CPU Comparison
Core i7-1165G7 vs Core i7-1185G7
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-1165G7 is a high-end mobile processor introduced in September 2020 for thin-and-light laptops. Built on Intel's 10nm SuperFin process, it features 4 cores and 8 threads based on the Willow Cove architecture. Operating with a base frequency of 2.8 GHz and boosting up to 4.7 GHz, it was designed to deliver exceptional single-threaded performance for ultraportable devices. A defining feature of this chip is the integration of Iris Xe Graphics with 96 Execution Units, marking a massive leap in integrated GPU performance and enabling casual 1080p gaming without a discrete GPU. The processor supports both DDR4-3200 and LPDDR4X-4267 memory, ensuring high bandwidth for the integrated graphics. With a configurable TDP ranging from 12W to 28W, it balances power and performance. It also brings PCIe 4.0 support to mobile, allowing for faster SSD speeds. The i7-1165G7 was instrumental in Intel's competitive stance against AMD's Ryzen 4000 mobile series.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Snappy application launch and multitasking due to high single-core boost.
Excellent single-core performance makes everyday tasks and moderate multitasking extremely responsive.
Gaming
Capable of playing modern titles at 1080p medium settings thanks to Iris Xe.
Capable of playing e-sports titles and older games at 1080p, but struggles with AAA titles at high settings.
Virtualization
Adequate for light VMs, but limited by 4 cores.
Adequate for light virtualization, but 4 cores limit running multiple heavy VMs.
Efficiency
Excellent idle power and load efficiency on the 10nm node.
10nm process provides excellent performance per watt for ultrabook form factors.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- DL Boost for low-power AI inference
- GNA for background noise cancellation
- Features DLBoost for AI inference
- Suitable for light edge AI tasks
- No dedicated NPU
Content Creation
Gaming
- Excellent for an iGPU
- Requires dual-channel memory for best results
- Can play CS:GO and Valorant easily
- Iris Xe 96EU is a major upgrade
- Dependent on system memory configuration
- Not suitable for high-end gaming
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent single-core performance
- Iris Xe graphics are class-leading for integrated
- Great power efficiency
- Supports fast PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs
- Built on Intel's 10nm process
Cons
- Only 4 cores and 8 threads
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Multi-core performance lags behind AMD's 8-core mobile chips
- Can throttle under sustained load if laptop cooling is poor
Pros
- Excellent single-thread performance
- Integrated Iris Xe 96EU graphics
- 10nm SuperFin efficiency
- PCIe 4.0 support
- vPro enterprise features
Cons
- Only 4 cores limits multi-threading
- End-of-life status
- Limited PCIe lanes (4x)
- Locked multiplier
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-1165G7
- AMD Ryzen 7 4800URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-1135G7Rival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600URival
Mobile
12th Gen offers better efficiency and more cores.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
Budget-friendly with good multi-core performance.
Core i7-1185G7
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Rival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 3Rival
Mobile
Better value for similar daily performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5500UAlt
More cores for multi-threaded workloads.
Newer architecture with more cores.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5825UAlt
Superior integrated graphics and cores.
- Alt
Better efficiency and single-thread speed.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A landmark mobile processor that brought massive single-core and integrated graphics improvements to the ultrabook segment.
Best for: Purchasing a used or refurbished premium ultrabook for productivity and light gaming.
Read the full reviewA highly capable 4-core mobile processor that brought significant single-thread and integrated graphics improvements to the ultrabook market.
Best for: Buying a used or refurbished premium ultrabook.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-1165G7 or Core i7-1185G7?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-1165G7 comes out ahead with a score of 8.8/10. 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 i7-1165G7 or Core i7-1185G7?
For gaming, the Core i7-1165G7 leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Core i7-1165G7 and Core i7-1185G7.
Do Core i7-1165G7 and Core i7-1185G7 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-1165G7: Intel BGA 1449, Core i7-1185G7: BGA 1449), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-1185G7 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-1165G7 (4,500), Core i7-1185G7 (6,800). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.