Overview

The Intel Core i7-8700 8th Gen Processor is a powerful CPU designed to deliver strong performance for both gaming and productivity tasks. Featuring a 6-core, 12-thread architecture, this processor can reach a max turbo frequency of 4.6 GHz, making it suitable for demanding applications. It also supports Intel Optane memory, which helps speed up data access and enhances overall system performance. Compatibility with Intel's 300 Series motherboards ensures that users can easily integrate it into a variety of systems, providing a stable and reliable foundation for high-performance computing.

Features & Benefits

With a base clock of 3.2 GHz and the ability to boost up to 4.6 GHz, this Intel processor delivers impressive speed for multitasking and gaming. Its Hyper-Threading technology allows for efficient parallel processing, making it ideal for users who require fast data handling. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 provides a solid solution for light gaming and video playback, while the 12 MB cache reduces latency and improves overall performance. Additionally, the processor’s support for Intel Optane memory further optimizes storage speeds, ensuring smooth operation even with large file transfers.

Best For

This i7-8700 is an excellent choice for gamers and content creators seeking top-notch performance. The high clock speed and multi-core capabilities make it perfect for demanding applications like video editing and 3D rendering. It’s also well-suited for users upgrading their PC for a balance of gaming and everyday productivity tasks. Those building or upgrading systems with Intel 300 Series motherboards will find this CPU to be a solid, reliable choice that maximizes their system’s potential, whether for work or leisure. It strikes a balance between power and efficiency for most users.

User Feedback

Many users have praised this 8th Gen CPU for its smooth performance in both gaming and professional environments. Reviewers often highlight its ability to handle demanding applications, such as video editing software and modern games, without lag or stutter. However, some have reported that the processor can generate significant heat under heavy load, necessitating adequate cooling. Despite this, its overall value for users upgrading their PCs or building new systems has earned it favorable feedback, with many appreciating its speed, reliability, and ability to multitask effectively.

Pros

  • This processor delivers smooth performance for both gaming and productivity tasks.
  • High turbo frequency of 4.6 GHz allows for fast performance during demanding applications.
  • Intel Hyper-Threading technology enables efficient multitasking without noticeable lag.
  • The 12 MB cache provides faster data access, boosting overall system responsiveness.
  • Supports Intel Optane memory for enhanced storage speed and improved load times.
  • Ideal for users upgrading their PC for both general productivity and gaming.
  • Compatible with Intel 300 Series motherboards, ensuring easy integration into existing systems.

Cons

  • The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 is insufficient for high-end gaming or 3D rendering.
  • Some users report occasional overheating when under heavy workloads or extended use.
  • Lack of significant performance improvements over previous generation CPUs for budget-conscious users.
  • Higher power consumption under load, which may impact energy efficiency for some setups.
  • Not the best option for users who require extreme performance in multi-GPU or high-end tasks.
  • Some users find that it doesn’t offer as much value compared to newer processors in the market.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews from multiple languages and platforms, the scores for the Intel Core i7-8700 8th Gen Processor reflect the balance of strengths and occasional concerns highlighted by users worldwide. All feedback was carefully filtered for authenticity, with spam, duplicated, and incentivized reviews excluded. While users praise the processor's performance, there are mentions of occasional heat under heavy loads, which is reflected in the scores across different categories.

Performance
92%
Many users are pleased with the overall performance of this Intel processor, particularly in handling both demanding gaming and productivity tasks. Its high turbo frequency and efficient parallel processing ensure smooth operation even during heavy workloads, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of uses.
Some users have noted that the processor’s performance can be affected by heavy workloads, especially in sustained tasks, where the system occasionally struggles to maintain peak speeds. This can result in minor slowdowns under extreme usage scenarios.
Gaming Performance
90%
For gamers, this CPU provides a noticeable improvement in gaming performance, handling modern titles with ease. The high clock speeds and multi-core support make it ideal for fast-paced gaming, delivering smooth frame rates without stuttering or lag.
While gaming performance is generally strong, a few users have mentioned that the integrated graphics, while decent for light gaming, may not handle more demanding AAA titles as well as dedicated GPUs. Those looking for the best possible gaming performance might prefer a discrete graphics card.
Multitasking Capability
91%
The i7-8700 excels at multitasking, thanks to its 12 threads and Hyper-Threading technology. Users appreciate the smoothness with which it runs multiple applications simultaneously, whether for productivity tasks, streaming, or light content creation.
Some users have reported that while multitasking is efficient, performance may dip when handling extremely resource-heavy applications like video editing or 3D rendering, especially with minimal RAM or lower-end configurations.
Compatibility with Motherboards
87%
The wide compatibility with Intel 300 Series motherboards is a key benefit for users building or upgrading their systems. This makes it easy to integrate the i7-8700 into existing setups without requiring major adjustments or additional components.
A few users found that certain motherboards needed BIOS updates to ensure proper compatibility, which may cause inconvenience for those new to PC building or upgrading their systems.
Value for Money
88%
Users feel this Intel processor offers a solid balance between price and performance, delivering a high-quality product without breaking the bank. Its ability to handle both gaming and productivity tasks efficiently makes it a strong contender in the mid-range processor market.
Despite offering great value, some buyers noted that the price could be slightly higher compared to other similar processors on the market, especially when considering newer models with better price-to-performance ratios.
Thermals
72%
28%
In general use, this processor runs cool and quiet, especially when paired with efficient cooling solutions. Many users report that under typical conditions, it maintains a steady temperature without noticeable throttling.
However, under heavy load, such as during prolonged gaming sessions or intensive tasks, some users experienced elevated temperatures. Without proper cooling, this can lead to thermal throttling, reducing overall performance.
Ease of Installation
85%
Installing this processor is generally straightforward for users with experience in building PCs. The compatibility with Intel’s LGA1151 socket ensures that it fits well in most systems without requiring special considerations.
For newcomers, installation might be slightly challenging, especially with ensuring proper thermal paste application and securing the CPU in place without damaging the delicate pins. Additionally, those unfamiliar with BIOS settings may require extra time for setup.
Power Efficiency
80%
20%
The i7-8700 offers decent power efficiency, especially for a processor with its performance capabilities. Users have found that it balances energy use well while maintaining impressive speeds during moderate tasks.
However, some users have noted that the CPU can consume significant power under load, leading to higher electricity costs in systems that run demanding applications constantly. This may be a concern for those focused on energy efficiency in their builds.
Reliability
90%
Many buyers report that the i7-8700 is a reliable workhorse, capable of handling a wide range of tasks without experiencing failures or crashes. Its stable performance over time is one of the main reasons users recommend it.
Though generally reliable, a few users mentioned rare instances of system instability during prolonged high-load use, especially when overclocked or paired with lower-quality cooling solutions.
Cache Performance
89%
The 12 MB cache ensures faster data access and minimizes delays in tasks like gaming, rendering, or heavy multitasking. Users appreciate the speed boost, especially for applications that rely on quick data retrieval.
There were occasional mentions of the cache not being fully utilized in certain lower-end applications, leading to minimal performance differences compared to processors with smaller caches. However, this was not a widespread concern.
Support for Intel Optane
83%
For those looking to upgrade their storage setup, the i7-8700’s support for Intel Optane memory allows for faster access speeds, which is a great benefit for users who need quick load times for large files or applications.
However, some users felt that the support for Intel Optane wasn’t as useful for everyone, as it requires specific configurations and additional hardware, which could increase the cost of the overall system build.
Graphics Performance
78%
22%
The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 offers sufficient graphical performance for basic tasks like video playback and light gaming. For users who don’t need a dedicated GPU, it provides a solid alternative for everyday use.
That said, the integrated graphics fall short for more demanding gaming or professional graphic work. Users seeking high-end visual performance typically need a dedicated GPU for optimal results.

Suitable for:

The Intel Core i7-8700 8th Gen Processor is an excellent choice for gamers and content creators who demand high clock speeds and multi-core performance. With a turbo frequency of up to 4.6 GHz, this CPU handles both gaming and demanding multitasking scenarios with ease. It’s ideal for users upgrading their PCs for enhanced productivity or gaming, as it provides the power needed for seamless performance in modern titles and applications. Additionally, tech enthusiasts building systems with Intel 300 Series motherboards will find this processor compatible and easy to integrate into their setups. Professionals working on tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, or streaming will also benefit from its speed and multitasking capabilities, especially when combined with Intel Optane memory for faster storage access.

Not suitable for:

While the Intel Core i7-8700 8th Gen Processor excels in many areas, it may not be the best fit for users focused on extreme gaming or high-end graphics performance. Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 is suitable for light gaming and video playback, but those seeking to run AAA games at the highest settings will need a dedicated graphics card. Additionally, users who prioritize power efficiency may find the processor’s performance under load to be a bit taxing, as it can draw significant power when handling demanding tasks, leading to higher energy consumption. Some buyers may also find occasional heat buildup under heavy loads a concern, particularly if they don’t invest in adequate cooling solutions.

Specifications

  • Cores: 6 cores providing strong parallel processing capabilities for demanding workloads.
  • Threads: 12 threads, enabling efficient multitasking and handling of multiple simultaneous processes.
  • Base Clock Speed: Base clock speed of 3.2 GHz, ensuring stable and responsive performance for general tasks.
  • Max Turbo Frequency: Max turbo frequency of 4.6 GHz for enhanced performance during intensive tasks like gaming and rendering.
  • Cache: 12 MB cache for quicker data retrieval, improving overall processing speed and responsiveness.
  • Graphics: Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630, suitable for light gaming and smooth video playback.
  • Socket Type: Supports LGA1151 socket, compatible with Intel 300 Series motherboards.
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): Thermal Design Power of 65W, ensuring energy-efficient operation under typical usage conditions.
  • Hyper-Threading: Supports Intel Hyper-Threading technology for improved multitasking performance.
  • Intel Optane Memory Support: Supports Intel Optane memory for enhanced storage speed and faster access to frequently used data.
  • Architecture: Built on Intel's 8th generation microarchitecture for improved performance and efficiency.
  • Instruction Set: 64-bit instruction set, enabling efficient processing of modern applications and systems.
  • Process Technology: Manufactured using a 14nm process for improved performance and energy efficiency.
  • Performance Boost: Automatic performance boost under heavy workloads, reaching up to 4.6 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Technology.
  • Compatibility: Compatible with Intel 300 Series motherboards, ideal for system upgrades or building new setups.
  • Memory Support: Supports DDR4-2666 memory, offering fast data transfer rates for demanding applications.
  • Overclocking: Non-overclockable processor; designed for stable performance without the option to increase clock speeds.

FAQ

The Intel Core i7-8700 is a 6-core, 12-thread processor with a max turbo frequency of 4.6 GHz. It supports Intel Optane memory for faster storage and is compatible with Intel 300 Series motherboards, making it a solid choice for gamers and content creators looking for performance.

The Intel i7-8700 is compatible with motherboards that support the LGA1151 socket and Intel 300 Series chipsets. Ensure your motherboard is part of this series to ensure proper installation and performance.

The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 is designed for light gaming and basic video playback, but it's not powerful enough for demanding 3D gaming or high-end graphics workloads. For better gaming performance, pairing it with a dedicated GPU is recommended.

Intel Optane memory enhances storage performance by providing faster access to frequently used data. When combined with the i7-8700, it can speed up boot times, improve application load speeds, and provide a smoother experience in data-heavy tasks like video editing.

No, the Intel i7-8700 is not an unlocked processor, meaning it cannot be overclocked. For overclocking, you'd need to look at processors like the i7-8700K, which is designed for that purpose.

Thanks to its 6 cores and 12 threads, the Intel i7-8700 excels at multitasking, handling demanding applications, and running multiple programs simultaneously without significant lag. It's ideal for content creators and professionals working with resource-intensive software.

The Intel Core i7-8700 has a thermal design power (TDP) of 65W, which is relatively efficient for its performance level. However, the power consumption can spike under heavy workloads, so make sure your cooling system can handle it during peak usage.

Yes, if you have an Intel 300 Series motherboard with an LGA1151 socket, upgrading to the i7-8700 should be straightforward. Make sure your power supply, cooling solution, and other components are compatible to support this processor.

Some users report that the i7-8700 can run hot under heavy loads, especially during extended gaming or video rendering sessions. Ensuring proper airflow and using a quality cooling solution can help manage the temperature effectively.

The i7-8700 offers a significant performance boost over older processors, especially in multi-threaded applications and gaming, thanks to its 6 cores and high turbo frequency. It’s a great upgrade for users looking for faster performance without moving to a more expensive i9 model.