or need to run heavily multi-threaded workloads efficiently. Overall, it remains a solid value buy on the second-hand market.
Read the full reviewA solid 6-core mobile CPU with great single-core performance, though 8-core alternatives offer better longevity for heavy multitasking.
Best for: Buying a budget-friendly used gaming laptop.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8850H or Intel Core i7-11600H?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8850H comes out ahead with a score of 8.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-11600H has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-8850H (45 W), Intel Core i7-11600H (35 W).
Do Intel Core i7-8850H and Intel Core i7-11600H use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-8850H: Intel BGA 1440, Intel Core i7-11600H: Intel BGA 1787), so each needs a compatible motherboard.