CPU Comparison
Core i7-1165G7 vs Intel Core i7-1255U
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.
Highly responsive for daily office tasks, with plenty of E-cores to keep background apps from slowing down the system.
Gaming
Capable of playing modern titles at 1080p medium settings thanks to Iris Xe.
Can run esports games like League of Legends smoothly, but struggles with modern AAA titles on integrated graphics.
Virtualization
Adequate for light VMs, but limited by 4 cores.
Good for light Docker containers, but 2 P-cores limit performance when running full Windows VMs.
Efficiency
Excellent idle power and load efficiency on the 10nm node.
Excellent power management ensures long battery life during typical office use.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- DL Boost for low-power AI inference
- GNA for background noise cancellation
- No NPU
- AI workloads handled by CPU/GPU
Content Creation
Gaming
- Excellent for an iGPU
- Requires dual-channel memory for best results
- Can play CS:GO and Valorant easily
- Iris Xe 96EU handles 1080p low settings for older games
- Throttles under sustained 3D loads
- Best paired with a discrete GPU for serious 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 performance-per-watt
- Very flexible memory support
- Good single-core burst performance
- Plenty of PCIe lanes for an ultrabook chip
- Reliable Iris Xe integrated graphics
Cons
- Only 2 P-cores limit heavy multi-threading
- Soldered to the motherboard
- Can get warm during 55W turbo bursts
- Not suitable for gaming without a discrete GPU
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.
Intel Core i7-1255U
- AMD Ryzen 7 7730URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 6800URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M2Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 6600URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1185G7Rival
Mobile
Offers slightly higher clock speeds (4.8 GHz) for marginally better burst performance.
Compare head-to-headA more cost-effective alternative that offers very similar everyday performance.
Compare head-to-headBetter sustained performance if you can accommodate the 28W TDP.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 7735UAlt
Strong alternative with better integrated graphics efficiency.
- Intel Core i7-1355UAlt
The 13th Gen successor with refined efficiency and clock speeds.
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 efficient and popular 15W processor that powers a vast majority of mid-range premium ultrabooks, offering great daily responsiveness.
Best for: Buying a standard ultrabook for school or office work where you need strong battery life and snappy daily performance.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-1165G7 or Intel Core i7-1255U?
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 Intel Core i7-1255U?
For gaming, the Core i7-1165G7 leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Core i7-1165G7 and Intel Core i7-1255U.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-1165G7 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-1165G7 (28 W), Intel Core i7-1255U (55 W).
Do Core i7-1165G7 and Intel Core i7-1255U use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-1165G7: Intel BGA 1449, Intel Core i7-1255U: Intel BGA 1744), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-1255U has the most cores. Core counts: Core i7-1165G7 (4 cores), Intel Core i7-1255U (10 cores).
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), Intel Core i7-1255U (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.