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AMD Ryzen 7 8700G vs AMD Ryzen 9 7940hs – desktop APU or laptop power?

Which processor will come out on top?
Last Updated on February 19, 2024
Comparing the performance of AMD Ryzen 9 1700X and AMD Ryzen 9 CPUs. Image shows the two processors on an orange background below the PC guide logo
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With AMD’s recent release of the Ryzen 7 8700G APU, a question of how it compares to other powerful processors comes to mind. More specifically, processors with integrated graphics cards. In this CPU comparison, we’ll be taking a look at AMD Ryzen 7 8700G vs AMD Ryzen 9 7940hs; covering their basic parameters like specifications, performance, and price in a bid to find out which will come out on top.

AI is breaking through every aspect of our lives, and it was just a matter of time before we saw the first dedicated AI hardware. The Ryzen 9 7940HS is the first Phoenix series Zen 4 laptop chip, and we aim to see how it utilizes its impressive technology. Focusing on differences in 4 nm architectures and how speed can make a difference in performance.

If you’re looking to find out more about AMD’s recent APU release, here’s our best motherboard for Ryzen 7 8700G and our Ryzen 7 8700G vs Ryzen 9 7950X3D comparison guide.

Let’s jump right in!

AMD Ryzen 7 8700G vs AMD Ryzen 9 7940hs – specs and performance

The AMD Ryzen 9 7940HS marks a significant stride in mobile computing as the inaugural Phoenix series Zen 4 laptop chip, launched in January 2023. Sporting 8 cores and utilizing AMD’s Simultaneous Multithreading (SMT) to double the thread count to 16, it’s a testament to AMD’s innovation in the mobile sector. Operating at a base frequency of 4 GHz with the potential to boost up to 5.2 GHz under certain workloads, the 7940HS is built on a 4 nm process by TSMC, packing 25 billion transistors into its architecture. However, it’s worth noting that its multiplier is locked, capping its max overclocking capabilities.

In comparison, the AMD Ryzen 7 8700G, also benefiting from the advanced 4 nm lithography, stands as a compelling desktop APU. What sets these two units apart significantly, besides their intended platforms, is their integrated GPU (iGPU). Both the 8700G and the 7940HS come equipped with the Radeon 780M iGPU, with the 8700G’s slightly higher boost at 2.90 GHz compared to the 7940HS’s 2.80 GHz. This similarity in iGPU specs sets a common ground for comparing their graphics performance.

SpecificationsAMD Ryzen 7 8700GAMD Ryzen 9 7940HS
Cores / Threads8/168/16
Base Clock4.2 GHz4 GHz
Boost Clock5.1 GHz5.2 GHz
LithographyTSMC 4 nmTSMC 4 nm
Cache L316 MB16 MB
TDP65 W35 W

Performance benchmarks reveal the 7940HS’s prowess, especially in a high-performance setting like the Razer Blade 14’s custom mode. In Cinebench R20 and R23 test results, the 7940HS demonstrates remarkable scores that closely shadow those of desktop counterparts like the Intel Core i7 12700K, despite the form factor limitations. This level of performance, within 15% of desktop Ryzen 7000 parts in both single and multi-core tests, underscores the 7940HS’s capacity to deliver desktop-like power in a compact, mobile form factor.

Moreover, the 7940HS’s AI capabilities introduce a new frontier for AMD processors. Though the ecosystem of AMD Ryzen AI Software Platform apps is still burgeoning, tools like the AMD Image Categorizer showcase the potential of local, AI-accelerated computing, leveraging advanced AI models directly on the Ryzen 7000HS machine.

When juxtaposed, the AMD Ryzen 7 8700G and Ryzen 9 7940HS highlight a fascinating cross-section of AMD’s 4 nm architecture’s versatility across platforms. While the 8700G presents a balanced, all-in-one solution for desktop users, especially those looking for an efficient APU with solid gaming capabilities, the 7940HS pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in mobile computing, blending high-speed performance with AI and gaming capabilities. This comparison not only showcases the strengths of each unit but also AMD’s broader vision for the future of computational power across different user needs and platforms.

AMD Ryzen 7 8700G vs AMD Ryzen 9 7940hs – price

Discussing the pricing between the AMD Ryzen 7 8700G and the Ryzen 9 7940HS presents a unique challenge, as we’re comparing across different platforms. The 8700G, a desktop APU, is priced at $329. Factoring in the addition of an RTX 4060 and the necessary components for a complete system, the total cost for a robust desktop setup could round up to approximately $1150.

Conversely, the 7940HS, designed for the mobile sphere, finds its home in laptops like the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14. This particular model, equipped with the 7940HS and an RTX 4060 alongside a 165Hz IPS panel, comes with a price tag of $1579.

When it comes down to it, the price differential isn’t as stark as one might expect, considering the form factor advantages and the all-in-one convenience laptops offer. Both units, whether in a desktop or laptop configuration, cater to the mid-range, 1080p gaming market, aiming to deliver competent performance for the price. This makes both options viable for users prioritizing efficiency and performance within this specific segment.

What are the disadvantages of an APU?

AMD APUs are pretty impressive pieces of hardware, but what are their disadvantages? The main disadvantage of purchasing an APU would occur if you’re someone who intends to use your processor for computational intensive tasks. APUs are powerful pieces of equipment but they can only handle so much; things like high-end gaming or professional applications would be more well-suited to a dedicated CPU and GPU over an APU with less processing power.

Is the Ryzen 9 7940hs good for gaming?

The Ryzen 9 7940hs offers high frame rates and low power consumption increasing the performance of a device and allowing smooth gameplay. So, yes the Ryzen 9 7940hs is good for gaming; plus the mobile nature of the platform it powers means you can experience its power on the go.

AMD Ryzen 7 8700G vs AMD Ryzen 9 7940hs – conclusion

In conclusion, while the AMD Ryzen 7 8700G and Ryzen 9 7940HS hail from distinct realms of computing, desktop, and mobile respectively, their comparison illuminates a pivotal advancement in APU technology – the strength of the Radeon 780M iGPU.

This powerful integrated GPU stands as a testament to AMD’s commitment to revolutionizing the APU market, offering impressive performance and energy-efficient products that challenge traditional perceptions. Both units showcase the potential of integrated graphics, making it clear that whether for a versatile desktop setup or a high-performance laptop, the Radeon 780M is a game-changer in the APU landscape.

Eve is a writer and copy editor at PC Guide, who focuses on a broad range of topics but main interest lies in the development of AI technology.