CPU Comparison
Core i7-1185G7 vs Core i7-1185GRE
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-1185G7 is a high-end mobile processor introduced in late 2020 as part of the 11th Generation Tiger Lake lineup. Built on Intel's 10nm SuperFin process, it features 4 cores and 8 threads, utilizing the Willow Cove architecture to deliver significant single-threaded performance improvements over its predecessors. With a base clock of 3.0 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 4.8 GHz, this CPU is engineered for thin-and-light laptops where burst performance is crucial. It integrates Intel Iris Xe-LP Graphics with 96 Execution Units, providing a massive leap in integrated GPU performance. The processor supports PCIe 4.0 and fast LPDDR4X memory, ensuring excellent system responsiveness. Operating within a 28W default TDP, configurable down to 12W, the i7-1185G7 balances power efficiency and performance. Although it has reached end-of-life status, it remains a notable chip that marked Intel's transition to 10nm mobile processors.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Excellent single-core performance makes everyday tasks and moderate multitasking extremely responsive.
Strong single-core performance for edge processing tasks.
Gaming
Capable of playing e-sports titles and older games at 1080p, but struggles with AAA titles at high settings.
Not intended for gaming, but Iris Xe handles it adequately if required.
Virtualization
Adequate for light virtualization, but 4 cores limit running multiple heavy VMs.
vPro and ECC make it excellent for lightweight edge virtualization.
Efficiency
10nm process provides excellent performance per watt for ultrabook form factors.
10nm SuperFin ensures reliable 24/7 operation within 15W.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DLBoost for AI inference
- Suitable for light edge AI tasks
- No dedicated NPU
- DL Boost for edge AI inference
- GNA for low-power audio processing
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Xe 96EU is a major upgrade
- Dependent on system memory configuration
- Not suitable for high-end gaming
- 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-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
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 i7-1185G7
- 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
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 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 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 i7-1185G7 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 uses less power?
The Core i7-1185GRE has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-1185G7 (28 W), Core i7-1185GRE (15 W).
Do Core i7-1185G7 and Core i7-1185GRE use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-1185G7: BGA 1449, Core i7-1185GRE: Intel 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 i7-1185G7 (6,800), Core i7-1185GRE (4,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.