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Intel Core i7 7660U Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£110
  • PassMark benchmark result: 4029
  • N. of physical cores: 2
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.0 GHz

Intel Core i7 7660U review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

4.3

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%

4.3

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.3

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%

3.7

Performance

18.0%

4.5

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

3.7

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

7.6

Power & Thermal

4.0%

6.9

Platform

1.0%

7.6

Integrated Graphics

Poor
?

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

  • 3.0
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.3

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.2

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.6

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    1.6

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.0

    N. of physical cores

  • 1.5
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.7

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.0

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    1.6

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    1.6

    L3 cache

  • No image
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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £110

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 i7-7660U is a dual-core, four-thread mobile processor from the 7th Generation Kaby Lake family, featuring a base clock of 2.5 GHz and a max turbo frequency of 4.0 GHz. Built on an improved 14nm process, it includes 4MB of L3 cache and integrated Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 with 64MB of dedicated eDRAM, which acts as a fast cache to boost performance. Its main advantages include a low 15W TDP (configurable down to 9.5W) for excellent energy efficiency in ultrabooks like the Surface Pro, and relatively strong integrated graphics capable of light creative tasks and 4K output at 60Hz. However, its primary drawbacks are the limited core count by modern standards, which hinders heavy multitasking, and its official lack of support for Windows 11 on most devices.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 7660U

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

4.3
Intel Core i7 7660U has a technical score of 4.27 points, which is lower than that of 72.7% 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 7660U 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%

4.3

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

6.0
Intel Core i7 7660U has a quality-to-price ratio of 6 points, which is lower than 65.3% 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 7660U 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

FCBGA1356
Intel Core i7 7660U uses the FCBGA1356 CPU socket, which is older than that of 88.1% of processors and equal to that of 3% 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

N/A
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 7660U 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+

2
Intel Core i7 7660U has 2 CPU cores, which is fewer than 79.3% of processors and equal to 20.6% 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+

4
Intel Core i7 7660U offers 4 CPU threads, which is fewer than 67.3% of processors and equal to 26.6% 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

2
Intel Core i7 7660U offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
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

4.0 GHz
Intel Core i7 7660U reaches a boost clock of 4.0 GHz which is lower than that of 59.8% of processors and equal to that of 5% 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

2 x 2.5 GHz
Intel Core i7 7660U has a base clock of 2x2.5 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

14 nm
Intel Core i7 7660U uses a 14 nm process node, which is older than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 33.7% 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 14 nm
Intel Core i7 7660U is built on the Intel 14 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 55.2% of processors and equal to that of 29.3% 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

4 MB
Intel Core i7 7660U has an L3 cache of 4 MB which is smaller than that of 70.2% of processors and equal to that of 14.6% 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

0.5 MB
Intel Core i7 7660U has an L2 cache of 0.5 MB which is smaller than that of 84.8% of processors and equal to that of 15.2% 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

128 KB
Intel Core i7 7660U has an L1 cache of 128 KB which is smaller than that of 83.1% of processors and equal to that of 14.9% of processors.
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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

DDR3L/DDR4/LPDDR3
Intel Core i7 7660U supports DDR DDR3L/DDR4/LPDDR3, which is older than that of 74.3% of processors and equal to that of 3.3% 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

2,133 MHz
Intel Core i7 7660U supports memory speeds up to 2133 MHz, which is lower than that of 75.6% of processors and equal to 8.8% 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

DDR4-2133 MHz
Intel Core i7 7660U supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2133 MHz, which is lower than that of 75.9% of processors and equal to 5.3% 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

32 GB
Intel Core i7 7660U supports up to 32 GB of memory, which is less than 71.9% of processors and equal to 19.5% of processors.
Show more
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 7660U 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 Plus Graphics 640
Intel Core i7 7660U uses the Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640 integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 65.3% of processors and equal to that in 0.2% 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

48
Intel Core i7 7660U has 48 GPU execution units, which is more than 82.5% of processors and equal to 4.7% 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 7660U 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

H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i7 7660U supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is broader support than 76.2% of processors and equal to 0.7% of processors.
Show more
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

15 W
Intel Core i7 7660U has a TDP of 15 W which is lower than that of 77.7% of processors and equal to that of 16.1% 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

15 W
Intel Core i7 7660U has a base power of 15 W which is lower than that of 77.2% of processors and equal to that of 16.2% 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

25 W
Intel Core i7 7660U has a boost power of 25 W which is lower than that of 83.1% of processors and equal to that of 9.2% 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 7660U 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 7660U supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
cTDP: 25 W
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Intel Core i7 7660U vs the average processor

  • 2.71x faster Blender rendering
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (899 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the BMW27 scene, used to show how quickly the processor can finish a heavy 3D rendering task.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >290

    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (899 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.898.96 vs 331.88
  • 66.7% lower base power
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    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

    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.15 W vs 45 W
  • 60.9% lower boost power
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower boost power draw than the average processor (25 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
    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

    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower boost power draw than the average processor (25 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.25 W vs 64 W
  • 66.7% lower TDP
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower TDP than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    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

    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower TDP than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.15 W vs 45 W
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 7660U has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 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 7660U has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • 2x more GPU execution units
    Intel Core i7 7660U has more GPU execution units than the average processor (48 vs 24). The average processor has 24 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

    Intel Core i7 7660U has more GPU execution units than the average processor (48 vs 24). The average processor has 24 GPU execution units.48 vs 24
  • 2.71x faster Blender rendering
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (899 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 7660U has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 2x more GPU execution units
    Intel Core i7 7660U has more GPU execution units than the average processor (48 vs 24). The average processor has 24 GPU execution units.
  • 66.7% lower base power
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower base power draw than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 60.9% lower boost power
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower boost power draw than the average processor (25 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 66.7% lower TDP
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower TDP than the average processor (15 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.

Total
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i7 7660U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • Older CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 7660U uses an older CPU socket than the average processor (FCBGA1,356 vs FP2).
  • 3 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i7 7660U has an older release date than the average processor (2,017 vs 2,020).
    January 2017
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 7660U does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 4 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 7660U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 61.7% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (4,029 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 21.9% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,149 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 52.6% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,272 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    Intel Core i7 7660U has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 14.6% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,121 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 7% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 50% lower bus transfer rate
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
  • 50% lower bus speed
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower bus speed than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
  • 80% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (0.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 66.7% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (128 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 7660U has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 50% smaller L3 cache
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower L3 cache than the average processor (4 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 64.6% fewer transistors
    Intel Core i7 7660U has fewer transistors than the average processor (1.8 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • 25.5% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (34.1 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 4 fewer PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i7 7660U has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (12 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 27.3% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,133 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 50% less memory capacity
    Intel Core i7 7660U has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (32 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i7 7660U supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3L/DDR4/LPDDR3 vs DDR4).
  • Limited PCIe bifurcation
    Intel Core i7 7660U supports less flexible PCIe bifurcation than the average processor (x4, x2/x2, x2/x1/x1 vs x16, x8/x8).
  • 4 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 7660U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 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 7660U has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (2 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.2 vs 6
  • 61.7% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (4,029 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (4,029 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.4,029 vs 10,532.5
  • 21.9% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,149 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,149 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.1,149 vs 1,471
  • 80% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (0.5 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 7660U has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (0.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.0.5 MB vs 2.5 MB
  • 52.6% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,272 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 7660U has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,272 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.2,272 vs 4,793
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i7 7660U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES 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 7660U supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 7660U has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    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

    Intel Core i7 7660U has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
  • 4 fewer CPU threads
    Intel Core i7 7660U has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 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 7660U has fewer CPU threads than the average processor (4 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.4 vs 8
Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 7660U and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i7 7660U?

  • Integrated Iris Plus Graphics 640 offers double the execution units compared to standard i5 models, providing better performance for creative tasks like Photoshop and Lightroom
  • Strong single-core performance with a turbo clock speed of up to 4.0 GHz, which is high for its generation
  • Includes 64 MB of eDRAM (L4 cache) which boosts both CPU and graphics performance
  • Efficient power consumption with a 15W TDP, making it suitable for ultra-thin laptops like the Surface Pro
  • Supports modern codecs like H.265/HEVC and VP9 for smoother 4K video playback

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 7660U?

  • Prone to thermal throttling under prolonged heavy loads, leading to performance drops as temperatures rise
  • Dual-core architecture (2 cores/4 threads) struggles with modern multitasking compared to newer quad-core 8th Gen processors
  • Generates more heat and requires active fan cooling, which can be noisy compared to fanless i5 alternatives in the same devices
  • Limited gaming capability; while better than standard integrated chips, it still cannot handle modern AAA games at high settings
  • Vulnerable to Spectre and Meltdown security flaws, which required software patches that can impact overall speed on older hardware

Expert reviews

P
pcmag.com
15/06/2017
Microsoft Surface Pro Review | PCMag

The Microsoft Surface Pro (11th Edition, 2024) shifts to Qualcomm’s Snapdragon X Elite/Plus processors, offering a major boost in performance and efficiency alongside a new, highly praised OLED display. The 2-in-1 maintains its premium, lightweight design and introduces the versatile Surface Pro Flex Keyboard with Wi-Fi 7 capabilities. However, key accessories remain sold...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
15/06/2017
Microsoft Surface Pro Review - PCMag UK

The Microsoft Surface Pro is lauded as a premier Windows 2-in-1, featuring powerful Intel Core i7 performance with Iris Plus graphics suitable for GPU-accelerated tasks and a high-resolution, 165-degree reclining screen. However, the device is expensive, with essential accessories like the Type Cover and Surface Pen sold separately, and it lacks modern USB-C or Thunderbolt 3...Read more

B
browser.geekbench.com
30/03/2026
Intel Core i7-7660U Benchmarks - Geekbench Browser

The Intel Core i7-7660U is a 2017 dual-core Kaby Lake mobile processor, featuring a 2.5–4.0 GHz boost clock and Iris Plus Graphics 640 with 64 MB eDRAM. While efficient for daily tasks with a 15W TDP, the processor is limited by its age, scoring approximately 1151 single-core and 2272 multi-core on Geekbench 6. Key limitations include poor performance in modern heavy multi-threaded...Read more

C
chip.de
20/11/2018
Microsoft Surface Laptop Review: An Ultrabook for Minimalists?", "Microsoft's Surface Laptop Tested: The Ultrabook for Minimalists?

The Microsoft Surface Laptop is a premium, high-quality ultrabook featuring an elegant aluminum chassis and a unique Alcantara fabric keyboard deck. Its 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio is highly praised for productivity and vibrant color, offering a comfortable, high-end typing experience. While offering solid battery life for daily tasks, the device is...Read more

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N
notebookcheck.com
29/12/2017
Microsoft Surface Laptop i7 - Notebookcheck.net External Reviews

The Microsoft Surface Laptop with Intel Core i7 features a premium aluminum chassis and an Alcantara-covered keyboard, highlighted by a high-quality 13.5-inch 3:2 PixelSense display, as noted by Notebookcheck. While the i7-7660U processor and Iris Plus Graphics 640 offer a performance boost, the unit can experience thermal throttling under heavy loads, but it delivers solid battery...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
notebookcheck.com
12/12/2017
Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7 (Core i7-7660U) Reviews

The Microsoft Surface Pro (2017) i7 is a refined 2-in-1, offering improved productivity performance with its Core i7-7660U processor, Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640, and a flexible, 165-degree hinge. Its pros include a high-resolution 12.3-inch PixelSense display, excellent build quality with a lightweight magnesium chassis, and significantly improved battery life, which nearly...Read more

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N
notebookcheck.com
25/10/2017
Microsoft Surface Laptop (i7-7660U) Review

The Microsoft Surface Laptop with Intel Core i7-7660U is a premium Ultrabook featuring a high-quality aluminum design and an Alcantara-covered keyboard, according to a Notebookcheck review. The 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen is highly rated for its 3:2 aspect ratio and color accuracy. Performance is boosted by Intel Iris Plus Graphics 640, allowing for better handling of demanding...Read more

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D
dday.it
02/08/2017
Microsoft Surface Pro 2017 Review: Power is Nothing Without Control

The DDay.it review describes the 2017 Microsoft Surface Pro as a refined, incremental update that solidifies its position as the benchmark for 2-in-1 devices, featuring improved build quality with softer edges and a 165-degree "Studio Mode" hinge. Performance is boosted by 7th-gen Intel processors and a silent, fanless design for Core m3/i5 models, accompanied by significantly...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
N/A
Microsoft Surface Laptop i7-7660U Review - Tweakers

The first-generation Microsoft Surface Laptop with Intel Core i7-7660U is lauded for its premium design, featuring an Alcantara palm rest, a 13.5-inch 3:2 PixelSense display, and impressive, quiet performance driven by Intel Iris Plus 640 graphics. While praised for its portability and battery life, the device is significantly hindered by a limited port selection lacking...Read more

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T
techzine.nl
21/08/2017
Microsoft Surface Laptop - a real gem of a laptop

Techzine.nl reviews the original Microsoft Surface Laptop, defining it as a premium, non-hybrid clamshell device featuring exceptional build quality and a distinct Alcantara-covered keyboard deck. The 13.5-inch PixelSense touchscreen with a 3:2 aspect ratio is lauded as a key advantage for productivity, paired with a lightweight, portable design. The device, which shipped with...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
notebookcheck.nl
28/10/2017
Short review of the Microsoft Surface Laptop (i7-7660U)

The Microsoft Surface Laptop with Intel Core i7-7660U is a premium, well-engineered device featuring exceptional build quality, an Alcantara-covered keyboard, and a high-resolution 13.5-inch PixelSense display. While the i7 processor and Iris Plus Graphics 640 offer superior performance, the unit runs warmer and requires a cooling fan compared to the i5 model. Major drawbacks...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

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