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Intel Core i7 1260P Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£380
  • Avg. price in US: ~$440
  • PassMark benchmark result: 16566
  • N. of physical cores: 12
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.7 GHz

Intel Core i7 1260P review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

6.2

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

6.2

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

5.4

Performance

18.0%

7.5

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.9

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.7

Platform

1.0%

8.1

Integrated Graphics

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 5.6
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.8

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    5.9

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    6.7

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    3.5

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    5.1

    N. of physical cores

  • 4.7
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    4.6

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    5.1

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    5.2

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    3.5

    L3 cache

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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £380

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i7-1260P is a 12th Gen Alder Lake-P processor designed for thin-and-light laptops, featuring a hybrid architecture with 12 cores (4 Performance and 8 Efficient) and 16 threads. It operates with a base power of 28W, can boost up to 4.70 GHz, and includes 18MB of Intel Smart Cache alongside integrated Iris Xe Graphics with 96 execution units. Main pros include significantly improved multi-threaded performance over previous generations, support for high-speed LPDDR5-5200 memory, and AI acceleration through DL Boost. Notable cons include high energy consumption under heavy loads compared to AMD's Ryzen 5000 series, a tendency to run hot in slim chassis, and a dependence on robust cooling to maintain its maximum 64W turbo power levels.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 1260P

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

?

Performance

18.0%

?

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

?

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

?

Power & Thermal

4.0%

?

Platform

1.0%

?

Integrated Graphics

6.2
Intel Core i7 1260P has a technical score of 6.15 points, which is higher than that of 66.9% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
1.0
Intel Core i7 1260P has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.2

Overall score

40.0%

8.5

Price

6.9
Intel Core i7 1260P has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.9 points, which is higher than 69% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

mobile
Intel Core i7 1260P belongs to the mobile processor class, which is more advanced than that of 7.3% of processors and equal to that of 48.6% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

FCBGA1744
Intel Core i7 1260P uses the FCBGA1744 CPU socket, which is older than that of 71% of processors and equal to that of 5.1% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

Z690, H670, B660, H610
Intel Core i7 1260P supports Z690, H670, B660, H610 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 81.1% of processors and equal to that of 0.2% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
Intel Core i7 1260P uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

12
Intel Core i7 1260P has 12 CPU cores, which is more than 81.5% of processors and equal to 5.5% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

16
Intel Core i7 1260P offers 16 CPU threads, which is more than 71.1% of processors and equal to 13.9% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

?
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

4.7 GHz
Intel Core i7 1260P reaches a boost clock of 4.7 GHz which is higher than that of 67.1% of processors and equal to that of 3.7% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

4 x 2.1 GHz & 8 x 1.5 GHz
Intel Core i7 1260P has a base clock of 4x2.1 GHz & 8x1.5 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

10 nm
Intel Core i7 1260P uses a 10 nm process node, which is more advanced than that of 52.3% of processors and equal to that of 19.1% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel 7
Intel Core i7 1260P is built on the Intel 7 foundry process, which is more advanced than that of 66.2% of processors and equal to that of 14.9% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

18 MB
Intel Core i7 1260P has an L3 cache of 18 MB which is larger than that of 77.2% of processors and equal to that of 2% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

9 MB
Intel Core i7 1260P has an L2 cache of 9 MB which is larger than that of 77.8% of processors and equal to that of 0.8% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5
Intel Core i7 1260P supports DDR DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5, which is newer than that of 95.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.5% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

5,200 MHz
Intel Core i7 1260P supports memory speeds up to 5200 MHz, which is higher than that of 72.1% of processors and equal to 7% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR5-4800 MHz
Intel Core i7 1260P supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR5-4800 MHz, which is higher than that of 66.5% of processors and equal to 5.6% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

N/A
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

64 GB
Intel Core i7 1260P supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Intel Core i7 1260P includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU
Intel Core i7 1260P uses the Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 81.1% of processors and equal to that in 2.9% of processors.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

96
Intel Core i7 1260P has 96 GPU execution units, which is more than 95.1% of processors and equal to 4% of processors.
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

300 MHz
Intel Core i7 1260P has an integrated GPU clock of 300 MHz which is lower than that of 57% of processors and equal to that of 38.7% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

AV1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i7 1260P supports AV1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 63.1% of processors and equal to 10.8% of processors.
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

28 W
Intel Core i7 1260P has a TDP of 28 W which is lower than that of 67.2% of processors and equal to that of 7.2% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

28 W
Intel Core i7 1260P has a base power of 28 W which is lower than that of 67.2% of processors and equal to that of 6.8% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

64 W
Intel Core i7 1260P has a boost power of 64 W which is lower than that of 49.3% of processors and equal to that of 3% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

28 seconds
Intel Core i7 1260P has a turbo duration of 28 seconds which is longer than that of 3.8% of processors and equal to that of 85% of processors.
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

yes
Intel Core i7 1260P supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
cTDP: 1.2 W
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Intel Core i7 1260P vs the average processor

  • 6 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more CPU cores than the average processor (12 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
    When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 8+

    Intel Core i7 1260P has more CPU cores than the average processor (12 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.12 vs 6
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i7 1260P supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 vs DDR4).
    What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
    When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: DDR5

    Intel Core i7 1260P supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 vs DDR4).DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 vs DDR4
  • 2.5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
    E-core module: 2 MB shared by 4 cores
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    Intel Core i7 1260P has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.1.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • 98.9% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9,532 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9,532 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.9,532 vs 4,793
  • 3.6x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (9 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
    What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
    When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=6 MB

    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (9 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.9 MB vs 2.5 MB
  • 8 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
    What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
    When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 16+

    Intel Core i7 1260P has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.16 vs 8
  • Uses big.LITTLE design
    Intel Core i7 1260P uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Combines high-performance cores with lower-power efficiency cores instead of relying on just one core type.
    When it matters: When you want strong burst performance in demanding tasks without wasting as much power during lighter background work.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i7 1260P uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
  • 29.8% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,222 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,222 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.3,222 vs 2,483
  • Includes crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 1260P includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
  • Supports HMP
    Intel Core i7 1260P supports HMP, the average processor does not.
  • 6 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more CPU cores than the average processor (12 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 98.9% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9,532 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 8 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 29.8% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,222 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 39.8% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,056 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 9.3% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 44.3% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (4,017 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 57.3% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (16,566 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 2 wider front-end design
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher front-end width than the average processor (6 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
  • 2.5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 3.6x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (9 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • Uses big.LITTLE design
    Intel Core i7 1260P uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i7 1260P uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Alder Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • 2.25x larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (18 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • More advanced foundry
    Intel Core i7 1260P uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 7 vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 16.7% smaller process node
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a lower process node than the average processor (10 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i7 1260P supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5/LPDDR4X/LPDDR5 vs DDR4).
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i7 1260P supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (4 vs 3.0).
  • 4 more PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (20 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 77.3% higher memory speed
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (5,200 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 4x more GPU execution units
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more GPU execution units than the average processor (96 vs 24). The average processor has 24 GPU execution units.
  • Better integrated GPU
    Intel Core i7 1260P uses a better integrated GPU than the average processor (Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96EU vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 1 more supported displays
    Intel Core i7 1260P has more supported displays than the average processor (4 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.
  • 37.8% lower base power
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a lower base power draw than the average processor (28 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 37.8% lower TDP
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a lower TDP than the average processor (28 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.

Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 1260P uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,744 vs FP2).
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i7 1260P supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 7 lower clock multiplier
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (21 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • 21.9% larger die size
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher die size than the average processor (217 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 12.5% less L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 1260P has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i7 1260P supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
  • 21.9% larger die size
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher die size than the average processor (217 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
    What it is: The physical area of the processor die, usually measured in square millimeters.
    When it matters: When you are comparing chip scale, packaging density, or broader design differences rather than direct user-visible performance.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <150 mm²

    Intel Core i7 1260P has a higher die size than the average processor (217 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².217 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i7 1260P supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
    What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
    When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i7 1260P supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)
  • 12.5% less L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 1260P has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2 MB/core

    Intel Core i7 1260P has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.1.5 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • 52% more expensive
    Intel Core i7 1260P is more expensive than the average processor (£380 vs £250).
    Intel Core i7 1260P is more expensive than the average processor (£380 vs £250).£380 vs £250
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 1260P uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,744 vs FP2).
    What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
    When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

    Importance: HIGH

    Intel Core i7 1260P uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,744 vs FP2).FCBGA1744 vs FP2
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i7 1260P supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
    What it is: The supported CPU instruction sets and extensions.
    When it matters: When you run software that depends on specific CPU instructions.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i7 1260P supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
  • 7 lower clock multiplier
    Intel Core i7 1260P has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (21 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
    What it is: The ratio used to derive CPU frequency from the base clock.
    When it matters: When you tune or compare overclocking behavior.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >33

    Intel Core i7 1260P has a lower clock multiplier than the average processor (21 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.21 vs 28
Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Integrated Graphics

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 1260P and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i7 1260P?

  • Significantly improved multi-core performance compared to previous 11th Gen processors
  • Snappy and responsive user experience in Windows 11 and daily multitasking
  • Capable of handling sustained multi-threaded workloads like programming and creative tasks
  • Punchy CPU performance that can 'punch above its weight' in ultraportable laptop designs
  • Good support for AI-accelerated workloads due to built-in hardware acceleration
  • Reliable for professional use-cases like 4K video editing and CAD when paired with adequate cooling

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 1260P?

  • High power consumption compared to competitors, leading to poor energy efficiency
  • Prone to running hot, which often triggers thermal throttling in thin-and-light chassis
  • Minimal improvements in integrated GPU performance compared to the previous generation
  • Battery life can be disappointing, often failing to reach manufacturer-claimed durations during heavy use
  • Heavily dependent on laptop cooling solutions and power limits to reach its full performance potential
  • Can be 'overkill' for basic web browsing or light tasks, leading to unnecessary battery drain

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
29/03/2026
Intel Core i7-1260P - CPU Benchmarks Would you like a comparison of this processor against a specific competitor like the Ryzen 7 6800U?

The Intel Core i7-1260P is a 12th-generation laptop processor featuring 12 cores (4P + 8E) and 16 threads, offering a 4.70 GHz max turbo frequency for balanced productivity performance. Key advantages include strong multi-threaded capability and the capable Intel Iris Xe (96EU) integrated graphics, along with support for modern standards like PCIe 4.0 and fast memory. However, the...Read more

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au.pcmag.com
13/04/2022
Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 7 - Review 2022

The Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 7 is a premium 2-in-1 convertible lauded for its exceptional 14-inch OLED display, luxurious aluminum chassis, and innovative rotating soundbar hinge that delivers clear audio in all modes. Performance is driven by 12th Gen Intel "Alder Lake" processors, leading its class in productivity benchmarks, paired with a robust 15-hour battery life. Cons include a...Read more

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techspot.com
14/06/2022
AMD Ryzen 7 6800U and Intel Core i7-1260P Review

The TechSpot review comparing the AMD Ryzen 7 6800U and Intel Core i7-1260P highlights a trade-off between AMD's superior multi-threaded performance and Intel's strength in single-threaded tasks. AMD holds a roughly 9% lead in Cinebench and a 22% advantage in Handbrake, while the i7-1260P excels in applications like Photoshop and offers a significant 71% generational leap...Read more

N
notebookcheck.net
05/05/2022
Intel Alder Lake Core i7-1260P: The 12th Generation of Mobile CPUs in Review

The Intel Core i7-1260P, featured in the Notebookcheck review, introduces a 12-core, 16-thread hybrid architecture delivering exceptional single-core performance and strong multi-thread capabilities that challenge AMD's Ryzen 5000U series. While offering high-end processing power for laptops like the Lenovo Yoga 9i 14, the chip operates with a 28W base TDP that can spike to 64W,...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
18/11/2022
All our articles with intel core i7-1260p tag | LaptopMedia UK

The Intel Core i7-1260P is a 12-core, 16-thread processor based on the Alder Lake-P architecture, offering a 28W base TDP designed to balance performance and efficiency in thin-and-light laptops. It delivers a significant performance leap over previous generations, with strong multi-core capabilities and integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics (96EU) for capable casual gaming and media...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
18/11/2022
[Comparison] Intel Core i7-1250U vs Intel Core i7-1260P – Fast work for the Core i7-1260P

According to LaptopMedia, the Core i7-1260P delivers significantly higher performance than the i7-1250U due to 12 cores (4P + 8E) and a 28W base TDP, outperforming the 10-core (2P + 8E), 9W U-series chip by 41% in 3D rendering. The i7-1260P pros include superior multi-threaded speed and content creation capabilities, with the main con being higher heat and power consumption, whereas...Read more

C
computerbase.de
21/09/2022
Core i-1200P/U vs. Ryzen 6000HS/U Review: Three Intel CPUs vs. Three AMD Rivals

ComputerBase benchmarks show the Intel Core i7-1260P and i5-1255U leading in single-threaded performance and productivity, while the AMD Ryzen 7 6800U and 5 6650U excel in multi-threaded efficiency. Intel's Alder Lake architecture shows high power consumption, whereas AMD’s 6nm process delivers superior power efficiency and battery life. The Radeon 680M integrated graphics on the...Read more

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notebookcheck.com
04/05/2022
Intel Alder Lake Core i7-1260P Review: 12th Gen Mobile CPU Tested

The Notebookcheck review of the Intel Core i7-1260P, a 12th Gen Alder Lake P-series chip with a 28W base TDP, highlights its hybrid architecture featuring 4 performance cores (P-cores) and 8 efficient cores (E-cores) for a total of 16 threads. Tested in the Lenovo Yoga 9i, the processor delivers strong multi-core performance by utilizing aggressive power limits, reaching up to 64W...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
27/10/2022
AMD Ryzen 7 6800U vs. Intel Core i7-1260P Comparison

The LaptopMedia comparison between the AMD Ryzen 7 6800U and Intel Core i7-1260P highlights a close matchup for thin-and-light laptops, where AMD leads in multi-threaded tasks and 3D rendering (~9% faster in Cinebench R20), while Intel excels in 2D rendering and single-threaded, everyday productivity. A major pro for the Ryzen 7 is its 6nm efficiency and superior RDNA 2-based Radeon...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
18/11/2022
Intel Core i7-1250U vs. Intel Core i7-1260P Comparison

The LaptopMedia comparison between the Intel Core i7-1250U (9W U-series) and Core i7-1260P (28W P-series) highlights a trade-off between extreme portability and high performance, with the latter offering double the performance cores. The i7-1250U focuses on efficiency and thermal stability for thin devices, boasting excellent battery longevity, but is limited by having only 2...Read more

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T
tomsguide.fr
15/04/2022
Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3402) review: arguably Asus's best ultrabook

The Tom's Guide France review highlights the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3402) as a top-tier, portable ultrabook featuring a premium aluminum design and a vibrant 2.8K 90Hz OLED display with high color accuracy. Powered by a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P, it delivers strong performance with a 75Wh battery lasting 8–11 hours, along with versatile connectivity like dual Thunderbolt 4...Read more

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noticias3d.com
18/06/2026
ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED with Core i7-1260P: Technical Analysis and Performance

The Noticias3D review of the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3402) highlights a significant performance boost from the Intel Core i7-1260P processor, which features 12 cores for enhanced multitasking, alongside versatile power management through the MyASUS app. A key "pro" is the 2.8K 90Hz OLED display offering excellent contrast and color, paired with a durable, lightweight MIL-STD-810H...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
18/06/2026
LaptopMedia Italy - Specifications and Benchmark Tests

The Intel Core i7-1260P is a 12-core, 16-thread Alder Lake-P processor designed for thin-and-light laptops, featuring 4 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores that deliver strong multi-core performance for productivity. Integrated Intel Iris Xe G7 graphics (96 EU) offer capable performance for daily tasks and light gaming, such as Valorant at over 100 FPS. However, the processor...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
18/11/2022
All our articles tagged Intel Core i7-1260P

The Intel Core i7-1260P, based on the 10nm Alder Lake-P series, features a 12-core hybrid architecture that bridges the gap between thin-and-light and high-performance laptops. According to LaptopMedia, it provides significantly better multitasking and snappier Windows 11 performance compared to previous 11th Gen chips, with boost frequencies up to 4.7 GHz. The 96EU Iris Xe graphics...Read more

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hardware.info
13/11/2022
Lenovo Yoga Slim 9 vs. Slim 7 Pro X Review: Two Alder Lake Laptops from the Same Family - Processor Performance

Hardware.info compares the premium Lenovo Yoga Slim 9 and the performance-oriented Slim 7 Pro X, both featuring 12th-gen Intel Alder Lake processors. The Slim 9 targets luxury with a 3D glass lid and 4K OLED display, while the Slim 7 Pro X is positioned as a "procreator" machine focusing on sustained performance via robust cooling. The Slim 7 Pro X outperforms in intensive tasks,...Read more

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tweakers.net
22/10/2022
Samsung Galaxy Book2 with Intel Arc GPU - New Intel card doesn't scare Nvidia yet

The Tweakers review of the Samsung Galaxy Book2 (2022) evaluates the Intel Arc A350M GPU, finding it a capable entry-level option for thin laptops but not a current threat to Nvidia's mainstream dominance. While offering a premium, lightweight design and good AV1 encoding for creators, the Arc A350M suffers from inconsistent performance, driver issues, and difficulty running...Read more

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tweakers.net
15/08/2022
From four to fourteen cores: Upgrading our Framework laptop

Tweakers.net demonstrates the modularity of the Framework Laptop 13 by upgrading from an 11th Gen to a 12th Gen Intel Core i7-1260P processor, increasing core count from four to 14, notes. The straightforward, hour-long upgrade process proves that swapping the mainboard allows users to modernize their hardware without replacing the entire chassis. The review highlights the...Read more

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hardware.info
26/05/2022
Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro Review: 1.11kg Lightweight Alder Lake Machine Marks Samsung's Laptop Market Return

The Samsung Galaxy Book2 Pro (15.6-inch) is recognized as a remarkably portable machine, featuring an extremely light 1.11 kg chassis and thin, minimalist design. It offers strong performance with 12th Gen Intel Core P-series processors and boasts a vibrant FHD AMOLED display with excellent contrast. While providing versatile connectivity including Thunderbolt 4, the device suffers...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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