CPU Comparison
Core i7-9750H vs Core i7-9750HF
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-9750H is a high-performance mobile processor launched in April 2019 for gaming laptops and mobile workstations. Based on the Coffee Lake-HR architecture, this 14nm chip features 6 cores and 12 threads, offering a significant upgrade over the previous 4-core mobile i7 standard. Operating at a 2.6 GHz base frequency and boosting up to 4.5 GHz, it is designed to handle demanding workloads including video editing, 3D rendering, and high-end gaming. With a 45W TDP, it requires robust cooling solutions typical of thicker, performance-oriented laptops. The processor includes 12MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR4-2666 memory. It features Intel UHD Graphics 630, providing basic display capabilities and Quick Sync media acceleration when the discrete GPU is idle. The i7-9750H became the default choice for mid-to-high-tier gaming laptops in 2019, balancing thermal constraints with the multi-core performance demanded by modern consumers and creators.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Strong 6-core performance
- Excellent single-core boost
- Widely supported in laptop platforms
- Includes Quick Sync for video encoding
Cons
- Runs very hot in thin chassis
- 45W TDP limits battery life
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Only supports PCIe 3.0
Pros
- Same gaming performance as i7-9750H
- Slightly lower OEM cost
- Strong 6-core multi-threading
Cons
- No integrated graphics
- Discrete GPU must always be on, hurting battery life
- No Intel Quick Sync support
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-9750H
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-9880HRival
High-End Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i5-9300HRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Intel Core i7-9750HFAlt
Same performance but lacks integrated graphics for cheaper laptops.
- Intel Core i7-10750HAlt
Next-gen 6-core with higher clocks.
Core i7-9750HF
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-9750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i5-9300HRival
Mainstream Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 3550HRival
Mainstream Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HAlt
Much more efficient 8-core alternative.
- Intel Core i7-10750HAlt
Next-gen 6-core with better optimization.
Our Verdict on Each
The definitive 2019 gaming laptop CPU, offering excellent 6-core performance, though it runs hot in thin chassis.
Best for: Buying a used 2019 gaming laptop
Read the full reviewIdentical to the 9750H but cheaper for OEMs. Great for gaming laptops, though the lack of Quick Sync limits video battery life.
Best for: Buying a used budget gaming laptop
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-9750H or Core i7-9750HF?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-9750H 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.
Do Core i7-9750H and Core i7-9750HF use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1440 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.