Quick Verdict
A premium 28W mobile CPU that combined high clock speeds with Iris graphics, delivering an excellent balance of CPU and GPU performance for 2013.
Overview
Launch
2013
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
4th Gen Core i7
Market
Mobile
The Intel Core i7-4558U is a specialized mobile processor launched in June 2013 as part of the 4th Generation Haswell-ULT family. Designed for premium thin-and-light laptops, it operates at a higher 28-watt TDP compared to standard 15W U-series processors. Built on the 22nm process, it features 2 cores and 4 threads. The increased power envelope allows for a significantly higher base clock of 2.8 GHz and a boost clock of up to 3.3 GHz. It includes 4MB of L3 cache and integrates Intel Iris Graphics 5100, which offers superior graphical performance compared to standard HD graphics. This makes the i7-4558U uniquely capable of handling light gaming and hardware-accelerated video editing without a dedicated GPU. While it runs warmer than standard ultrabook chips, its combination of high clock speeds and powerful integrated graphics makes it a sought-after option for compact, high-performance portable systems.
The Intel Core i7-4558U is a Haswell mobile processor operating at a 28W TDP. Featuring 2 cores, 4 threads, and boost speeds up to 3.3 GHz, it is faster than standard 15W U-series chips.
Its standout feature is the Intel Iris Graphics 5100, providing excellent integrated graphical performance for a mobile chip.
Specifications
Performance
High clock speeds ensure good performance in office apps.
Capable of running one light VM, but limited by 2 cores.
Iris 5100 allows for playable frame rates in older or well-optimized games.
28W TDP is warmer than 15W parts but justified by performance.
- •Iris 5100 is a major step up from HD 4400
- •Can run older games at low settings
- •Not suitable for modern AAA titles
- •No dedicated AI hardware
Architecture
22nm
Process Node
Haswell-ULT
Codename
2C / 4T
Core Config
4 MB
L3 Cache
28 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Core i7-4558U utilizes the Haswell-ULT microarchitecture, but distinguishes itself through a 28-watt TDP configuration and enhanced integrated graphics. Built on the 22nm process, it features 2 cores and 4 threads. The higher TDP allows the architecture to maintain a 2.8 GHz base clock, significantly higher than the 1.8 GHz of its 15W counterpart. The most critical architectural feature is the integration of Intel Iris Graphics 5100, which features 40 execution units and 128MB of embedded DRAM (eDRAM). This eDRAM acts as a high-speed cache for both the GPU and the CPU, drastically reducing memory latency and boosting graphical performance. The architecture supports dual-channel DDR3 memory. By combining high sustained CPU frequencies with a powerful integrated GPU solution, this architecture was specifically tailored to meet the demands of premium, compact laptops that required strong compute and graphical capabilities.
CPU Design
2 cores with Hyper-Threading.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR3 support.
PCIe & I/O
12 PCIe 3.0 lanes.
Overclocking
Locked multiplier.
- Iris 5100 graphics
- Higher clock speeds
- Better IPC
Key Highlights
- High 3.3 GHz boost clock
- Iris 5100 graphics with eDRAM
- 28W TDP allows good sustained performance
- Excellent single-core speed
- Runs warmer than 15W U-series chips
- Soldered to motherboard
- 22nm process is outdated
- Only 2 cores
History
Introduced on June 4, 2013, the Core i7-4558U was a specialized processor designed to bridge the gap between low-power ultrabook chips and high-performance mobile processors. It was primarily deployed in Apple's 2013 13-inch MacBook Pro, offering a 28W power envelope that allowed for higher sustained clock speeds. The inclusion of Intel Iris Graphics 5100 with 128MB of eDRAM was a defining feature, providing a significant graphical boost over the standard HD 4400 found in 15W chips.
This processor represented Intel's strategy of utilizing eDRAM to enhance integrated graphics performance before the transition to dedicated Iris Pro graphics architectures. While it delivered excellent performance for its size, it was eventually overshadowed by Apple's transition to its own M-series silicon. Nevertheless, the i7-4558U remains a notable chip in Intel's history, showcasing the potential of high-end integrated graphics in compact form factors.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Iris 5100 graphics
- Higher clock speeds
- Better IPC
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Not Recommended for the right buyer
If you are considering a laptop with the Intel Core i7-4558U, you are likely looking at a used MacBook Pro or a premium ultrabook. This processor remains capable for everyday productivity, programming, and light 1080p video editing. The inclusion of Iris 5100 graphics provides a noticeable boost in graphical tasks compared to standard U-series chips. It is an excellent choice for users who need a compact, moderately powerful machine without paying the premium for modern hardware. However, be aware that it is an older Intel-based Mac, meaning it will eventually lose macOS support. Avoid this processor if you need to run modern AAA games or heavy 3D rendering workloads. It is best purchased at a discount for general use.
Avoid if…
- You need Windows on ARM
- You want the latest macOS features
- You need to run heavy 4K video timelines
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
It is essentially a higher-binned i7-4500U with better graphics.
It includes Intel Iris Graphics 5100.
It was heavily featured in the 2013 MacBook Pro.
The 28W TDP allows for a much higher base clock than standard U-series.
It supports Intel Quick Sync Video for fast hardware encoding.
The chip uses the BGA 1168 socket.
Its integrated graphics have 40 execution units.
It supports dual-channel DDR3 memory up to 1600 MT/s.
The processor is locked and cannot be overclocked.
It was one of the first Intel processors to use eDRAM.
People Also Ask
Is the i7-4558U good for gaming?
It is surprisingly capable for light gaming thanks to its Iris 5100 graphics.
What is the TDP of the i7-4558U?
It has a 28-watt TDP, higher than standard 15W U-series chips.
Does the i7-4558U have eDRAM?
Yes, it includes 128MB of eDRAM for its integrated graphics.
What Mac uses the i7-4558U?
It was used in the 2013 13-inch MacBook Pro.
Can the i7-4558U be overclocked?
No, it is a locked processor.
What is the base clock of the i7-4558U?
It has a high base clock of 2.8 GHz.
Does the i7-4558U support DDR4?
No, it supports DDR3 memory.
What graphics are in the i7-4558U?
It features Intel Iris Graphics 5100.
Is the i7-4558U better than the i7-4500U?
Yes, it has higher clocks and significantly better integrated graphics.
What generation is the i7-4558U?
It is a 4th Generation Intel Core processor.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Core i7-4558U released?
It was released on June 4th, 2013.
What is the max turbo frequency of the i7-4558U?
It can boost up to 3.3 GHz.
How much L3 cache does the i7-4558U have?
It has 4MB of L3 cache.
What socket does the i7-4558U use?
It uses the Intel BGA 1168 socket.
What memory speed does the i7-4558U support natively?
It natively supports DDR3-1600 memory.
Is the i7-4558U unlocked?
No, the multiplier is locked.
Does the i7-4558U support Quick Sync Video?
Yes, it supports Intel Quick Sync Video.
How many cores does the i7-4558U have?
It features 2 cores and 4 threads.
Does the i7-4558U support Windows 11?
No, it is not officially supported by Windows 11.
What is the die size of the i7-4558U?
The die size is 118 mm².