Intel Core i7-4710HQ
Intel Core i7-4710HQ in 2025: Is it Worth Considering an Outdated Processor?
Analysis of Architecture, Performance, and Relevance for Modern Tasks
Introduction
The Intel Core i7-4710HQ processor, released in 2014, was once considered a top-tier solution for mid- to high-end laptops. Even after 11 years, it can still be found in new budget devices (especially in developing markets) or refurbished models. But how relevant is it in 2025? Let’s explore who might find this chip useful and what compromises need to be accepted.
Architecture and Process Technology: The Haswell Legacy
Codename and Technology
The processor belongs to the Haswell family (codename Crystalwell) and is manufactured using a 22nm process technology. For its time, this was cutting-edge, but by 2025, it is hopelessly outdated—modern Intel and AMD chips utilize 5–7nm, while Apple has transitioned to 3nm.
Cores, Threads, and Cache
- 4 Cores / 8 Threads thanks to Hyper-Threading.
- Base frequency: 2.5 GHz, turbo mode up to 3.5 GHz (for a single core).
- L3 Cache: 6 MB— modest even by 2010s standards, but sufficient for basic multitasking.
Integrated Graphics Intel HD 4600
- 20 Execution Units (EUs).
- Frequency: 400–1200 MHz.
- Supports DirectX 11.1, OpenGL 4.3.
- In 2025, this is insufficient: even simple games like Fortnite or Genshin Impact at low settings will struggle (10–15 FPS).
Power Consumption and TDP: The Price of Performance
TDP of 47W — nearly double that of modern mobile processors (for instance, the Intel Core i5-1240P has a TDP of 28W). This figure means:
- A strong cooling system is required (noisy fans, bulky heatsinks).
- Laptops with this CPU are usually thicker than 20mm and weigh over 2 kg.
- Under load (e.g., video rendering), temperatures can reach 90–95°C, causing throttling.
Energy Efficiency
Compared to chips on a 10nm process or less (e.g., AMD Ryzen 5 7530U), the i7-4710HQ falls behind in the performance-to-watt ratio. This is critical for battery life (see below).
Performance in 2025: Where Is It Adequate?
Office Tasks
- Working with documents (Word, Excel), web browsing (10–15 tabs), Zoom conferences— the processor handles them without delays.
- Example: A configuration with 8GB RAM and an SSD will deliver a comfortable speed, comparable to budget laptops of 2025.
Multimedia
- Video conversion to 1080p (HandBrake): ~40–50% slower than the Ryzen 5 5500U.
- Editing photos in Lightroom: loading RAW files will take 20–30% longer.
Gaming
- Intel HD 4600: Suitable only for older titles (e.g., CS:GO at low settings—30–40 FPS).
- With discrete graphics equivalent to NVIDIA GTX 1650 (if available in the laptop): games from 2020-2022 at medium settings (e.g., Cyberpunk 2077—25–35 FPS).
Turbo Boost Mode
Under short bursts of load (up to 30 seconds), the frequency can rise to 3.5 GHz, but due to heating, sustained performance drops to 2.8–3.0 GHz.
Use Cases: Who Could Benefit from the i7-4710HQ in 2025?
1. Budget Office Laptops
- Price of new devices: $300–450 (e.g., Lenovo V15 or HP 250 models).
- For working with documents, email, and watching YouTube.
2. Secondary Market and Refurbished Devices
- Refurbished laptops like Dell Latitude or HP EliteBook are priced at $200–300.
3. Casual Gamers
- Only if equipped with discrete graphics (e.g., GTX 1050 Ti).
Who it is not suitable for:
- Designers, video editors.
- Fans of modern games.
Battery Life: How Long Will It Last?
- A laptop with an i7-4710HQ and a 50Wh battery lasts 3–4 hours during web surfing.
- Under load (gaming, rendering)—less than 1.5 hours.
Power-Saving Technologies:
- Intel SpeedStep (dynamic frequency scaling).
- C-States (shutting down unused cores).
But even these do not mitigate the high TDP.
Advice: Choose models with at least a 60Wh battery and fast-charging features.
Comparison with Competitors
1. AMD Ryzen 5 5500U (2021):
- 6 Cores / 12 Threads, 7nm, TDP 15W.
- Performance in Geekbench 6: Single 1500, Multi 5800.
- Found in new laptops priced at $400–600.
2. Apple M1 (2020):
- 8 Cores, 5nm, TDP 10W.
- Geekbench 6: Single 2300, Multi 8300.
- MacBook Air M1 (2025) priced at $799.
3. Intel Core i3-1215U (2022):
- 6 Cores / 8 Threads, 10nm, TDP 15W.
- Geekbench 6: Single 1800, Multi 4500.
Conclusion: The i7-4710HQ lags behind even budget modern chips by 30–70%.
Pros and Cons
Strengths:
- Low cost of laptops ($300–450).
- Adequate for basic tasks (office work, YouTube).
- Support for Windows 10/11 (with limitations).
Weaknesses:
- High power consumption.
- Weak integrated graphics.
- No support for modern standards: USB 3.2 Gen 2, Thunderbolt 4, Wi-Fi 6E.
Recommendations for Choosing a Laptop
1. Type of Device:
- Workhorse: Dell Latitude 3540 (new — $399).
- Budget Gaming: ASUS TUF with GTX 1650 ($550).
2. Things to Look For:
- Cooling: At least two fans.
- RAM: 8GB minimum, 16GB is better.
- Storage: Only SSD (256GB and above).
Final Verdict
The Intel Core i7-4710HQ in 2025 is a choice for those looking for the cheapest new laptop for simple tasks. It is a compromise between price and performance. If your budget allows an extra $200–300, it's better to opt for a device with a Ryzen 5 or Core i3 from the 12th generation—they will last longer and not disappoint in the future.
Who It’s Suitable For:
- Budget-conscious students.
- Office workers not using "heavy" applications.
- Users needing a second laptop for simple tasks.
Key Benefit: Saving money now at the expense of future limitations.