CPU Comparison
Core i7-1185G7 vs Intel Core i7-4960HQ
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.
The 8MB cache helps with productivity tasks.
Gaming
Capable of playing e-sports titles and older games at 1080p, but struggles with AAA titles at high settings.
Good for older games, but lacks power for modern AAA titles.
Virtualization
Adequate for light virtualization, but 4 cores limit running multiple heavy VMs.
Handles VMs well for legacy systems.
Efficiency
10nm process provides excellent performance per watt for ultrabook form factors.
22nm process is less efficient than modern alternatives.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Features DLBoost for AI inference
- Suitable for light edge AI tasks
- No dedicated NPU
- No AI-specific hardware
- Slow inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Iris Xe 96EU is a major upgrade
- Dependent on system memory configuration
- Not suitable for high-end gaming
- eDRAM helps with frame rates
- Adequate for indie games
- Not suitable for modern high-end gaming
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
- Still active for embedded markets
- 8MB L3 cache
- Strong Iris Pro integrated graphics
Cons
- Outdated 22nm process
- High 47W TDP
- Expensive if bought new for embedded use
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 i7-4960HQ
- AMD A10-5750MRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-4700MQRival
Mobile
- AMD FX-7600PRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3632QMRival
Mobile
- Qualcomm Snapdragon 800Rival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800UAlt
Vastly superior efficiency and multi-core performance.
- Intel Core i7-1185G7Alt
Modern architecture with much faster single-core speeds.
- Alt
Incredible performance per watt for mobile workstations.
Compare head-to-head Hybrid architecture offers significantly better multi-threading.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5625UAlt
Modern budget alternative with strong battery life.
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 robust mobile processor that still sees use in embedded systems due to its reliable 22nm architecture and eDRAM.
Best for: Industrial or legacy system replacement. When considering the purchase of a system with the Core i7-4960HQ today, the context is crucial. For modern consumer use, it is heavily outdated and outperformed by even low-tier contemporary processors. However, because it remains listed as active for embedded markets, it may still be relevant for specific industrial systems requiring legacy support. For general consumers, buying a used laptop with this CPU should only be done at a rock-bottom price. It remains functional for basic computing tasks and older games, but its power efficiency pales in comparison to current architectures. Do not invest in this platform for a primary work or gaming machine today.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-1185G7 or Intel Core i7-4960HQ?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-1185G7 comes out ahead with a score of 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 i7-1185G7 or Intel Core i7-4960HQ?
For gaming, the Core i7-1185G7 leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Core i7-1185G7 and Intel Core i7-4960HQ.
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 i7-4960HQ (47 W).
Do Core i7-1185G7 and Intel Core i7-4960HQ use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-1185G7: BGA 1449, Intel Core i7-4960HQ: Intel BGA 1364), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-4960HQ posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-1185G7 (6,800), Intel Core i7-4960HQ (8,600). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.