Intel Core i7 8705G Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£470
  • Avg. price in US: ~$500
  • PassMark benchmark result: 7633
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.1 GHz

Intel Core i7 8705G review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

4.0

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%

4.0

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Poor
4.0

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%

3.2

Performance

18.0%

4.9

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

3.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.2

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.0

Platform

1.0%

7.8

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

  • 3.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.4

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.6

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.9

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 2.3
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    2.4

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    2.8

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £470

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 i7-8705G is a unique 8th Gen Kaby Lake-G mobile processor featuring a 4-core, 8-thread architecture with a base clock of 3.1 GHz and a turbo boost up to 4.1 GHz. A standout characteristic is its multi-chip module design that integrates a discrete-class AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL GPU with 4GB of dedicated HBM2 memory, all within a 65W TDP. Main pros include its space-saving single-chip footprint that enables slim laptop designs to achieve graphics performance comparable to a GTX 1050, alongside 8MB of L3 cache and support for up to 64GB of DDR4-2400 RAM. However, notable cons include its high power consumption and heat generation for its performance class, limited CPU core count compared to newer 6-core alternatives, and occasional software complexities arising from the hybrid Intel-AMD driver ecosystem.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 8705G

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

4.0
Intel Core i7 8705G has a technical score of 4 points, which is lower than that of 81% 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 8705G 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%

4.0

Overall score

40.0%

8.0

Price

5.2
Intel Core i7 8705G has a quality-to-price ratio of 5.2 points, which is lower than 93.9% 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 8705G 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.
laptop
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

FCBGA2270
Intel Core i7 8705G uses the FCBGA2270 CPU socket, which is older than that of 65% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% 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

?
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 8705G 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+

4
Intel Core i7 8705G has 4 CPU cores, which is fewer than 50.7% of processors and equal to 28.5% 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+

8
Intel Core i7 8705G offers 8 CPU threads, which is more than 35.3% of processors and equal to 19% 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 8705G 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

4.1 GHz
Intel Core i7 8705G reaches a boost clock of 4.1 GHz which is lower than that of 56.2% of processors and equal to that of 2.9% 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 3.1 GHz
Intel Core i7 8705G has a base clock of 4x3.1 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 8705G 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 8705G 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

8 MB
Intel Core i7 8705G has an L3 cache of 8 MB which is larger than that of 39.7% of processors and equal to that of 11.8% 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

1 MB
Intel Core i7 8705G has an L2 cache of 1 MB which is smaller than that of 67.1% of processors and equal to that of 17.6% 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

256 KB
Intel Core i7 8705G has an L1 cache of 256 KB which is smaller than that of 59.4% of processors and equal to that of 18.5% 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

DDR4
Intel Core i7 8705G supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% 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

2,400 MHz
Intel Core i7 8705G supports memory speeds up to 2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 63.2% of processors and equal to 12.4% 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

DDR4-2400 MHz
Intel Core i7 8705G supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 63.4% of processors and equal to 10.6% 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 8705G supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% 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 8705G 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 HD Graphics 630
Intel Core i7 8705G uses the Intel HD Graphics 630 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 73.9% 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

24
Intel Core i7 8705G has 24 GPU execution units, which is more than 49.2% of processors and equal to 21.6% 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

?
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), JPEG (HW decode/encode)
Intel Core i7 8705G supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode/encode) media codecs, which is broader support than 72.1% of processors and equal to 2.9% 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

65 W
Intel Core i7 8705G has a TDP of 65 W which is higher than that of 70% 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

65 W
Intel Core i7 8705G has a base power of 65 W which is higher than that of 70.3% of processors and equal to that of 16.4% 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

?
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 8705G 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 8705G supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i7 8705G vs the average processor

  • 29.8% smaller die size
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower die size than the average processor (125 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 8705G has a lower die size than the average processor (125 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².125 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 3 more supported displays
    Intel Core i7 8705G has more supported displays than the average processor (6 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.
    What it is: The maximum number of displays the processor can drive at once.
    When it matters: When you plan a multi-monitor setup with integrated graphics.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: 4

    Intel Core i7 8705G has more supported displays than the average processor (6 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.6 vs 3
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 8705G 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 8705G 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
  • 29.8% smaller die size
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower die size than the average processor (125 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 8705G 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.
  • 3 more supported displays
    Intel Core i7 8705G has more supported displays than the average processor (6 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 8705G does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 2 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i7 8705G has an older release date than the average processor (2,018 vs 2,020).
    January 2018
  • 48.3% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,439 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 8705G has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 14.5% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (414 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 11.6% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,194 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 12.9% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,281 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 4.7% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4.1 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 27.5% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (7,633 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 16.5% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (4,003 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 8705G 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.
  • 33.3% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 8 fewer PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i7 8705G has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (8 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 18.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (37.5 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 18.2% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • Inferior integrated GPU
    Intel Core i7 8705G uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 630 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 48.3% weaker multi-core performance
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,439 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 score that reflects how well the processor handles long, heavy rendering workloads across many cores.
    When it matters: When you care about sustained multi-core performance in rendering, compiling, heavy creation work, or productivity workloads that use many threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4700

    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,439 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.1,439 vs 2,783
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 8705G has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 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 8705G has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 8705G 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 8705G 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
  • 8 fewer PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i7 8705G has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (8 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
    What it is: The number of PCIe lanes provided directly by the processor.
    When it matters: When you connect fast GPUs, SSDs, or expansion cards.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=20

    Intel Core i7 8705G has fewer PCIe lanes than the average processor (8 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.8 vs 16
  • 14.5% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (414 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about lighter workloads, interface responsiveness, or software that still depends heavily on one fast core.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >600

    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (414 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.414 vs 484
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 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 8705G has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.65 W vs 45 W
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 8705G 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.
    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 8705G 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.0.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 8705G has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1 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 8705G has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.1 MB vs 2.5 MB

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 8705G and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i7 8705G?

  • Space-saving multi-chip design allows for thinner and lighter laptop form factors without sacrificing much power.
  • GPU performance is highly competitive for its class, often outperforming discrete NVIDIA GeForce MX150 and GTX 1050 mobile setups.
  • Integrated 4GB of HBM2 memory provides high bandwidth for graphics-intensive tasks.
  • Excellent for 4K video editing and content creation in portable devices like the Dell XPS 15 2-in-1.
  • Efficient power management that can switch to Intel HD 630 graphics to save battery when the AMD GPU is not needed.

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 8705G?

  • Limited to 4 physical cores, which falls significantly behind 6-core 8th Gen 'H-series' processors (like the i7-8750H) in multi-threaded workloads.
  • Thermal throttling can be an issue in slim chassis, with clock speeds sometimes dropping under sustained heavy loads.
  • Drivers can be a point of frustration, as updates often rely on both Intel and AMD coordination, which has historically been slow.
  • Despite the AMD partnership, it cannot compete with higher-end gaming laptops equipped with GTX 1060 or better GPUs.
  • Limited 'future-proofing' compared to newer 6-core or 8-core alternatives for modern gaming and rendering.

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
Updated Daily

The Intel Core i7-8705G (Kaby Lake G) is a specialized 2018 mobile processor integrating a 4-core CPU with custom Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, achieving a CPU Mark score of approximately 9,877. A major pro is its powerful integrated GPU performance, which rivals dedicated NVIDIA GTX 1050 graphics within compact devices, though a significant con is its high 65W TDP that demands...Read more

T
techspot.com
03/07/2018

The TechSpot review of the Intel Core i7-8705G (Kaby Lake-G) highlights a unique, compact collaboration combining a quad-core Intel CPU with a custom AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL GPU, utilizing Intel's EMIB technology to link graphics with 4GB of HBM2 memory. A key pro is the mid-range gaming performance that generally outpaces a GTX 1050, allowing for powerful yet thin, space-efficient,...Read more

P
pcworld.com
14/06/2018

The PCWorld review highlights the Intel Core i7-8705G as an innovative hybrid chip merging a quad-core Intel CPU with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, offering discrete-class performance in a compact form factor. Key advantages include impressive thermal management under heavy, combined workloads and space-saving integration of HBM2 memory, which enables high-end performance in...Read more

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browser.geekbench.com
Ongoing

The Intel Core i7-8705G (Kaby Lake-G) is a unique 2018 quad-core processor featuring integrated Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics and 4GB of HBM2 memory, achieving Geekbench 6 scores of roughly 1,286 single-core and 4,003 multi-core. Its primary advantage is remarkable space efficiency, enabling entry-level gaming performance in thin, portable laptops like the Dell XPS 15 2-in-1, with...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
25/06/2018

LaptopMedia compares the 8th Gen Intel Core i7-8705G (65W TDP) and the i7-8550U (15W TDP), highlighting a major performance difference despite both having 4 cores and 8 threads. The i7-8705G, paired with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, serves as a high-performance option, while the i7-8550U uses integrated Intel UHD 620 for efficiency. In benchmark testing, the i7-8705G...Read more

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pcworld.com
17/05/2018

The 2018 HP Spectre x360 15, featuring Intel’s Kaby Lake-G processor (Core i7-8705G with AMD Radeon RX Vega M graphics), acts as a high-performance 2-in-1 that bridges the gap between convertibles and workstations. This configuration provides superior processing power, roughly 50% faster than its Kaby Lake-R sibling in specific tasks, enabling strong, workstation-like performance in...Read more

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laptopmag.com
14/05/2018

The HP Spectre x360 15 (2018) is a premium 2-in-1 featuring a unique Intel Core i7-8705G processor with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, offering strong performance for creative professionals and light gaming. While highlighting a vibrant 4K display and a comfortable keyboard with a numeric keypad, the review notes disappointing battery life and under-chassis heat during heavy...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
25/06/2026

According to LaptopMedia, the Intel Core i7-8705G (65W TDP) and i7-8550U (15W TDP) represent distinct performance and efficiency tiers within the 8th-generation lineup. Benchmarks show the high-power i7-8705G holds a roughly 24% advantage in 3D rendering (Cinebench 15) and 7% in Photoshop over the i7-8550U, largely due to its superior AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics. Pros for the...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
27/06/2026

The LaptopMedia review compares the 65W Intel Core i7-8705G (Kaby Lake G) with Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics against the 15W ultra-low-voltage i7-8650U. The i7-8705G offers superior multi-threaded and 3D rendering performance (approx. 20% faster in Cinebench 15) but demands higher power, whereas the i7-8650U excels in efficiency and productivity, slightly outperforming in Photoshop...Read more

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computerbase.de
24/02/2024

The Intel Core i7-8705G features a unique "Kaby Lake-G" design, pairing a 4-core CPU with AMD Vega M GL graphics and 4GB of HBM2 memory to provide gaming-capable performance in thin-and-light laptops. Pros include high efficiency and a space-saving design that allows for better performance than entry-level alternatives like the GeForce MX150. Cons include significant issues with...Read more

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notebooks-und-mobiles.de
27/08/2018

The Intel Core i7-8705G features a unique, space-saving design integrating a Kaby Lake CPU, Radeon RX Vega M GL GPU, and 4 GB of HBM2 memory on one package, enabling high-performance, thin 2-in-1 laptops. Performance-wise, it outperforms older quad-core chips like the i7-7700HQ and offers graphics capable of handling 1080p gaming, positioning it between the GTX 1050 and 1050 Ti....Read more

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leclaireur.fnac.com
04/04/2019

The Dell XPS 15 9575 is a premium 2-in-1 convertible blending high-end, 360-degree machined-aluminum design with strong performance for creative professionals. Pros include the vivid, near-borderless 4K "InfinityEdge" display and capable hybrid AMD Radeon RX Vega M graphics. A notable con is the awkward, low-placed webcam, which provides unflattering angles. Internally, the machine...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
12/11/2018

Tom’s Hardware (FR) compares the Dell XPS 15 9570 (Intel/NVIDIA) and the 9575 2-in-1 (Intel/AMD Vega), highlighting two distinct approaches to high-end mobile computing. The 9570 follows a traditional performance path, while the 9575 utilizes "Kaby Lake-G" technology to integrate CPU and AMD graphics, featuring a thinner, 360-degree hinge design. Tom’ The XPS 15 9570 excels with...Read more

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noticias3d.com
19/01/2018

The Intel Core i7-8705G with Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics combines a "Kaby Lake" CPU and "Vega" GPU on a single module, utilizing HBM2 memory to achieve superior gaming performance and efficient cooling compared to traditional laptop configurations. Performance testing reveals the chip offers solid 1080p gaming and rendering capabilities that significantly outperform standard...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
28/06/2018

The Intel Core i7-8705G outperforms the i7-7700HQ, featuring a unique Kaby Lake G design with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, superior clock speeds (3.10-4.10 GHz), and a larger cache, but at the cost of a higher 65W TDP. Benchmarks show the i7-8705G is up to 9% faster in 3D rendering and 5% faster in Photoshop compared to the older i7-7700HQ, which is limited by 6MB cache and...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
27/06/2018

LaptopMedia compares the 65W Intel Core i7-8705G (Kaby Lake G) with the 15W i7-8650U (Kaby Lake Refresh), noting both are 4-core/8-thread, but the i7-8705G offers higher frequencies and superior integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics. Benchmark results indicate the i7-8705G holds a 20% advantage in multi-threaded 3D rendering, while the lower-power i7-8650U surprisingly leads...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
25/06/2018

The Intel Core i7-8705G (65W, 3.10 GHz) offers significantly higher performance and superior AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics compared to the efficiency-focused i7-8550U (15W, 1.80 GHz). Benchmark tests show the i7-8705G is roughly 24% faster in rendering and 7% faster in Photoshop, making it better for professional workloads. While the i7-8705G wins on power, its high heat...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
19/06/2018

The Intel Core i7-8705G features a unique, space-saving design that integrates a Kaby Lake G CPU with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics and 4GB of HBM2 memory, aiming to deliver discrete-level performance for thin laptops. While CPU performance is comparable to an i7-7700HQ, the integrated Vega M GL GPU outperforms entry-level cards like the GTX 1050, handling demanding games well....Read more

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gamesource.it
06/06/2019

The Intel NUC 8i7HNK "Hades Canyon" is a compact, 1.2-liter mini PC featuring an Intel Core i7-8705G processor with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, offering 65W TDP efficiency. The system is praised for its immense connectivity—including dual Thunderbolt 3 ports and front-facing USBs—and strong 1080p gaming performance. Pros include quiet operation, dual M.2 slots, and excellent...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
22/06/2018

The Intel Core i7-8750H dominates in raw computing, outperforming the i7-8705G in benchmarks due to its 6-core/12-thread Coffee Lake-H architecture, making it ideal for rendering and heavy productivity. Conversely, the i7-8705G (Kaby Lake G) features a 4-core/8-thread design, providing lower CPU performance but utilizing an integrated AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL for superior, compact...Read more

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notebookcheck.nl
27/08/2018

The 2018 HP Spectre x360 15, featuring an Intel Core i7-8705G and Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, serves as a high-performance 2-in-1, blending premium build quality with capable gaming and creative power. While praised for its design and vibrant 4K display, the device is considered heavy for tablet use. Notable drawbacks include limited battery life, potential thermal throttling...Read more

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notebookcheck.nl
10/05/2018

The Dell XPS 15 9575 2-in-1 is a premium, thin-and-light convertible featuring a robust CNC aluminum chassis and the innovative Intel Core i7-8705G processor with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, offering performance comparable to a dedicated GTX 1050. The 4K UHD InfinityEdge display delivers excellent brightness (400+ nits) and color accuracy, ideal for creative work, while...Read more

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tweakers.net
10/01/2018

The Dell XPS 15 2-in-1 (9575) features a unique Intel "Kaby Lake-G" processor with AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, providing 1080p gaming performance in a 16mm-thin, 360-degree convertible design. The device boasts a premium CNC aluminum build, a 4K InfinityEdge display with high color accuracy, and, notably, is a "design marvel". However, it compromises on ergonomics with a...Read more

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tweakers.net
28/11/2018

The Intel NUC Kit NUC8i7HNK (Hades Canyon) is lauded in a Tweakers review as a highly capable, compact workstation featuring a unique Core i7-8705G processor with integrated Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, which delivers solid 1080p gaming performance. The unit is noted for superior, quieter cooling compared to previous generations, utilizing dual fans, alongside excellent...Read more

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tweakers.net
15/01/2018

The 2018 HP Spectre x360 15, featuring the Intel Core i7-8705G with Radeon RX Vega M GL graphics, offers performance comparable to a dedicated GTX 1050 within a premium "gem-cut" CNC-machined aluminum chassis. Key pros include the stunning 4K touch display, strong creative/gaming performance for a 2-in-1, and robust port selection including Thunderbolt 3. Significant cons stem from...Read more

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laptopmedia.com
04/06/2018

LaptopMedia’s CPU rankings, as of April 2026, highlight a market shift where the Apple M4 series disrupts the premium segment, with the M4 Pro and M3 Max outperforming traditional leaders like the Intel Core i9-13900HX and AMD Ryzen 9 5900HX in benchmarks. While Intel maintains high-end dominance, Apple's ARM-based architecture is noted for superior performance in specific tasks,...Read more

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