Benchmark Showdown: Intel Core i7 4750HQ vs Intel Core i9 10900X – Which One’s The Real Winner?

Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of options. Today, we’ll delve into a head-to-head comparison between two popular processors: the Intel Core i7 4750HQ and the Intel Core i9 10900X. While these processors belong to different generations and target diverse applications, understanding their strengths and weaknesses is crucial for making an informed decision.

Understanding the Competitors

The Intel Core i7 4750HQ is a quad-core processor released in 2014, belonging to the Haswell generation. It features a base clock speed of 2.0 GHz and can boost up to 3.4 GHz. Its integrated graphics are the Intel HD Graphics 4600, offering decent performance for basic tasks. The 4750HQ has a TDP of 47W, making it suitable for laptops and other mobile devices.
On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 10900X is a high-end desktop processor released in 2019, belonging to the Cascade Lake-X series. It boasts 10 cores and 20 threads, with a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.7 GHz. The 10900X is designed for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, and content creation, offering exceptional multi-core performance. It has a significantly higher TDP of 165W, requiring a robust cooling solution.

Performance Comparison: A Detailed Breakdown

The Intel Core i7 4750HQ and the Intel Core i9 10900X are vastly different processors, designed for distinct purposes. While the 4750HQ excels in energy efficiency and portability, the 10900X reigns supreme in raw power and multi-core performance.
Gaming Performance:
The Intel Core i9 10900X outperforms the Intel Core i7 4750HQ in gaming, especially in demanding titles that utilize multiple cores. The 10900X’s higher clock speeds and significantly more cores allow it to handle complex game physics and graphics rendering with ease. However, for older games that are less CPU-intensive, the 4750HQ can still deliver a smooth gaming experience.
Content Creation and Multitasking:
The Intel Core i9 10900X is a powerhouse for content creators and professionals, offering exceptional performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and other demanding software. Its 10 cores and 20 threads enable it to handle complex tasks with remarkable speed and efficiency. The 4750HQ, while capable of handling basic video editing and multitasking, struggles to keep up with the demanding workloads of professional content creators.
Power Consumption and Thermal Performance:
The Intel Core i7 4750HQ is significantly more power-efficient than the Intel Core i9 10900X. Its lower TDP and optimized architecture allow it to operate with less power consumption, making it ideal for laptops and other mobile devices. The 10900X, on the other hand, requires a powerful cooling solution to handle its high TDP and prevent overheating.

Key Features and Considerations

Integrated Graphics:
The Intel Core i7 4750HQ features the Intel HD Graphics 4600, providing basic graphics capabilities for casual gaming and multimedia playback. The Intel Core i9 10900X does not have integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated graphics card for visual output.
Memory Support:
The Intel Core i7 4750HQ supports up to 16GB of DDR3 memory, while the Intel Core i9 10900X supports up to 256GB of DDR4 memory. The higher memory capacity and speed of the 10900X allow for faster data access and improved performance in demanding applications.
Price and Availability:
The Intel Core i7 4750HQ is a much more affordable option compared to the Intel Core i9 10900X. The 4750HQ can be found for a fraction of the price of the 10900X, making it a budget-friendly choice for casual users and students.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Processor

The choice between the Intel Core i7 4750HQ and the Intel Core i9 10900X ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. If you prioritize portability, energy efficiency, and affordability, the Intel Core i7 4750HQ is a solid choice for everyday tasks and light gaming. However, if you require exceptional performance for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and high-end gaming, the Intel Core i9 10900X is the better option, offering unmatched processing power and multi-core capabilities.

The Final Thoughts: A Look Beyond the Numbers

The comparison between the Intel Core i7 4750HQ and the Intel Core i9 10900X highlights the evolution of CPU technology and the diverse needs of modern users. While the 4750HQ may seem outdated compared to the 10900X, it still serves a valuable purpose in the realm of mobile computing and budget-conscious users. The 10900X, on the other hand, represents the pinnacle of desktop processing power, catering to demanding professionals and enthusiasts. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs, budget, and the tasks you intend to perform.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I upgrade my Intel Core i7 4750HQ to an Intel Core i9 10900X?
No, you cannot directly upgrade your CPU. The two processors have different sockets and are incompatible with each other. You would need to replace your entire motherboard and possibly other components to make the upgrade.
2. Is the Intel Core i7 4750HQ still a good option for light gaming?
Yes, the Intel Core i7 4750HQ can still deliver a smooth gaming experience for older and less demanding titles. However, for modern games with higher system requirements, you might experience performance limitations.
3. What are the recommended cooling solutions for the Intel Core i9 10900X?
The Intel Core i9 10900X requires a robust cooling solution to manage its high TDP. An air cooler with a large heatsink and multiple fans is recommended. Alternatively, you can opt for a liquid cooler for even better thermal performance.
4. Is the Intel Core i9 10900X still relevant in 2023?
The Intel Core i9 10900X is still a powerful processor, capable of handling demanding tasks. However, newer processors like the Intel Core i9-13900K offer improved performance and efficiency. If you’re looking for the absolute latest technology, consider exploring these newer options.
5. What are the key differences between the Intel Core i7 4750HQ and the Intel Core i9 10900X?
The key differences lie in the generation, core count, clock speeds, TDP, and integrated graphics. The 4750HQ is a mobile processor with lower performance and power consumption, while the 10900X is a high-end desktop processor designed for demanding tasks.