CPU Comparison
Core i5-11260H vs Intel Core i7-11370H
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-11260H is a mid-range mobile processor engineered on the Tiger Lake-H architecture, designed to power the latest generation of high-performance laptops. Released in May 2021, this 10nm chip features 6 cores and 12 threads, making it a capable contender for both demanding productivity tasks and modern gaming. Operating with a base frequency of 2.1 GHz and boosting up to 4.4 GHz, it strikes a balance between single-threaded responsiveness and multi-threaded grunt. With a default TDP of 35W, configurable up to 45W, it is tailored for thin-and-light gaming rigs and creator notebooks. The inclusion of 12MB of L3 cache and 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes ensures swift data access and ample bandwidth for dedicated GPUs and fast NVMe storage. While it lacks the highest clock speeds of its i7 siblings, the i5-11260H remains a highly efficient workhorse, delivering excellent value for users who need solid performance without stepping into enthusiast pricing territories.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles everyday applications and multitasking efficiently.
High clock speeds make everyday tasks and light productivity feel incredibly fast.
Gaming
Capable of smooth 1080p gaming when paired with a dedicated GPU.
Can run esports titles well on integrated graphics, and pairs well with mobile GTX/RTX GPUs.
Virtualization
Adequate for basic virtual machine workloads.
4 cores limit the ability to run multiple heavy VMs simultaneously.
Efficiency
Excellent power-to-performance ratio thanks to the 10nm process.
28W TDP is well-optimized for thin-and-light chassis.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Includes AVX-512 for basic AI tasks
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Suitable for light inference workloads
- Adequate for basic AI background blur and noise cancellation
- Not suitable for heavy AI inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Handles 1080p gaming well with a discrete GPU
- May struggle with CPU-heavy titles at ultra settings
- Good foundation for budget gaming laptops
- Capable of 60fps in older titles using integrated graphics
- Pairs well with RTX 3050 for 1080p gaming
- 4 cores may bottleneck high-end mobile GPUs
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Good 6-core, 12-thread performance
- Supports PCIe 4.0
- Power-efficient 10nm node
- Supports high-speed DDR4-3200 memory
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- Lower clock speeds than i7 variants
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Basic integrated graphics
Pros
- Strong single-core performance
- Excellent integrated Iris Xe graphics
- 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Compact 28W power envelope
Cons
- Only 4 cores and 8 threads
- Locked multiplier
- Surpassed by newer Alder Lake P-series chips
- Relies heavily on cooling to sustain 4.8 GHz
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i5-11260H
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11370HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-11400HAlt
Offers slightly higher clock speeds for a marginal price increase.
For users needing 8 cores for heavier workloads.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i5-11300HAlt
A lower power option (28W) for thinner laptops.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HAlt
Superior multi-core performance for demanding creators.
Intel Core i7-11370H
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Thin-and-Light Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600URival
Thin-and-Light Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Rival
Thin-and-Light Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
ARM Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11375HRival
High-Performance Mobile
- Intel Core i5-11300HAlt
A budget alternative with very similar 4-core performance.
If you need 8-core performance and can handle the extra heat.
Compare head-to-headA newer 12th Gen alternative with a hybrid architecture for better efficiency.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A solid, budget-friendly 6-core mobile CPU that balances power and efficiency for everyday gaming and productivity.
Best for: The Intel Core i5-11260H remains a smart choice for budget-conscious consumers seeking a capable mobile processor. If you are in the market for a mid-range gaming laptop or a creator notebook priced under $1000, this processor provides excellent bang for your buck. Its 6-core, 12-thread configuration is still highly relevant for modern multitasking, moderate video editing, and mainstream gaming when paired with an RTX 3050 or RX 6600M. However, if your workflow involves heavy 3D rendering or intense streaming, stepping up to an i7 or a newer Ryzen 7 might yield better long-term value. When evaluating laptops with this chip, ensure the cooling solution is robust, as thermal throttling can significantly impact sustained performance. Overall, for students and casual creators, the i5-11260H delivers a well-rounded experience that shouldn't be overlooked.
Read the full reviewA solid 4-core processor that delivers excellent single-core performance for thin laptops, though its multi-core capabilities are limited by modern standards.
Best for: Purchasing a lightweight, portable laptop for everyday use and occasional gaming
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-11370H has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i5-11260H (35 W), Intel Core i7-11370H (28 W).
Do Core i5-11260H and Intel Core i7-11370H use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i5-11260H: Intel BGA 1787, Intel Core i7-11370H: Intel BGA 1449), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Core i5-11260H has the most cores. Core counts: Core i5-11260H (6 cores), Intel Core i7-11370H (4 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-11370H posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-11370H (11,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.