CPU Comparison
Core i7-1185G7 vs Intel Core i7-1260P
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.
Excels at multitasking, heavy office workloads, and web browsing with dozens of tabs open.
Gaming
Capable of playing e-sports titles and older games at 1080p, but struggles with AAA titles at high settings.
Handles esports titles and older games at 1080p well, but struggles with demanding AAA titles without a discrete GPU.
Virtualization
Adequate for light virtualization, but 4 cores limit running multiple heavy VMs.
Capable of running local virtual machines for development purposes, though limited by memory bandwidth.
Efficiency
10nm process provides excellent performance per watt for ultrabook form factors.
The E-cores provide excellent idle and low-load efficiency, extending battery life significantly.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DLBoost for AI inference
- Suitable for light edge AI tasks
- No dedicated NPU
- Uses CPU-based inference for AI workloads
- Lacks a dedicated NPU found in later Meteor Lake generations
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Xe 96EU is a major upgrade
- Dependent on system memory configuration
- Not suitable for high-end gaming
- Relies on Iris Xe 96EU integrated graphics
- Suitable for Minecraft, CS:GO, and League of Legends
- Not recommended for modern AAA gaming without discrete GPU
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
- Excellent multi-core performance for a 28W chip
- Hybrid architecture improves multitasking heavily
- Supports fast DDR5 memory
- Strong integrated graphics (96EU)
- Good sustained performance in well-cooled chassis
Cons
- 28W base TDP requires decent cooling
- No unlocked multiplier for overclocking
- Soldered to the motherboard (BGA)
- Battery life is shorter than 15W U-series equivalents
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
Intel Core i7-1260P
- AMD Ryzen 7 6800URival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 6600URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-1185G7Rival
Mobile
Offers slightly higher clock speeds for marginally better performance.
Compare head-to-headBetter battery life in thinner chassis due to 15W TDP.
Compare head-to-headSimilar P-core count but lower price point in laptops.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 7735UAlt
Excellent efficiency and integrated graphics performance.
Lower power consumption variant for premium ultrabooks.
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 reviewA highly capable mobile processor that brought desktop-class hybrid architecture to thin-and-light laptops, offering excellent multi-core scaling.
Best for: Purchasing a used or discounted premium ultrabook from 2022.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-1185G7 or Intel Core i7-1260P?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-1260P comes out ahead with a score of 8.2/10. 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 i7-1185G7 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-1185G7 (28 W), Intel Core i7-1260P (64 W).
Do Core i7-1185G7 and Intel Core i7-1260P use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-1185G7: BGA 1449, Intel Core i7-1260P: Intel BGA 1744), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-1260P has the most cores. Core counts: Core i7-1185G7 (4 cores), Intel Core i7-1260P (12 cores).
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), Intel Core i7-1260P (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.