CPU Comparison
Core i7-1165G7 vs Core i7-1185GRE
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.
Strong single-core performance for edge processing tasks.
Gaming
Capable of playing modern titles at 1080p medium settings thanks to Iris Xe.
Not intended for gaming, but Iris Xe handles it adequately if required.
Virtualization
Adequate for light VMs, but limited by 4 cores.
vPro and ECC make it excellent for lightweight edge virtualization.
Efficiency
Excellent idle power and load efficiency on the 10nm node.
10nm SuperFin ensures reliable 24/7 operation within 15W.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- DL Boost for low-power AI inference
- GNA for background noise cancellation
- DL Boost for edge AI inference
- GNA for low-power audio processing
Content Creation
Gaming
- Excellent for an iGPU
- Requires dual-channel memory for best results
- Can play CS:GO and Valorant easily
- Not targeted at gamers
- Graphics capable of driving industrial displays
- Can run 2D applications flawlessly
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
- Supports ECC memory for data integrity
- Long-term embedded lifecycle guarantee
- vPro Enterprise for remote management
- 96 EU Iris Xe graphics for machine vision
- Flexible 12W-28W configurable TDP
Cons
- Overkill and expensive for consumer use
- BGA soldered, requiring custom board design
- Only 4 cores limits heavy multi-threaded edge tasks
- Niche availability through industrial channels
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 i7-1185GRE
- AMD Ryzen Embedded V2748ARival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-1185G7Rival
Mobile
- Intel Xeon E-2386GRival
Workstation
- AMD Ryzen Embedded R2544ARival
Embedded
- NXP i.MX 8M PlusRival
Embedded
- Intel Core i7-1270PEAlt
Newer 12th Gen embedded with better efficiency and more cores.
- Intel Core i7-1085GREAlt
Older 10th Gen embedded alternative if Tiger Lake is unavailable.
- Intel Atom x6425REAlt
Lower power, cheaper alternative for light IoT tasks.
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 reliable, embedded-grade processor that combines Tiger Lake performance with ECC memory and long-term availability for critical systems.
Best for: System integrators designing IoT devices, medical equipment, or industrial PCs requiring ECC and long-term supply.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-1165G7 or Core i7-1185GRE?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-1185GRE comes out ahead with a score of 9/10. 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 i7-1185GRE?
For gaming, the Core i7-1165G7 leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Core i7-1165G7 and Core i7-1185GRE.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-1185GRE has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-1165G7 (28 W), Core i7-1185GRE (15 W).
Do Core i7-1165G7 and Core i7-1185GRE use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1449 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-1165G7 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-1165G7 (4,500), Core i7-1185GRE (4,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.