Why do you want an i7 laptop and not one with an i5 intel core processor or even an i9 variant?
Is it simply peer pressure or have you already taken care of the due diligence concerning the processing technologies and underlying factors?
If you have thought these questions through, let me help you by first validating and applauding your decision of getting an i7 laptop. Secondly, before you take the plunge and spend at least $900 on a new laptop, it is important to know a bit about the i7 chipsets, expectations, latest developments, and the best notebook variants that are still up for grabs.
But then, I will keep the technical jargon out and make you understand the basics and even complex aspects with standardized examples. Firstly, the i7 family of chipsets is the most balanced one when it comes to handling multitasking, professional tasks like video editing, demanding games, and even content creation with resource-intensive software solutions at work.
Plus, the laptop-adhering i7 chipsets allow content-specific apps like the ones housed within the Adobe CS, to leverage several cores at once. Despite some i5 quad-core processors offering 4 or even more cores at times, only i7 chipsets hit a sweet spot between pricing and productivity
Now that you are a step further towards taking an informed decision regarding i7 processors, the question concerning the type of laptop to get looms large. However, based on the popularity, the number of cores, cache memory, and the integrated utilities, I would suggest three specific i7 chipsets, if you are planning to get a laptop in 2022.
i7-9750H Vs i7-10750H Vs i7-1065G7 Vs i7-1165G7
![10 Best i7 Laptop Choices in 2022 - [ 20+ Models Tested ]](https://i0.wp.com/unslider.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/i7-CPU-comparison-chart-1.png?resize=1024%2C323&ssl=1 "i7-CPU-comparison-chart-1 | Unslider")
My first recommendation would be a laptop with the i7-9750H processor. Despite being a 9th gen chipset, it has enough firepower to run most high-end games. Plus, this processor usually comes with a GTX 16-series or the RTX 20-series GPU.
Next in line is the i7-10750H processor, which offers an exceptional increment over the 9th gen variant, courtesy of the massive turbo clock speed limit of 5.0GHz.
In addition to the H-series chipsets, the i7-1065G7 is also a reliable laptop processor to invest in, owing to the 8MB of cache memory and maximum clock speed of up to 3.9GHz. As it is a G-series processor, you can expect excellent graphics support with the Iris graphics, leading the way.
However, going deep into 2022, I would recommend laptops with the new i7-1165G7 chipset as they are surprisingly faster as compared to the 10th gen G7 variants. Also, as per the comparative multicore benchmark results released by CPU Mark, this laptop processor is significantly ahead of the i7-8750H and the Ryzen 5 3500U by almost 4 percent and 30 percent, respectively.
Other attributes expected to feature on high-end and mid-range i7 laptops include 8GB RAM, a minimum of 512GB solid-state drive support, 15.6-inch 1080p screen, Thunderbolt 3 ports in select cases, and a battery backup of at least 6 hours.
 | OUR TOP CHOICELG Gram | 16GB RAM, 1TB,11th gen i7,16-inch FHD with 22 Hours batteryThunderbolt 4. | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST INTEL MODELDell Inspiron 5000 | 32GB RAM, 1TB, 11th gen i715.6”-inch HD with 7 Hours Battery LifeWi-Fi 6 | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BEST HP CHOICEHP Pavilion 15 | 16GB RAM, 512GB, 11th gen 1715.6-inch FHD and 8 hours Battery Life.SuperSpeed Ports | CHECK PRICE → |
 | BESTHP Spectre 13 x360 | 16GB RAM, 512GB , 10th gen i713.3-inch HD with 18 Hours Battery LifeConvertible | CHECK PRICE → |
 | Dell latitude 3510 | 16GB RAM, 1TB, 10th gen i715.6-inch FHD with 11 Hours Battery LifeGlare-free panel | CHECK PRICE → |
 | Lenovo ThinkPad E15 | 16GB RAM, 1TB, 10th gen i715.6-inch HD with 11 Hours Battery LifePrivacy shutter | CHECK PRICE → |
 | Acer Predator Helios 300 | 16GB RAM, 512GB, 10th gen i715.6-inch HD with 6.5 Hours Battery LifeRTX 3060 GPU | CHECK PRICE → |
 | Razer Blade 15 | 16GB RAM, 512GB, 10th gen i7,15.6-inch HD with 7 Hours Battery LifeUpgradable SSD | CHECK PRICE → |
 | Dell XPS 13 | 16GB RAM, 512GB, 11th gen i713.4-inch HD with 11 Hours Battery LifeThunderbolt 3 | CHECK PRICE → |
 | Asus VivoBook S15 | 16GB RAM, 512GB, 11th gen i715.6-inch HD with 8 Hours Battery Life12MB Cache | CHECK PRICE → |
However, I was most impressed by the single-thread benchmark rating where the i7-1165G7 takes the second position, only after the Apple M1 processor. Plus, this processor is at par with any 10th gen H-series SoC, in terms of cache memory, which is set at 12MB. Finally, it brings the Intel Iris Xe into the mix for managing most casual and even entry-level games with ease.
Best Laptop with i7: Top Pick
If you are willing to take my word and make the purchase, consider the LG Gram 16 without second guesses. While the massive battery backup that stands out, this i7 laptop also boasts a pretty inclusive specs sheet with Thunderbolt support, EVO compatibility, and 1TB SSD being a few reliable traits to name.
Minimum Specifications List
- CPU: 1.3GHz Intel i7
- RAM: 8GB
- Storage: 512GB SSD
- Graphics: Iris Plus graphics
- OS: W10
- Battery Life: Up to 6 Hours
Note: Regardless of the platform you purchase the laptop from, kindly make it a point to get at least the minimum specifications while going with an i7 laptop. I have kept the mentioned specs list as the bare minimum while drafting a list of the top 10 i7 machines.
10 Best i7 Laptops Enlisted
In the subsequent sections, I have enumerated the best i7 laptops that money can buy in 2022. However, each of the mentioned gadgets has different skill sets, thereby catering to a varied user base.
1. LG Gram
PROS
- Massive backup
- High-speed processor
- Ultra-fast RAM
- Excellent storage
- Stellar display
CONS
- Lacks a dedicated GPU
- Not meant for 3D rendering
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 1TB
- Graphics: Iris Xe
- OS: Windows
- Battery Life: Up to 22 Hours
Review
The LG Gram 16 is the best i7 notebook on the list despite lacking a dedicated graphics card. What works for this device is the all-inclusive functionality, led by 22 hours of backup, innovative Thunderbolt 4 slots, and Wi-Fi AX support.
Design and Display
The metal-clad LG Gram weighs 2.6 pounds, which is pretty light for a 16-inch behemoth. As far as the interface is concerned, the 16-inch WQXGA is a sight to behold, more so due to the 99 percent DCI-P3 color gamut.
Internals
LG makes way for a 16GB; high-speed, low-power RAM module that is capable of processing data and cache at 4266MHz. There is a 1TB SSD unit in place that loads most files and the Windows OS, rather quickly.
Productivity and Performance
There is an 11th gen Intel Core i7 processor in play, assisted further by the Intel Iris Xe graphics support. Plus, you get access to USB Type-A, TB 4, HDMI, Wi-Fi 6, and other connectivity-specific specs.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
Finally, the LG Gram 16 also brings in a reliable backlit keyboard with 1.5mm travel, a wide trackpad, and excellent acoustics, thereby adding to the overall presence.
1. LG Gram
2. Dell Inspiron 5000
PROS
- State-of-art aesthetics
- Diverse connectivity suite
- Anti-glare display
- Wireless support
- A massive chunk of RAM
CONS
- Underwhelming battery
- Not meant for heavy gaming
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- RAM: 32GB
- Storage: 1TB
- Graphics: Iris Xe
- OS: W10 Pro
- Battery Life: Up to 7 Hours
Review
Launched recently, the Dell Inspiron 5000 quite appropriately secures the second spot for itself, courtesy of the exceptionally designed form factor, reliable HD webcam, and a pretty extensive connectivity suite.
Design and Display
The 15.6-inch 1080p screen readily complements the light-weighted chassis. At 3.78 pounds, the Inspiron 5000 is easy to carry around. Plus, the metallic chassis looks premium but doesn’t let go of the durability quotient.
Internals
The 32GB RAM module stands out, qualifying the Inspiron 5000 as the go-to i7 laptop for professional commitments. Also, you get a 1TB solid-state drive for storing files, apps, and the concerned operating system.
Productivity and Performance
The Intel Core i7 processor hails from the 11th gen of chipsets, with the Iris Xe graphics coprocessor taking good care of the visuals. Also, the integrated GPU performs way better than the integrated Intel UHD graphics.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
The Dell Inspiron 5000 readily justifies its position as the runner-up with Wi-Fi 6 support, a glare-free screen, HyperThreading support for the processor, and a reliable backlit keyboard. My only issue with this laptop is the 7-hour backup.
2. Dell Inspiron 5000
3. HP Pavilion 15
PROS
- Stellar display
- A sizable chunk of RAM
- Impressive aesthetics
CONS
- Lacks Thunderbolt ports
- Not a gaming laptop
- CPU: 11th gen Intel Core i7-1165G7
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Graphics: Iris Xe
- OS: W10 Pro
- Battery Life: Up to 8 Hours
Review
For me, the HP Pavilion 15 is one of the better-priced i7 laptops on the list. While I would talk about the primary specs at length, the utilitarian nature of this laptop exceeds the standard features, courtesy of the 8-hour backup, SuperSpeed USB-C ports, and fast charging support.
Design and Display
The HP Pavilion 15 comes in silver and flaunts state-of-art aesthetics. The 15.6-inch IPS panel takes productivity farther, courtesy of the slimmer bezels and the 178-degree, wide-angle projection. In addition to these traits, HP also packs in a full-size backlit keyboard, clubbed with the elusive, precision trackpad.
Internals
When it comes to memory allocation, 16GB RAM is a lifesaver. In addition to swift multitasking, HP takes care of storage requirements by stacking in a 512GB SSD. The existing solid-state drive also ensures that the Windows operating system loads faster than usual.
Productivity and Performance
The i7-1165G7 processor is easily the best trait on offer, working in tandem with the Iris Xe graphics, which also takes good care of visuals and low-end games
Why should you purchase this laptop?
Overall, if you are looking for a display-heavy laptop with ample storage space, the Pavilion 15 from HP is worth buying in 2022.
3. HP Pavilion 15
4. HP Spectre 13 x360
PROS
- Excellent security safeguards
- Thunderbolt 3 port
- 10th gen processor for better speeds
- Stellar display
- 18 hours of backup
CONS
- Not the widest possible viewing experience
- Not fit for gaming
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1065G7
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Graphics: Intel Iris Plus
- OS: Windows
- Battery Life: Up to 18 Hours
Review
If you are in the market for a nifty little i7 convertible, there is hardly a better laptop than the HP Spectre 13 x360. While there are quite a few good things about this ultraportable unit, I was most impressed by the security-specific fingerprint scanner, B&O speakers, ultra-fast connectivity suite, and unmatched stylus compatibility.
Design and Display
The HP Spectre 13 x360 is strictly a metal-clad unit that weighs 2.88 pounds and flaunts rounded edges. Also, the 13.3-inch FHD screen supports multimode operability and offers touch support, whilst supporting multi-mode operability.
Internals
In terms of multitasking, there is 16GB of RAM to work with. However, files, W10 Pro operating system, and software solutions are deftly stored within the 512GB solid-state drive.
Productivity and Performance
The Intel Core i7-1065G7 chipset, clubbed with the Iris Plus support, drives this convertible. While the built-in graphics are better than the Intel UHD graphics, it still doesn’t fit the bill when gaming and 3D rendering are concerned.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
You can purchase the HP Spectre 13 x360 if you are a globetrotter and looking for a small yet insanely powerful notebook for managing office and personal work.
4. HP Spectre 13 x360
5. Dell Latitude 3510
PROS
- High-speed RAM
- Sizeable SSD
- Diverse connectivity suite
- Stereo speakers
- Excellent battery backup
CONS
- Predictable design
- No backlit keyboard
- CPU: Intel Core i7-10510U
- RAM: 16GB
- Storage: 1TB
- Graphics: UHD graphics
- OS: Windows 10 Pro
- Battery Life: Up to 11 Hours
Review
The Dell Latitude 3510 is one of the better professional laptops on the list, best known for the high-speed internet access, Gig Ethernet support, and an otherwise beefed-up connectivity suite. Also, the 11-hour battery backup makes it a reliable business asset.
Design and Display
When it comes to the physical dimensions and build quality, this plastic-clad notebook measures 14.23 x 9.76 x 0.71 inches! However, the metallic undertones try to add some additional heft to the chassis that otherwise weighs 3.95 pounds.
The 15.6-inch anti-glare panel doesn’t offer touch support but allows you to experience unmatched clarity, courtesy of the 1080p resolution.
Internals
This Intel Core i7 laptop is quite heavy in terms of memory allocation with the 16GB RAM and the NVMe-compatible 1TB SSD module, leading the way.
Productivity and Performance
The Intel Core i7 processor pertaining to this laptop hails from the U-series of chipset and is meant for exceptional low-power performances. The UHD graphics make an impression by adding clarity to the exceptional display.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
You should get this laptop if you have a penchant for Dell’s professional lineup and excellent acoustics.
5. Dell Latitude 3510
6. Lenovo ThinkPad E15
PROS
- Sizable storage
- Advanced security spaces
- Glare-free screen
- Privacy shutter
- Fingerprint reader
CONS
- Lacks Wireless AX support
- Lacks a backlit keyboard
- CPU: Intel Core i7-10510U
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 1TB
- Graphics: UHD graphics
- OS: W10 Pro
- Battery Life: Up to 11 Hours
Review
The ThinkPad E15 from Lenovo is a typical business laptop, characterized by a massive battery, advanced security specs, an HD webcam with an integrated privacy shutter, and a glare-free panel.
Design and Display
The aluminum-clad notebook weighs close to 4.3 pounds and comes equipped with a standard 15.6 FHD screen. Also, the 15-inch panel boasts excellent sunlight visibility.
Internals
I was most impressed by the 16GB high-speed RAM, which is perfectly complemented by 1TB of SSD space. The existing SSD ensures that the Windows 10 OS and the housed applications load in virtually no time.
Productivity and Performance
The Lenovo ThinkPad E15 comes equipped with the i7-10510U chipset that is capable of clocking at 4.9GHz. It is perfectly complemented by the UHD graphics and 8MB of cache memory.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
If you are in the market for a business laptop that is both sleek and durable, the Lenovo ThinkPad E15 is the perfect i7 laptop to dig into.
6. Lenovo ThinkPad E15
7. Acer Predator Helios 300
PROS
- Powerful graphics card
- Future-proof, H-series processor
- Backlit keyboard
- High-speed internet
- Upgradable SSD
CONS
- Bulky
- Pricey
- CPU: Intel Core i7-10750H
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3060
- OS: Windows 10 Home
- Battery Life: Up to 6.5 Hours
Review
Finally, I bring you an out-and-out gaming laptop that exceeds expectations and doesn’t remain restricted to the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 GPU. Instead, you get access to the newest model, promising better gaming performances and exceptional processing support.
Design and Display
This rugged and durable notebook weighs 4.85 pounds and comes equipped with a standard 15.6-inch screen. However, I was most impressed with the 144Hz refresh rate that is well complemented by the 3ms response time, for keeping ghosting and frame drops to a minimum.
Internals
Acer offers 16GB dual-channel RAM followed by the 512GB NVMe-compatible SSD module. The best part about the memory allocation is that you can consider upgrading, courtesy of the 2 PCIe slots.
Productivity and Performance
The Predator Helios brings in the ultra-fast i7-10750H chipset and the RTX 3060 graphics card to work along with the same. The existing processing setup is good enough for managing most professional tasks and complex games like Cyberpunk 2077 and more.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
You can consider investing in this laptop for the exceptional gaming performance and the excellent AeroBlade fan technology for keeping heat generation to a minimum.
7. Acer Predator Helios 300
8. Razer Blade 15 Base
PROS
- Brilliant display
- Class-leading processing setup
- Upgradable Solid state drive
- Thunderbolt 3 support
- Reliable battery
CONS
- High price range
- Not the sleekest notebook around
- CPU: 10th gen Intel Core i7-10750H
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Graphics: RTX 3060
- OS: W10
- Battery Life: Up to 7 Hours
Review
The Razer Blade 15 (Base variant) is the new kid on the block, boasting an upgradable SSD, powerful RTX graphics card, excellent processor, handy webcam, and an innovative Chroma-keyboard.
Design and Display
Coming to the design, the Blade 15 flaunts a metallic chassis that weighs a tad less than the 5-pound mark. However, it is the 15.6 FHD screen that makes a few heads roll. While you might be tempted to purchase the QHD model or the older variant with a 4K display, I feel that the 1080p screen on offer is better, courtesy of the 144Hz refresh rate.
Internals
At the core, you have the high-speed 16GB RAM and a 512GB, upgradable SSD unit that loads files and the Windows 10 Home operating system, in a heartbeat.
Productivity and Performance
This is one of the few gaming laptops to feature the RTX 3060 graphics card. The processing requirements, however, are taken care of by the 10th gen Intel core i7-10750H chipset that can reach turbo clock speeds of up to 5GHz.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
You can purchase this laptop if you want an aesthetic device that can also double up as an excellent gaming laptop.
8. Razer Blade 15 Base
9. Dell XPS 13 9310
PROS
- Stellar build quality
- Brilliant display
- High-speed RAM
- Minimal heat generation
- High-speed Wireless standard
CONS
- Not fit for high-end gaming
- Costly laptop
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1185G7
- RAM: 16 GB LPDDR4X
- Storage: 512GB
- Graphics: Iris Xe
- OS: Windows 10 Home
- Battery Life: Up to 11 Hours
Review
If you are in the market for something tiny yet mighty, the Dell XPS 13 should be the option to invest in. While the entire specs sheet is an enigma in itself, it is the extended array of productivity specs that steal the show, including the Fingerprint reader, Killer Wireless AX support, Thunderbolt 3 ports, and other relevant slots for amplified connectivity.
Design and Display
The Dell XPS 13 is a meticulously crafted laptop, with a metal-clad chassis and an excellent thermal design, leading the way. The 13.4-inch screen is remarkably bright and exhibits FHD+ resolution and touch support.
Internals
When it comes to memory allocation, Dell makes room for a 512GB solid-state drive followed by an ultra-fast, 16GB RAM module. Dell also packs in 12MB of cache memory to speed up certain processes.
Productivity and Performance
Not to mention the presence of the 11th gen Intel Core i7 processor that can reach maximum clock speeds of up to 4.8GHz. Also, the Iris Xe graphics support is a reliable ally, capable of handling most online games at 1080p resolution.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
If you want a sleek, aesthetic, and touch-friendly clamshell laptop, this ultraportable is the best option to invest in.
9. Dell XPS 13 9310
10. Asus VivoBook S15
PROS
- Thin and portable
- 11th gen processor
- High-speed wireless performance
- Fingerprint scanner
- Brilliant cooling setup
CONS
- Not fit for gaming
- No Thunderbolt 3 port
- CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
- RAM: 16 GB
- Storage: 512GB
- Graphics: Iris Xe
- OS: W10
- Battery Life: Up to 8 Hours
Review
The last product on our list definitely deserves a higher place if it would have been on any other list. Better called the VivoBook S15, this dependable product from Asus brings in a decent battery, Wireless AX, typing-friendly aesthetics, noise-cancellation support, and an entire gamut of ports and slots, including HDMI, Type-C, and more.
Design and Display
The VivoBook 15 is one of the lighter 15-inch laptops on the list at 3.97 pounds. In addition to the metal-clad structure, this laptop also makes room for a 15.6-inch 1080p screen and slimmer bezels.
Internals
You get access to 16GB RAM followed by a class-leading 512GB solid state drive, which loads the files and boots up the operating system in the least possible time.
Productivity and Performance
The i7 processor, hailing from the G-series is a life-saver when it comes to performance. While the graphics output is top-notch, the Iris Xe co-processor makes life easier for a professional. Plus, there is 12MB of cache memory in play to speed up select processes.
Why should you purchase this laptop?
If you are finding it hard to afford some of the more premium i7 laptops, the Asus VivoBook S15 is the best option to invest in, courtesy of the sub-$900 price point.
10. Asus VivoBook S15
Buying Guide: Things to know before purchasing an i7 Laptop
Now that I have discussed the 10 of the best laptops with i7 chipsets, it is necessary to revisit the factors that you need to keep in mind before selecting one.
Utility
The nature of your indulgence should determine the type of i7 laptop that you need to purchase. For instance, if you are mostly into graphic designing and 2D content creation, laptops with 10th gen G-series processors need to be prioritized.
However, for gamers and mid-level professionals, I would recommend something on the lines of H-series processors, like the Intel Core i7-10750H.
Graphics Support
While purchasing i7 laptops, you should keep a close eye on the type of graphics card that is being supplied with the notebooks. If you are planning to pursue gaming in any given capacity, you should at least aim for the NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics card. However, if you are only seeking decent processing performances and not gaming excellence, integrated graphics cards readily do the trick.
Memory Allocation
Depending on the price range and the computing requirements, it is necessary to aim for a decent chunk of RAM before purchasing relevant i7 laptops. Even if you cannot get your hands on 16GB RAM, aim for an 8GB dual-socketed module that supports upgradability.
Verdict
As the differences between laptops with i5 chipsets and i7 chipsets are way more nuanced and subtle, you really need to look carefully for finding the best computing device according to your budget. While I have enlisted quite a few options for you to pick, I would still prefer the famed LG Gram over any other device, citing holistic capabilities.
Also, I shall keep scavenging the market for other laptops, if and when they are launched, and will constantly update this discussion with newer models, tech hacks, and insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Q1. How are i7 chipsets segregated?
A1. Intel i7 SoCs are segregated as per generation. Therefore, you can end up purchasing laptops with 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, or even 11th gen i7 units, depending on the number of preferred cores and even the maximum clock speed. As per the current retail scenario, I would advise you to refrain from purchasing machines that run an i7 variant older than the 8th generation. -
Q2. What is the difference between different i7 processors featuring varied suffixes?
A2. When it comes to selecting i7 processors based on the suffixes, you end up getting three primary types of chipsets. The G-series i7 processors i.e. the i7-1065G7 are known for their graphics-specific performances, even without the presence of a dedicated graphics processing unit. The H-series processors are heavy on power and form the core of gaming and professionally resourceful laptops. The U-series processors are strictly low-power and more inclined towards battery saving. In some ways, they resemble the TDP levels showcased by the G-series processors but without state-of-art graphics support. -
Q3. Are i7 laptops good enough for gaming even without a dedicated graphics card?
A3. If you are on the lookout for gaming laptops with i7 processors, it is advisable to invest in a machine that at least features a GTX 16-series GPU. However, if you choose not to get into the intricacies of a graphics processing unit, you can invest in a laptop with the 11th gen i7 processor, precisely to make use of the Intel Iris Xe graphics card. Despite being an integrated graphics card, this tiger lake inclusion can still manage games like COS, DOTA 2, and more at 720p resolution. -
Q4. Are i7 laptops better than i5 notebooks?
A4. The only way a laptop with an i7 processor can be considered better than one with an i5 chipset is if they belong to the same generation. This way, you are expected to get hold of additional cores and better turbo clock speeds, which readily amplify the processing and gaming performances. -
Q5. Which AMD processors can complete with standard 10th gen i7 chipsets?
A5. The only AMD chipset that can compete with a 10th gen i7 processor is the Ryzen 7 that comes equipped with a higher overall frequency and a better AMD Radeon Pro graphics card.