The Top 5 Best Intel Integrated GPUs in 2025
6/30/2025The Top 5 Best Intel Integrated GPUs in 2025
Integrated Graphics Processing Units (iGPUs) have long shed their reputation as mere display connectors. For millions of users, they are the sole graphics solution, powering everything from daily productivity and 4K video playback to esports titles and even some demanding games at lower settings. Intel, traditionally behind AMD in iGPU performance, has made significant strides with its recent architectures, particularly with the advent of Intel Arc graphics integrated into their latest processors.
As of mid-2025, Intel's iGPU landscape is primarily defined by its modern Xe architecture, which powers both the familiar Iris Xe and the newer, more powerful Arc Graphics. Here's a look at the top 5 Intel iGPUs that deliver the most value and capability:
Intel Arc Graphics (Lunar Lake - e.g., Arc 8 Xe-Cores / Arc 140V)
Found In: Upcoming Intel Core Ultra 200 series (Lunar Lake) mobile processors (e.g., Core Ultra 7 256V, Core Ultra 9 288V).
Why it's #1: Representing Intel's cutting edge in integrated graphics, the Arc Graphics in Lunar Lake processors are a significant leap forward. Utilizing the Xe² LPG architecture (Battlemage-derived), these iGPUs feature up to 8 Xe-Cores (containing 64 Execution Units and 128 Xe Vector Engines) and dedicated Ray Tracing units. Launched in late 2024, early benchmarks indicate performance that can rival entry-level dedicated GPUs, making 1080p gaming on low to medium settings a real possibility for many 2023-2024 titles. This is Intel's strongest play yet for serious iGPU performance.
Intel Arc Graphics (Meteor Lake - e.g., Intel Arc Graphics with 8 Xe-Cores)
Found In: Intel Core Ultra 100 series (Meteor Lake) processors (e.g., Core Ultra 7 155H, Core Ultra 9 185H).
Why it's #2: The debut of integrated Arc Graphics within the Meteor Lake chips (launched late 2023) marked a turning point for Intel's iGPU capabilities. These iGPUs, also based on the Xe LPG architecture, typically feature 7 or 8 Xe-Cores (up to 128 Execution Units / Xe Vector Engines). They offer substantial improvements over previous Iris Xe generations, providing a solid foundation for casual gaming, professional applications leveraging GPU acceleration, and smooth 4K media consumption. They deliver commendable performance for esports titles and older AAA games at reduced settings.
Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 (96 Execution Units)
Found In: 11th, 12th, and 13th Generation Intel Core i7 and Core i5 mobile processors (e.g., Core i7-1165G7, i7-1260P, i7-1360P).
Why it's #3: Before Arc, Iris Xe was Intel's flagship iGPU, and the 96 EU variant remains a highly capable integrated solution. Found primarily in thinner and lighter laptops, it excels at everyday tasks, high-resolution video playback, and casual gaming. Esports titles like CS: GO, League of Legends, and Valorant run smoothly at 1080p on medium settings. It also provides hardware acceleration for various creative applications, making it a versatile choice for students and professionals on the go.
Intel UHD Graphics 770
Found In: 12th, 13th, and 14th Generation Intel Core i9, i7, and i5 desktop processors (e.g., i9-12900K, i7-13700K, i5-14600K).
Why it's #4: While often overlooked by users who pair these CPUs with discrete graphics cards, the UHD Graphics 770 is the most powerful iGPU available in Intel's mainstream desktop lineup. Based on the Xe architecture but with fewer Execution Units (typically 32), it's not a gaming powerhouse like its mobile Iris Xe or Arc counterparts. However, it's perfectly capable of driving multiple 4K displays, handling video encoding/decoding, and running older or very light games. For systems without a discrete GPU, it's a solid, reliable performer for daily computing.
5. Intel Iris Xe Graphics G7 (80 Execution Units)
Found In: 11th, 12th, and 13th Generation Intel Core i5 mobile processors (e.g., Core i5-1135G7, i5-1240P, i5-1340P).
Why it's #5: A slightly scaled-down version of the 96 EU Iris Xe, the 80 EU variant still offers a very competent integrated graphics experience. It maintains strong multimedia capabilities and can handle light gaming and esports at similar settings to its 96 EU sibling, albeit with slightly lower frame rates. For the average user looking for a responsive laptop that can do more than just browse the web, this iGPU provides a good balance of performance and efficiency.
The Road Ahead
Intel's commitment to improving its integrated graphics is clear. With the Arc architecture now at the forefront, the gap between Intel's iGPUs and AMD's Radeon integrated graphics (which have historically held a performance lead) is narrowing, and in some cases, Intel is pulling ahead. For those building or buying systems without a discrete graphics card, these top Intel iGPUs offer increasingly compelling performance for a wide range of tasks.