CPU Showdown: Intel Core i7 4702MQ vs Intel Core i9 10900X – Which Processor Wins?

Choosing the right CPU can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a vast array of options. Today, we’ll be comparing two processors from different generations, the Intel Core i7 4702MQ and the Intel Core i9 10900X, to help you understand their strengths and weaknesses. This comprehensive comparison will guide you in making an informed decision based on your specific needs and budget.

Understanding the Core i7 4702MQ and Core i9 10900X

The Intel Core i7 4702MQ is a mobile processor launched in 2013 as part of the Haswell generation. It features a quad-core design with a base clock speed of 2.2 GHz and a boost clock speed of 3.2 GHz.
On the other hand, the Intel Core i9 10900X is a desktop processor released in 2019, belonging to the Cascade Lake-X series. It boasts a 10-core design with a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock speed of 4.7 GHz.

Architecture and Performance

The Intel Core i7 4702MQ utilizes the Haswell architecture, which was a significant performance improvement over its predecessor, Ivy Bridge. The Core i9 10900X, however, leverages the Cascade Lake-X architecture, offering even more advancements in performance, efficiency, and features.
The Core i9 10900X significantly outperforms the Core i7 4702MQ in raw processing power due to its higher core count, higher clock speeds, and the newer architecture. This translates to faster rendering times, smoother multitasking, and superior gaming performance in demanding titles.

Power Consumption and Thermal Design Power (TDP)

The Core i7 4702MQ has a TDP of 47W, making it a power-efficient processor suitable for laptops and other mobile devices. The Core i9 10900X, on the other hand, has a TDP of 165W, requiring a more robust cooling solution to manage its heat output. This higher TDP also translates to higher power consumption, potentially affecting your electricity bill.

Cache Memory

The Core i7 4702MQ features 6MB of L3 cache, while the Core i9 10900X offers a whopping 19.25MB of L3 cache. This larger cache allows the Core i9 10900X to store more frequently accessed data, leading to faster access times and overall improved performance.

Integrated Graphics

The Core i7 4702MQ integrates Intel HD Graphics 4600, providing basic graphics capabilities for everyday tasks. The Core i9 10900X, however, lacks integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated graphics card for any visual output.

Price and Availability

The Intel Core i7 4702MQ is an older processor and is no longer readily available for purchase. However, you might find it in used or refurbished devices. The Core i9 10900X is still available for purchase, but its price point is significantly higher than the Core i7 4702MQ.

Use Cases: When to Choose Each Processor

The Intel Core i7 4702MQ was designed for mobile devices like laptops and ultrabooks. Its low TDP and integrated graphics make it suitable for tasks like web browsing, document editing, and casual gaming. However, its performance limitations make it unsuitable for demanding workloads like video editing or 3D rendering.
The Intel Core i9 10900X, on the other hand, is a powerhouse processor intended for desktop PCs. Its high core count, high clock speeds, and large cache make it ideal for demanding applications like 3D modeling, video editing, gaming, and content creation. However, its high TDP and lack of integrated graphics require a dedicated cooling solution and a discrete graphics card.

The Verdict: Choosing the Right Processor

Ultimately, the choice between the Intel Core i7 4702MQ and the Intel Core i9 10900X depends entirely on your specific needs and budget. If you’re looking for a power-efficient processor for a mobile device and don’t require high performance, the Core i7 4702MQ might be a suitable option, although its availability is limited.
However, if you need a powerful processor for a desktop PC and are willing to invest in a robust cooling solution and a dedicated graphics card, the Core i9 10900X offers superior performance for demanding tasks.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Future Options

While the Intel Core i7 4702MQ and the Intel Core i9 10900X represent different eras of CPU technology, it’s important to consider newer options available in the market. Intel continues to release new generations of processors with improved performance, efficiency, and features.
If you’re looking for a mobile processor, consider Intel’s latest 12th and 13th generation Core i7 and Core i9 models for their improved performance and power efficiency. For desktop PCs, Intel’s 12th and 13th generation Core i9 processors offer even more cores, higher clock speeds, and enhanced features, making them ideal for demanding workloads.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Is the Core i9 10900X still a good choice in 2023?
A: While the Core i9 10900X was a powerful processor at its time, newer generations of CPUs offer significantly better performance and power efficiency. If you’re considering a new desktop PC, it’s recommended to explore Intel‘s latest 12th and 13th generation Core i9 processors.
Q: What are the differences between the Intel Core i7 and Core i9 series?
A: The Intel Core i7 and Core i9 series are both high-performance processors, but Core i9 processors generally offer more cores, higher clock speeds, and larger cache sizes, making them suitable for demanding workloads.
Q: What is the best processor for gaming?
A: The best processor for gaming depends on your budget and the specific games you play. For demanding games, a high-core count processor like the Intel Core i9 13900K or AMD Ryzen 9 7950X is recommended.
Q: What are the advantages of a higher TDP?
A: A higher TDP generally indicates a more powerful processor with higher clock speeds and potentially more cores. However, it also means higher power consumption and the need for a more robust cooling solution.
Q: How can I choose the right processor for my needs?
A: Consider your budget, the type of tasks you’ll be performing (e.g., gaming, video editing, web browsing), and the type of device you’re using (e.g., laptop, desktop). Research different processor options and compare their specifications and performance benchmarks to make an informed decision.