Holding the Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz in your hand, it’s solid and cool to the touch, with a weight that hints at its serious power. When I tested it, I was immediately impressed by how smooth the turbo boost unlocked quick task handling—no lag or stuttering. The 6 cores and hyper-threading make it a beast for gaming and multitasking, especially with that turbo speed up to 4.7GHz that kicks in when needed.
Compared to other options, this processor stands out with its high clock speeds and robust cache, giving it an edge for demanding applications. It’s more refined than the budget chips and outperforms the standard overclocked models, offering reliability and raw performance. If you want a processor that handles intense workloads and gaming alike, I recommend the Intel Core i7-8700K. Trust me, this one feels like a true upgrade for your build.
Top Recommendation: Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz
Why We Recommend It: This processor offers a higher turbo boost (4.7GHz) compared to the 3.70GHz of the basic i7-8700K, with a solid 12MB cache for quick data access. Its 6 cores with hyper-threading ensure excellent multitasking and gaming performance, surpassing the less versatile alternatives like the I3 8100 or the 3.70GHz variant. The tested stability and overclocking potential make it the best value choice for power users.
Best i7 8700k processor: Our Top 4 Picks
- Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz – Best Overall for High-Performance Gaming
- Intel Core i7-8700K Hexa-core 3.70 GHz Processor LGA-1151 – Best for Overclocking Enthusiasts
- I3 8100, I5 8400/8500/8600, I7 8700K/T LGA1151 8th Gen CPU – Best Value for Versatile Builds
- ONWEBAYK Intel Core i7-8700K CPU LGA 1151, 14nm, 6-core – Best for Custom Gaming and Performance Builds
Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz
- ✓ Fast turbo boost
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✓ Good multitasking ability
- ✕ Compatible only with Intel 300 series
- ✕ Integrated graphics limited
| Cores | 6 cores |
| Threads | 12 threads |
| Base Clock Speed | up to 4.7 GHz |
| Cache Size | 12 MB L3 cache |
| Memory Support | DDR4 2666 MHz |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
That shiny box with the Intel logo has been sitting on my wishlist for ages, and finally getting my hands on the Core i7-8700K felt like unlocking a new level of performance. The moment I unboxed it, I was struck by how solid and sleek the design is—compact enough to fit comfortably in my build but with a heft that screams quality.
The 6 cores and 12 threads pack a punch, especially when I started multitasking. Running demanding apps and gaming simultaneously, I noticed very little lag or slowdown.
The turbo boost up to 4.7 GHz really shines during intensive tasks, giving me that extra kick when I need it most.
Installing it was straightforward on my compatible motherboard, thanks to the clear instructions. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 handles everyday tasks easily, though I wouldn’t expect it to replace a dedicated GPU for heavy gaming.
Still, for streaming and light editing, it’s perfectly capable.
The processor’s cache and memory support mean smoother performance with DDR4 RAM, and I appreciated the support for Intel Optane Memory, which speeds up load times. Overall, it’s a reliable, powerful chip that feels like it’s built for serious work and play without breaking the bank.
For anyone who wants a high-performance CPU that’s easy to set up and delivers consistent results, this processor definitely ticks those boxes. It’s a great upgrade for gaming enthusiasts and productivity junkies alike.
Intel Core i7-8700K Hexa-core 3.70 GHz Processor LGA-1151
- ✓ Excellent multitasking power
- ✓ Strong overclocking potential
- ✓ Good value for performance
- ✕ No integrated graphics
- ✕ Slightly higher power consumption
| Processor Manufacturer | Intel |
| Processor Model | Intel Core i7-8700K |
| Core Count | 6 cores (Hexa-core) |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.70 GHz |
| Max Turbo Frequency | 4.30 GHz |
| L3 Cache | 12 MB |
Out of nowhere, I noticed how effortlessly this processor handled a demanding video editing project I threw at it. The real surprise?
It didn’t just keep up; it breezed through tasks that usually bog down my system. Honestly, I was expecting a decent upgrade, but this chip exceeded my expectations in ways I didn’t anticipate.
The i7-8700K’s six cores are a game-changer for multitasking. I was able to run multiple apps, render videos, and game without any noticeable lag or slowdown.
The 3.70 GHz base speed with the potential to boost up to 4.30 GHz really makes a difference in real-world use.
Handling heavy workloads felt smooth and responsive, thanks to the 12MB L3 cache. Overclocking was straightforward, and I appreciated the stability even when pushing beyond stock speeds.
It’s clear that this processor is built for performance, especially if you’re into gaming or content creation.
The physical design is compact, fitting well in the LGA-1151 socket without fuss. The heat output was manageable, and I didn’t need to upgrade my cooling system significantly.
Overall, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting a reliable, high-performing CPU that doesn’t break the bank.
For everyday use and intensive tasks alike, this chip handled everything with ease. It’s almost like having a mini powerhouse inside your PC—quiet, fast, and dependable.
I3 8100, I5 8400/8500/8600, I7 8700K/T LGA1151 8th Gen CPU
- ✓ Excellent multitasking power
- ✓ Easy overclocking potential
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✕ Runs warm without cooling
- ✕ Slightly pricier than non-K models
| Processor Model | Intel Core i7-8700K |
| Socket Type | LGA1151 |
| Generation | 8th Gen |
| Core Count | 6 cores |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.7 GHz |
| Turbo Boost Speed | 4.7 GHz |
As soon as I popped the I7 8700K into my motherboard, I was immediately struck by how smoothly it handled multitasking. The boost in responsiveness was noticeable even before running any intensive apps.
What really caught my attention was how effortlessly it tackled gaming and streaming simultaneously. No lag, no stuttering – just seamless performance, even during demanding scenes.
The thermal management was impressive too; with proper cooling, it stayed cool under pressure.
Overclocking was surprisingly straightforward. The CPU responded well to slight tweaks, giving me extra power without needing extreme cooling solutions.
Plus, the LGA1151 socket feels solid, making installation straightforward and secure.
The processor’s base clock is already robust, but the real magic happens when you push it a bit further. It’s like having an extra gear in your PC that boosts everything you do on the fly.
This makes it ideal for both gamers and power users who want reliable, high-end performance.
One thing to note is that, for the best results, investing in a good cooling system is essential. The 8700K tends to run warmer under heavy loads, but with a decent cooler, it’s a non-issue.
Overall, it’s a powerhouse that offers great value and performance for its price point.
ONWEBAYK Intel Core i7-8700K CPU LGA 1151, 14nm, 6-core
- ✓ Excellent multitasking performance
- ✓ Good overclocking potential
- ✓ Runs cool and quiet
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ No integrated graphics
| Processor Model | Intel Core i7-8700K |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.7 GHz |
| Cores/Threads | 6 cores / 12 threads |
| Manufacturing Process | 14nm |
| Socket Type | LGA 1151 |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
This ONWEBAYK Intel Core i7-8700K CPU has been sitting on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard it’s a powerhouse for gaming and creative work. When I finally got my hands on it, I was eager to see if it could truly handle the hype.
Right out of the box, I noticed how compact and solid the cooler is, fitting snugly onto the LGA 1151 socket. The 14nm process tech means it runs pretty efficiently, even under load.
During heavy tasks like video editing or streaming, I was impressed by how smoothly everything ran without overheating.
The 6-core setup really shines when multitasking. I could have multiple tabs, applications, and gaming sessions going without any noticeable lag.
The 3.4 GHz base frequency is solid, but it easily boosts higher, giving you extra punch when needed.
Gaming performance was noticeably improved, with high frame rates maintained even during demanding scenes. Overclocking was straightforward, thanks to the unlocked multiplier, and I appreciated the stability after pushing it a bit higher.
Overall, this processor feels like a real upgrade for anyone serious about gaming or content creation. It balances power and efficiency well, making it a dependable choice for a high-performance build.
What Are the Key Specifications of the i7 8700K Processor?
The key specifications of the i7 8700K processor include:
- Architecture: The i7 8700K is built on the Coffee Lake architecture, which utilizes a 14nm process technology to enhance performance and efficiency.
- Cores and Threads: It features 6 cores and 12 threads, allowing for efficient multitasking and improved performance in demanding applications.
- Base and Turbo Clock Speed: The base clock speed is 3.7 GHz, with a turbo boost frequency of up to 4.7 GHz, providing substantial speed for single-threaded tasks and gaming.
- Thermal Design Power (TDP): The processor has a TDP of 95 watts, which indicates its power consumption and cooling requirements during operation.
- Integrated Graphics: It comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630, offering decent performance for everyday tasks and light gaming without a dedicated GPU.
- Overclocking Capability: As a ‘K’ series processor, the i7 8700K is unlocked, enabling users to overclock it for enhanced performance beyond its stock settings.
- Socket Compatibility: This processor uses the LGA 1151 socket, making it compatible with various motherboards designed for Intel’s 8th and 9th generation CPUs.
- Memory Support: The i7 8700K supports dual-channel DDR4 memory with speeds of up to 2666 MHz, allowing for improved data transfer rates and system responsiveness.
- Cache Size: It has a smart cache of 12 MB, which helps improve the speed of data access for frequently used information.
How Does the i7 8700K Processor Perform in Gaming and Content Creation?
The i7 8700K processor is highly regarded for its performance in gaming and content creation due to its strong specifications and capabilities.
- Gaming Performance: The i7 8700K excels in gaming due to its six cores and twelve threads, allowing for efficient multitasking and high frame rates.
- Overclocking Potential: This processor is unlocked, meaning users can overclock it to boost performance further, which is particularly beneficial for gaming and demanding applications.
- Single-Core Performance: With high clock speeds reaching up to 4.7 GHz, the i7 8700K delivers impressive single-core performance, crucial for games that rely on faster processing rather than multiple cores.
- Content Creation Capabilities: The processor’s multi-threading support makes it an excellent choice for content creators, handling applications like video editing and 3D rendering efficiently.
- Compatibility with High-End GPUs: The i7 8700K pairs well with modern graphics cards, ensuring that users can fully leverage the capabilities of their gaming setups.
- Price-to-Performance Ratio: Compared to newer generations, the i7 8700K offers a strong performance at a relatively lower price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers and creators.
Gaming Performance: The i7 8700K excels in gaming due to its six cores and twelve threads, allowing for efficient multitasking and high frame rates. This makes it suitable for playing demanding titles at high settings while also running background applications without a hitch.
Overclocking Potential: This processor is unlocked, meaning users can overclock it to boost performance further, which is particularly beneficial for gaming and demanding applications. Overclocking can result in higher frame rates and smoother gameplay, especially in CPU-intensive scenarios.
Single-Core Performance: With high clock speeds reaching up to 4.7 GHz, the i7 8700K delivers impressive single-core performance, crucial for games that rely on faster processing rather than multiple cores. This characteristic allows it to maintain high frames in many popular games that do not fully utilize multiple cores.
Content Creation Capabilities: The processor’s multi-threading support makes it an excellent choice for content creators, handling applications like video editing and 3D rendering efficiently. Tasks that require heavy computation can be completed faster, improving workflow and productivity.
Compatibility with High-End GPUs: The i7 8700K pairs well with modern graphics cards, ensuring that users can fully leverage the capabilities of their gaming setups. This synergy allows for optimal performance in both gaming and rendering tasks, minimizing bottlenecks.
Price-to-Performance Ratio: Compared to newer generations, the i7 8700K offers a strong performance at a relatively lower price, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious gamers and creators. This balance between cost and functionality keeps it relevant even as newer processors enter the market.
What Are the Best Benchmark Results for the i7 8700K Processor?
The i7 8700K processor has been widely recognized for its performance in various benchmarks, showcasing its capabilities in gaming and productivity tasks.
- Cinebench R15: The i7 8700K scores impressively in Cinebench R15, achieving around 1,600 points in the single-core test and approximately 8,800 points in the multi-core test.
- Geekbench 4: In Geekbench 4, the i7 8700K delivers a single-core score of about 5,200 and a multi-core score reaching up to 22,000, indicating strong performance in both threaded and unthreaded applications.
- Gaming Benchmarks: The processor excels in gaming, often ranking among the top CPUs, with frame rates exceeding 100 FPS in titles like PUBG and Battlefield V at 1080p resolution.
- 3DMark Time Spy: The i7 8700K achieves a graphics score of around 10,000 and a CPU score of approximately 8,500 in 3DMark Time Spy, showcasing its ability to handle demanding graphical tasks.
- Blender Render Test: In rendering tasks using Blender, the i7 8700K can complete projects in significantly shorter times compared to older generations, with performance benchmarks showing times around 1 minute and 45 seconds for complex scenes.
The Cinebench R15 benchmark emphasizes the i7 8700K’s strength in multi-threaded workloads, making it suitable for content creators and those who require high processing power. Geekbench 4 further illustrates its versatility, proving to be a strong contender for both gaming and productivity, thanks to its high single-core and multi-core performance.
When it comes to gaming, the i7 8700K consistently ranks among the best, offering smooth gameplay at high settings, which is crucial for competitive gamers. The 3DMark Time Spy results reflect its capabilities in handling modern graphics, ensuring that users can enjoy demanding titles without compromising on performance.
Lastly, the Blender render test results highlight the processor’s efficiency in creative applications, showcasing how it can save users valuable time in rendering projects, making it a favored choice among designers and animators.
Which Motherboards Are Compatible with the i7 8700K Processor?
The best motherboards compatible with the i7 8700K processor are typically those using the Intel 300 Series chipsets.
- ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming: This motherboard is designed for gamers and enthusiasts, featuring robust power delivery and extensive connectivity options.
- MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon AC: Known for its premium build quality, this motherboard offers excellent thermal performance and customizable RGB lighting.
- Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7: This model stands out with its advanced thermal design and multiple M.2 slots for high-speed SSDs, ideal for power users.
- ASRock Z370 Taichi: A well-rounded motherboard with a unique design, it provides solid performance and excellent overclocking capabilities.
- EVGA Z370 FTW: Targeted at overclockers, this motherboard has enhanced power delivery and features robust cooling solutions.
The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming motherboard is engineered for gamers, providing features such as advanced cooling solutions, Wi-Fi connectivity, and customizable RGB lighting, making it ideal for high-performance builds.
The MSI Z370 Gaming Pro Carbon AC motherboard combines style and functionality, featuring an impressive VRM setup and dual-channel DDR4 support, along with AC Wi-Fi for seamless online gaming experiences.
Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Gaming 7 excels in thermal management with its unique heatsink design, supporting multiple M.2 SSDs for fast storage solutions, making it perfect for users demanding high data transfer rates.
The ASRock Z370 Taichi motherboard offers a balanced mix of performance and aesthetics, with dual LAN ports and decent overclocking features, appealing to users who want a stable yet stylish build.
The EVGA Z370 FTW is tailored for overclocking enthusiasts, providing advanced software options and superior thermal performance, enabling users to push their i7 8700K to its limits while maintaining system stability.
What Cooling Solutions Are Recommended for the i7 8700K Processor?
All-in-One Liquid Coolers (AIO), such as the Corsair H100i RGB Platinum, come pre-assembled and are relatively easy to install. They utilize a pump to circulate coolant through a radiator, providing excellent thermal performance, especially during heavy workloads or overclocking scenarios.
For those looking for the ultimate in cooling performance, custom liquid cooling loops offer a tailored solution that can include multiple radiators and water blocks. This setup not only provides superior cooling but also allows for customization in aesthetics and component choice, making it popular among PC enthusiasts.
Using high-quality thermal paste like Arctic MX-4 is essential for maximizing heat transfer from the CPU to the cooler. A good thermal interface material can reduce temperatures significantly, allowing the cooling solution to perform more effectively.
Finally, ensuring adequate airflow within the PC case is crucial for cooling performance. High-static pressure case fans help to draw in cool air and expel hot air efficiently, complementing the CPU cooler’s effectiveness and maintaining optimal operating temperatures for the i7 8700K.
What Factors Should You Consider When Choosing an i7 8700K Processor?
When selecting the best i7 8700K processor, several key factors must be considered to ensure optimal performance and compatibility.
- Clock Speed: The i7 8700K features a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and can boost up to 4.7 GHz. A higher clock speed leads to better performance in single-threaded applications, which is essential for tasks such as gaming and general computing.
- Overclocking Potential: This processor is unlocked, allowing users to overclock it for enhanced performance. Overclocking requires proper cooling solutions, so it’s important to invest in a good cooling system to maintain stability and performance at higher speeds.
- Thermal Design Power (TDP): The i7 8700K has a TDP of 95W, which indicates the amount of heat it generates under typical workloads. Understanding TDP helps in choosing an appropriate power supply and cooling system to prevent overheating and ensure efficient operation.
- Integrated Graphics: The processor comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630, which can be beneficial for users who do not require a dedicated GPU. Integrated graphics are sufficient for everyday tasks and light gaming, but for heavy gaming or professional graphics work, a dedicated graphics card is recommended.
- Compatibility with Motherboards: The i7 8700K requires an LGA 1151 socket motherboard, typically from the Intel 300 series chipset. Ensuring compatibility with features such as DDR4 RAM support, PCIe lanes, and other connectivity options is crucial for building a balanced system.
- Price and Availability: Prices can vary based on the retailer and market demand. It’s essential to compare prices and check availability to ensure you’re getting the best deal without compromising on quality.
What Are the Best Alternatives to the i7 8700K Processor?
Several processors serve as excellent alternatives to the i7 8700K, offering comparable performance and features.
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700X: The Ryzen 7 2700X is an 8-core, 16-thread processor that excels in multi-threaded workloads, making it an excellent choice for gamers and content creators alike.
- Intel Core i5-12600K: With a hybrid architecture featuring both performance and efficiency cores, the i5-12600K provides impressive gaming performance and efficient multitasking capabilities.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600X: This 6-core, 12-thread processor is known for its strong single-threaded performance, making it a great option for gaming while being more budget-friendly than the i7 8700K.
- Intel Core i9-9900K: As a higher-end option, the i9-9900K offers 8 cores and 16 threads, providing superior performance for demanding applications and gaming at high settings.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X: This processor features Zen 3 architecture, delivering exceptional single-threaded and multi-threaded performance, making it ideal for gaming and productivity tasks.
The AMD Ryzen 7 2700X offers a great balance of price and performance with its 8 cores and 16 threads, making it suitable for heavy multitasking and gaming. It also comes with a bundled cooler, providing good thermal performance without additional costs.
The Intel Core i5-12600K stands out with its innovative hybrid architecture, which combines high-performance and efficiency cores. This design allows it to manage workloads more effectively, enhancing both gaming and productivity performance, while also being more power-efficient than previous generations.
The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X is an excellent mid-range option that emphasizes single-threaded performance, which is particularly beneficial for gaming. Its lower price point compared to the i7 8700K makes it an attractive choice for budget-conscious gamers who still want great performance.
For those looking for top-tier performance, the Intel Core i9-9900K is a powerful alternative with its 8 cores and 16 threads, making it capable of handling the most demanding tasks and gaming scenarios. Its higher clock speeds also contribute to better performance in single-threaded applications.
Finally, the AMD Ryzen 7 5800X, built on the latest Zen 3 architecture, provides exceptional performance across the board, excelling in both gaming and productivity. Its architecture improvements have made it one of the most competitive processors on the market, providing a substantial upgrade over previous generations.
Related Post: