Quick Verdict
A legendary unlocked hybrid processor that combined an Intel CPU with AMD's highest-tier Vega graphics, offering exceptional performance and overclocking potential.
Overview
Launch
2018
Status
ActiveGeneration
8th Gen Core i7
Market
Mobile
The Intel Core i7-8809G is a flagship mobile processor launched in February 2018, representing the pinnacle of the unique Kaby Lake-G family. It is the unlocked version of the i7-8709G, combining an Intel 4-core, 8-thread CPU with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics on a single package. Built on Intel's 14nm process, the CPU operates at a base clock of 3.1 GHz and boosts up to 4.2 GHz. The standout feature is the Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics, featuring 1536 stream processors and 4GB of HBM2 memory, delivering performance comparable to an NVIDIA GTX 1060. The 'unlocked' designation means enthusiasts can overclock both the CPU and GPU frequencies to extract even more performance. With a 65W TDP, it is designed for high-end mini PCs and compact gaming systems where users are willing to tune their hardware. The i7-8809G remains a legendary chip, offering exceptional performance and tweakability in a tiny footprint.
The Intel Core i7-8809G is a Kaby Lake-G processor that combines a 4-core Intel CPU with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics and 4GB of HBM2 memory. As an unlocked chip, it allows overclocking for both CPU and GPU. With a 65W TDP, it delivers GTX 1060-class gaming performance and is ideal for enthusiast mini PCs.
Specifications
Performance
Strong CPU performance, especially when pushed beyond stock speeds.
Capable but limited by 4 cores.
Excellent 1080p gaming performance, further enhanced by overclocking capabilities.
Unlocked nature means it can draw significant power when overclocked.
- •Comparable to GTX 1060
- •Can be overclocked for extra performance
- •Excellent for VR
- •Radeon GPU supports OpenCL acceleration
Architecture
14nm
Process Node
Kaby Lake G
Codename
4C / 8T
Core Config
8 MB
L3 Cache
65 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Core i7-8809G utilizes the Kaby Lake-G architecture, a multi-chip package (MCP) integrating silicon from both Intel and AMD. The Intel CPU die is built on the 14nm process and features 4 cores with Hyper-Threading. The AMD Radeon RX Vega M GH GPU, built on GlobalFoundries' 14nm process, is the highest-tier variant with 1536 stream processors. The package includes 4GB of HBM2 memory, providing up to 102.4 GB/s of bandwidth directly to the GPU. The critical architectural difference of the 8809G is its unlocked designation. This means the architecture allows for the adjustment of CPU core ratios, GPU clock speeds, and power limits beyond stock specifications. This requires robust power delivery and cooling on the motherboard. The architecture routes 8 PCIe 3.0 lanes from the CPU to the GPU. This design remains a unique engineering feat, demonstrating how advanced packaging and heterogeneous integration can create a highly powerful and customizable compact computing solution.
CPU Design
4 cores with Hyper-Threading.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR4 support.
PCIe & I/O
8 PCIe 3.0 lanes (CPU only).
Overclocking
Unlocked multiplier for enthusiasts.
- Integrated high-end Radeon graphics
- Unlocked for overclocking
- HBM2 memory inclusion
Key Highlights
- Unlocked CPU and GPU for overclocking
- High-end Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics
- 4GB of HBM2 memory
- GTX 1060-class gaming performance
- Driver support has ended
- 65W TDP requires robust cooling
- Soldered and non-upgradable
- Runs very hot when overclocked
History
Launched in February 2018, the Core i7-8809G was the flagship of the groundbreaking Kaby Lake-G family and the only unlocked variant in the lineup. Born out of an unprecedented partnership between Intel and AMD, this processor aimed to bring enthusiast-grade gaming performance and overclocking to compact form factors. The 8809G combined an Intel 4-core CPU with AMD's highest-tier Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics and 4GB of HBM2 memory.
It was primarily deployed in the Intel NUC8 VR (NUC8i7HVK), a mini PC that defied expectations by offering GTX 1060-class performance in a device the size of a book. The creation of this unlocked chip was a direct appeal to the enthusiast community, showcasing the potential of advanced EMIB packaging. Although the partnership with AMD was short-lived, as Intel later developed its own Xe graphics, the 8809G remains a legendary chip that pushed the boundaries of integrated graphics and small form factor computing.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Integrated high-end Radeon graphics
- Unlocked for overclocking
- HBM2 memory inclusion
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
The Intel Core i7-8809G is a highly sought-after processor for enthusiast mini PC builders, specifically those using the Intel NUC8 VR (NUC8i7HVK) platform. It remains a highly capable solution for 1080p gaming at high settings and VR, offering performance comparable to a GTX 1060. The unlocked nature allows for significant performance gains through overclocking. It is an excellent choice for enthusiasts who want a compact, powerful, and tweakable system. However, driver support from Intel for the Radeon component has ended, meaning you may encounter compatibility issues with the latest games. Avoid this processor if you want a future-proof system or need the latest API support. It is best purchased for its unique hardware design, overclocking potential, and solid 1080p performance in small form factor builds.
Avoid if…
- You need driver support for the latest games
- You want an upgrade path
- You are not comfortable with overclocking
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
It is the only Kaby Lake-G processor with an unlocked multiplier.
It combines Intel CPU and AMD GPU silicon.
It includes 4GB of HBM2 memory on the package.
The Radeon GPU is based on the Vega architecture.
It was heavily featured in the Intel NUC8 VR (NUC8i7HVK).
The HBM2 memory provides massive bandwidth.
It uses the BGA 2270 socket.
The CPU has a max turbo frequency of 4.2 GHz.
It was designed to compete with NVIDIA's Max-Q designs.
Driver updates are handled by Intel, not AMD.
People Also Ask
Is the i7-8809G unlocked?
Yes, both the CPU and GPU are unlocked for overclocking.
Is the i7-8809G good for gaming?
Yes, its Radeon Vega M GH graphics offer GTX 1060-level performance for 1080p gaming.
What is the TDP of the i7-8809G?
It has a 65-watt TDP.
Does the i7-8809G have HBM2 memory?
Yes, it includes 4GB of HBM2 memory dedicated to the Radeon GPU.
What socket does the i7-8809G use?
It uses the Intel BGA 2270 socket.
Does the i7-8809G support DDR4?
Yes, it supports dual-channel DDR4 memory.
What is the difference between 8709G and 8809G?
The 8809G is the unlocked variant, allowing for overclocking and slightly higher boost clocks.
What generation is the i7-8809G?
It is an 8th Generation Intel Core processor.
Does the i7-8809G have integrated graphics?
Yes, it has AMD Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics.
Can the i7-8809G run Windows 11?
Yes, it is officially supported by Windows 11.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Core i7-8809G released?
It was released on February 1st, 2018.
What is the base clock of the i7-8809G?
The base clock is 3.1 GHz.
What is the max turbo frequency of the i7-8809G?
It can boost up to 4.2 GHz.
How much L3 cache does the i7-8809G have?
It has 8MB of L3 cache.
What memory speed does the i7-8809G support natively?
It natively supports DDR4-2400 memory.
What devices use the i7-8809G?
It is primarily found in the Intel NUC8 VR (NUC8i7HVK).
How many cores does the i7-8809G have?
It features 4 cores and 8 threads.
Who provides driver support for the i7-8809G?
Intel provides driver support for the entire package, including the AMD GPU.
Does the i7-8809G support Windows 11?
Yes, it is supported by Windows 11.
Can I overclock the GPU on the i7-8809G?
Yes, the Radeon RX Vega M GH graphics can be overclocked.