CPU Comparison
Core i5-11320H vs Intel Core i7-11600H
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-11320H is a mobile processor that blurs the line between thin-and-light portability and enthusiast performance. Released in June 2021 as part of the Tiger Lake-H family, it is designed for thinner gaming laptops and creator devices. Unlike standard U-series chips, the 11320H packs a 28W TDP, allowing for higher sustained performance. It features 4 cores and 8 threads, built on Intel's 10nm SuperFin process. What makes this SKU particularly interesting is its integrated graphics; it boasts Intel Iris Xe graphics with 96 Execution Units, the highest configuration available for an i5 at the time. This makes it uniquely capable for a chip without a dedicated GPU. With a base clock of 2.5 GHz and a max turbo of 4.5 GHz, it delivers snappy single-threaded performance, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious creators and gamers.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Fast single-core performance makes everyday tasks feel instant.
12 threads handle standard productivity suites and moderate multitasking without issue.
Gaming
Impressive for integrated graphics; can play older AAA and eSports titles well.
Excellent for 1080p high-refresh-rate gaming; rarely bottlenecks mid-range mobile GPUs.
Virtualization
4 cores limit heavy VM workflows, but adequate for one or two instances.
Can run basic VMs, but 6 cores may limit heavy virtualization environments.
Efficiency
28W TDP is efficient for an H-series but runs warmer than U-series.
The 10nm node keeps power draw reasonable, extending laptop battery life during light use.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- GNA 2.0 for AI noise cancellation and background blur
- AVX-512 support aids basic inferencing
- Lacks dedicated AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- 96 EUs provide a noticeable step up over 80 EUs
- Can play GTA V, CS:GO, and Valorant easily
- 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
- Powerful 96EU Iris Xe graphics
- High 4.5 GHz turbo boost
- 28W TDP allows for sustained performance
- Supports PCIe 4.0
- Good single-core speed
Cons
- Only 4 cores and 8 threads
- No DDR5 support
- 10nm process is now outdated
- Locked multiplier
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
Core i5-11320H
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11375HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-11300HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-11400HAlt
6-core variant within the same generation for better multi-core performance.
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Lower TDP alternative with similar graphics if you want an ultrabook.
Newer Alder Lake chip with 8 cores for significantly better performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5625UAlt
More efficient and offers comparable multi-core performance.
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 unique Tiger Lake chip that offers the best integrated graphics Intel had to offer, perfect for budget creators.
Best for: Budget creator or gaming laptops
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, Core i5-11320H or Intel Core i7-11600H?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-11600H comes out ahead with a score of 8/10. 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, Core i5-11320H or Intel Core i7-11600H?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-11600H leads with a gaming performance score of 85/100 among Core i5-11320H and Intel Core i7-11600H.
Which uses less power?
The Core i5-11320H has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i5-11320H (28 W), Intel Core i7-11600H (35 W).
Do Core i5-11320H and Intel Core i7-11600H use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i5-11320H: Intel BGA 1449, Intel Core i7-11600H: Intel BGA 1787), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-11600H has the most cores. Core counts: Core i5-11320H (4 cores), Intel Core i7-11600H (6 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i5-11320H posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i5-11320H (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.