CPU Comparison
Core i5-11500H vs Intel Core i7-11850H
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-11500H is a step-up mobile processor within the Tiger Lake-H series, designed to offer enhanced performance for demanding gaming and creator laptops. Launched in May 2021, this 10nm processor features 6 cores and 12 threads, but distinguishes itself with higher clock speeds, boasting a 2.4 GHz base and boosting up to 4.6 GHz. This makes it one of the fastest i5 mobile chips of its generation. With a base TDP of 35W configurable up to 45W, it is built for thicker chassis that can handle sustained performance loads. The chip comes with 12MB of Intel Smart Cache and 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes, ensuring robust bandwidth for dedicated GPUs and fast storage. Unlike lower-tier i5s, it also features the UHD Graphics 750 with Xe architecture, providing better integrated graphics performance. For users seeking near-i7 performance at an i5 price, the 11500H strikes an excellent balance.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles heavy multitasking and creator workloads with ease.
Strong multi-core performance handles heavy productivity workloads efficiently.
Gaming
Excellent performance in modern titles, minimizing bottlenecks for mid-to-high end GPUs.
Excellent gaming performance, capable of driving high-refresh-rate displays when paired with RTX 30-series mobile GPUs.
Virtualization
Solid performance for running multiple VMs.
16 threads and AVX-512 support make it highly capable for local virtual machine hosting.
Efficiency
Good efficiency, though it draws more power at max turbo.
10nm process improves efficiency, but 45W configurations still require robust laptop cooling.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- AVX-512 support accelerates AI tasks
- Intel DL Boost for deep learning
- GNA 2.0 for voice processing
- AVX-512 instructions accelerate some AI workloads
- No dedicated NPU hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- Minimizes bottlenecks for RTX 3060/3070 mobile GPUs
- High single-core boost for CPU-heavy games
- Smooth high-refresh-rate 1080p experience
- High boost clocks ensure strong single-core performance
- PCIe 4.0 reduces GPU bandwidth bottlenecks
- Performs exceptionally well in CPU-bound esports titles
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- High 4.6 GHz turbo clock
- Superior UHD Graphics 750 (Xe 32 EUs)
- Supports PCIe 4.0
- Includes vPro support for business
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- High power draw under full load (45W)
- Soldered to motherboard
- Still limited to DDR4
Pros
- Excellent 8-core mobile performance
- Includes 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Large 24MB L3 cache
- Supports AVX-512 instructions
Cons
- Locked multiplier prevents overclocking
- Requires robust laptop cooling at 45W
- Does not support DDR5 memory
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i5-11500H
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1 ProRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-11400HAlt
A slightly cheaper option with lower clocks and basic UHD graphics.
Newer 12th gen with better overall efficiency.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 6600HAlt
A newer alternative with Zen 3+ architecture and DDR5 support.
Intel Core i7-11850H
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900HXRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-11900HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1 ProRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-11400HAlt
Better value for purely gaming workloads.
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900HSAlt
Lighter and more efficient for thin-and-light gaming.
Newer hybrid architecture with significantly more performance.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A top-tier i5 mobile CPU offering excellent clock speeds and superior integrated graphics for creators.
Best for: The Intel Core i5-11500H is an excellent choice for users looking for a high-performance mobile processor without paying the premium of an i7. If you are considering a used or refurbished gaming laptop from 2021-2022, this processor offers exceptional value, delivering near top-tier single-core speeds that are highly beneficial for gaming. It is particularly attractive for content creators who can leverage the Xe-based UHD 750 integrated graphics for quick encodes and basic graphical tasks. However, buyers should ensure that the laptop's cooling system is adequate, as the 45W configurable TDP can generate significant heat under load. For new purchases, comparing it against newer 12th or 13th Gen i5s is advisable, as the newer generations offer better efficiency. Nonetheless, for a budget gaming rig or creator notebook, the 11500H remains a highly capable and cost-effective processor.
Read the full reviewA highly capable mobile processor that delivers excellent multi-core performance and PCIe 4.0 connectivity, though newer generations offer better efficiency.
Best for: Purchasing a discounted gaming laptop on the used market.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Core i5-11500H or Intel Core i7-11850H?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-11850H leads with a gaming performance score of 88/100 among Core i5-11500H and Intel Core i7-11850H.
Do Core i5-11500H and Intel Core i7-11850H use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1787 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-11850H has the most cores. Core counts: Core i5-11500H (6 cores), Intel Core i7-11850H (8 cores).