CPU Comparison
Core i7-9850H vs Core i7-9850HE
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-9850H is a premium mobile processor launched in April 2019 for high-end gaming laptops and mobile workstations. Based on the Coffee Lake-HR architecture, this 14nm chip features 6 cores and 12 threads, delivering robust multi-threaded performance. Operating at a base clock of 2.6 GHz and boosting up to 4.6 GHz, it offers slightly higher single-core turbo frequencies compared to the popular i7-9750H. With a 45W TDP, it is designed for performance-oriented chassis with substantial cooling solutions. 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. Often found in top-tier mobile workstations and premium gaming laptops, the i7-9850H strikes a balance between high frequency and multi-core capability, making it suitable for demanding professional applications like CAD, 3D rendering, and software compilation on the go.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent single and multi-core performance
- High 4.6 GHz turbo boost
- Full 12MB L3 cache
- Supports ECC memory (with compatible chipset)
Cons
- Runs hot in mobile chassis
- Soldered BGA package
- Expensive
- Only supports PCIe 3.0
Pros
- Strong 6-core embedded performance
- Long-term industrial availability
- High 4.4 GHz turbo boost
- Supports ECC memory
Cons
- Soldered BGA package
- Reduced 9MB L3 cache
- Hard to source for consumers
- 45W TDP requires active cooling
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-9850H
- Intel Core i7-9750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-9880HRival
High-End Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 3750HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Xeon E-2276MRival
Mobile Workstation
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i7-10875HAlt
Next-gen 8-core upgrade.
Our Verdict on Each
A slightly faster, better-binned version of the 9750H, offering excellent performance for heavy mobile workloads.
Best for: Buying a used premium mobile workstation
Read the full reviewA robust 45W embedded processor that brings solid 6-core performance to industrial and ruggedized mobile form factors.
Best for: Building ruggedized portable equipment
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-9850H or Core i7-9850HE?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-9850H comes out ahead with a score of 8.7/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Do Core i7-9850H and Core i7-9850HE use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1440 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.