Intel Core i7-1165G7 @ 28W Performance Review: Is It Worth the Upgrade?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Laptop Specifications
   1. ASUS Zenbook Flip S UX371
   2. ASUS Vivobook S15 S533EA
3. Understanding Wattage
4. Performance Comparison
   1. Synthetic Benchmarks
   2. Gaming Performance
      • Fortnite
      • Overwatch
      • GTA 5
      • Genshin Impact
   3. CPU Intensive Games
      • Far Cry New DAWN
      • Call of Duty: Modern Warfare
5. Temperature and Cooling
6. Conclusion
7. The Importance of Spec Sheets
8. Recommendations for Customers
9. Final Thoughts
10. FAQ

💻 Laptop Performance Comparison: Intel Core i7 1165 G7 at 15W vs 28W

The advancement in technology has introduced new processors with improved architectures and increased power efficiency. In this article, we will be comparing the performance of two laptops featuring the latest Intel Core i7 1165 G7 processor, but operating at different wattages. Specifically, we will examine the ASUS Zenbook Flip S UX371, running at 15 watts, and the unreleased ASUS Vivobook S15 S533EA, operating at a maximum of 28 watts.

1. Introduction

The purpose of this comparison is to explore the differences in performance when the same chip is utilized at varying wattages. Although the two laptops cater to different user needs, we aim to provide insights into their performance aspects. The Intel Core i7 1165 G7 processor, which is common to both laptops, can operate at a maximum of 28 watts. However, it is important to note that these laptops offer unique experiences for users with different requirements.

2. Laptop Specifications

2.1 ASUS Zenbook Flip S UX371

The Zenbook Flip S UX371 is an ultrabook laptop that embodies portability and performance. Operating at a mere 15 watts, this thin and light laptop is designed for users who prioritize mobility without compromising on functionality. With 16 GB of RAM and a 1 TB SSD, it delivers a seamless multitasking experience.

2.2 ASUS Vivobook S15 S533EA

The unreleased Vivobook S15 S533EA, on the other HAND, operates at a maximum of 28 watts. Equipped with the same Intel Core i7 1165 G7 processor, 16 GB of RAM, and a 1 TB SSD, it offers a slightly different user experience. Additionally, it features ASUS Intelligent Performance Technology (AIPT), enhancing its capabilities with optimized power profiles.

3. Understanding Wattage

To understand the performance variations between the laptops, we must first comprehend the significance of wattage. Wattage determines the power consumption of a device and affects its performance capabilities. While the Intel Core i7 1165 G7 processor can operate at a maximum of 28 watts, stress testing revealed that the Zenbook Flip S UX371 operates at 15 watts.

4. Performance Comparison

4.1 Synthetic Benchmarks

Synthetic benchmarks provide a foundation for evaluating performance. Testing both laptops using the same version of the driver and on identical Windows 10 configurations, we discovered that the Vivobook, operating at 28 watts, surprisingly obtained lower scores in most benchmarks. However, it outperformed the Zenbook in Cinebench R20 for both single-core and multi-core tests.

4.2 Gaming Performance

To assess real-world performance, we conducted gaming tests on both laptops.

• Fortnite: The Zenbook, operating at 15 watts, displayed inconsistent frame rates with occasional dips, resulting in a suboptimal gaming experience. In contrast, the Vivobook, with its 28-watt configuration, provided a smoother gameplay experience, even at lower graphical settings.

• Overwatch: Similar to Fortnite, the 15-watt version experienced frame rate drops, while the 28-watt Vivobook maintained a minimum frame rate above 50 frames per Second, ensuring a more enjoyable gaming experience.

• GTA 5: The 15-watt Zenbook struggled to maintain a consistent frame rate, frequently dropping to 21 frames per second. On the other hand, the 28-watt Vivobook maintained an overall frame rate above 30 frames per second, delivering surprisingly smooth performance.

• Genshin Impact: The 15-watt Zenbook exhibited inconsistent frame rates and noticeable stutters. Although the 28-watt Vivobook still experienced occasional stutters, they were significantly reduced, making it a viable option for playing Genshin Impact at lower graphical settings.

4.3 CPU Intensive Games

Certain games, particularly those with demanding CPU requirements, demonstrated the disparity in performance between the two laptops.

• Far Cry New Dawn: Both laptops exhibited similar frame rates, indicating that the GPU's capabilities limited performance, regardless of the wattage.

• Call of Duty: Modern Warfare: While the 28-watt version offered slightly higher frame rates, the overall experience was still affected by CPU limitations, resulting in noticeable stuttering during gameplay.

The benchmark and gaming tests demonstrate that the 28-watt configuration allows the CPU to operate with greater headroom. Thus, for CPU-intensive tasks, the 28-watt Vivobook is expected to perform better.

5. Temperature and Cooling

Considering the Zenbook Flip S UX371's ultrathin and lightweight design, it features a smaller heatsink with a single heat pipe. In contrast, the Vivobook S15 S533EA has a wider heatsink and a slightly larger fan chamber. As a result, the Vivobook demonstrated better temperature management, reaching around 80 degrees Celsius at 28 watts, while the Zenbook reached approximately 82 degrees Celsius.

6. Conclusion

In conclusion, the 15-watt and 28-watt versions of the Intel Core i7 1165 G7 processor offer distinct performance characteristics. The difference lies in the CPU headroom, favoring the 28-watt configuration for tasks that require simultaneous CPU and GPU utilization. Intel's Tiger Lake chips have exhibited impressive performance on integrated GPUs, opening up possibilities for older AAA titles on integrated graphics.

7. The Importance of Spec Sheets

One crucial aspect that has been overlooked is the lack of Clarity regarding the maximum operating wattage in the laptop specifications. This omission creates confusion for customers, as laptops with the same processor may perform differently. It is recommended that laptop manufacturers include the maximum operating wattage in the spec sheet to facilitate informed decision-making.

8. Recommendations for Customers

As a potential customer, it is advisable to Seek in-depth reviews of laptops featuring Tiger Lake chips. These reviews offer realistic insights into real-life performance and help ensure that you make an informed purchase decision.

9. Final Thoughts

The Intel Core i7 1165 G7, at 15 watts and 28 watts, demonstrates Intel's advancements in processor technology. While we await AMD's response with their next-gen Ryzen mobile chips, it is evident that Tiger Lake poses a significant challenge. The competition between Intel and AMD will undoubtedly lead to further innovations and enhancements in mobile computing.

Highlights:

• The performance of laptops with Intel Core i7 1165 G7 varies depending on the wattage.
• Synthetic benchmarks show inconsistent results, with the 28-watt Vivobook performing worse in most cases.
• In gaming, the 15-watt Zenbook exhibits frame rate dips, while the 28-watt Vivobook delivers smoother gameplay experiences.
• CPU-intensive games benefit from the extra headroom provided by the 28-watt configuration.
• Temperature management is better in the Vivobook due to its wider heatsink and larger fan chamber.
• The lack of information on maximum operating wattage in laptop specifications creates confusion for customers.

FAQ

Q: How can I determine the maximum operating wattage of a laptop? A: Unfortunately, laptop manufacturers often omit this information from their specifications. It is advisable to consult in-depth reviews or contact the manufacturer directly to ascertain the maximum operating wattage.

Q: Which type of user benefits more from the 28-watt configuration? A: Users who engage in CPU-intensive tasks, such as content creation, video editing, or running resource-intensive software, will experience superior performance with the 28-watt configuration.

Q: Should I prioritize wattage when selecting a laptop with the Intel Core i7 1165 G7 processor? A: It is crucial to consider your specific needs and use cases. Both the 15-watt and 28-watt versions have their advantages. If you primarily focus on portability and battery life, the 15-watt configuration may be more suitable. However, if you require increased CPU performance and multitasking capabilities, the 28-watt configuration would be preferable.

Q: Is Intel's Tiger Lake a notable improvement over previous generations? A: Yes, Intel's Tiger Lake chips represent a significant improvement, particularly in integrated GPU performance. This advancement allows for playable frame rates in graphically demanding games on integrated graphics.

Resources:

• ASUS Official Website
• Intel Official Website