CPU Comparison
Core i7-1185G7 vs Core i7-1195G7 (IPU)
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.
5.0 GHz boost ensures maximum responsiveness for office tasks.
Gaming
Capable of playing e-sports titles and older games at 1080p, but struggles with AAA titles at high settings.
Not targeted at gaming; limited to 4 PCIe lanes unlike the standard 1195G7.
Virtualization
Adequate for light virtualization, but 4 cores limit running multiple heavy VMs.
Good for light VMs, but 4 cores limit heavy workloads.
Efficiency
10nm process provides excellent performance per watt for ultrabook form factors.
IPU offload significantly improves battery life during video calls.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DLBoost for AI inference
- Suitable for light edge AI tasks
- No dedicated NPU
- IPU 6.0 accelerates computer vision
- DLBoost for AI inference
- No dedicated NPU for general AI
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Xe 96EU is a major upgrade
- Dependent on system memory configuration
- Not suitable for high-end gaming
- Iris Xe 96EU handles casual games
- Only 4 PCIe lanes limits dGPU bandwidth
- Not intended for gaming laptops
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
- Dedicated IPU 6.0 for video conferencing
- 5.0 GHz single-core turbo
- Excellent battery life during calls
- Iris Xe 96EU graphics
Cons
- Only 4 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- 4 cores limit multi-threading
- End-of-life
- Niche feature set
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 i7-1195G7 (IPU)
- AMD Ryzen 7 PRO 5850URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1185G7Rival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 8cx Gen 2Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 PRO 5650URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1195G7Alt
Better for gaming with 16 PCIe lanes if IPU is unneeded.
- Intel Core i7-1280PAlt
Newer architecture with more cores and better efficiency.
- Alt
Superior efficiency and video processing.
Compare head-to-head Budget alternative for office use.
Compare head-to-head
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 reviewAn excellent processor for professionals, combining 5.0 GHz speeds with a dedicated image processing unit for superior webcam quality.
Best for: Professionals seeking a used premium business laptop with excellent webcam quality.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-1185G7 or Core i7-1195G7 (IPU)?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-1195G7 (IPU) comes out ahead with a score of 8.3/10. 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 i7-1185G7 or Core i7-1195G7 (IPU)?
For gaming, the Core i7-1185G7 leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Core i7-1185G7 and Core i7-1195G7 (IPU).
Do Core i7-1185G7 and Core i7-1195G7 (IPU) use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the BGA 1449 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-1195G7 (IPU) posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-1185G7 (6,800), Core i7-1195G7 (IPU) (7,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.