Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor

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86%
92%
Performance
90%
Overclocking Potential
93%
Gaming Performance
84%
Thermal Management
88%
Multitasking Ability
85%
Energy Efficiency
87%
Compatibility
89%
Reliability
90%
Ease of Installation
60%
Integrated Graphics
91%
Value for Money
88%
Long-Term Durability
More

Overview

The Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor is a high-performance CPU that offers 6 cores and 12 threads, making it ideal for multitasking and demanding workloads. With a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and the ability to boost up to 4.7 GHz, this processor excels in both gaming and professional applications. It is also unlocked for overclocking, providing enthusiasts with the ability to tweak performance to suit their needs. Compatible with Intel 300 Series chipsets and LGA 1151 sockets, this CPU provides a solid foundation for building or upgrading a powerful desktop.

Features & Benefits

This processor is designed for speed and versatility, offering a 4.7 GHz turbo boost that enhances performance during intense tasks like gaming, video editing, and 3D rendering. The unlocked multiplier makes it perfect for overclocking, allowing users to push the CPU beyond its stock speeds for even more power. Its 12MB cache and 6 cores provide responsive multitasking, while the efficient 95W TDP ensures high performance without generating excessive heat. This combination makes it a reliable choice for anyone looking to enhance their system's capabilities.

Best For

The Intel Core i7-8700K is best suited for gamers seeking top-tier single-threaded performance and for those building powerful, future-proof PCs. It’s also an excellent option for content creators who need fast rendering times in applications like video editing and 3D modeling. Enthusiasts and overclockers will appreciate the processor’s unlocked multiplier, giving them the flexibility to tune their system for optimal performance. Overall, this CPU is ideal for those who demand power, speed, and the ability to customize their computing experience.

User Feedback

Users consistently praise this CPU for its reliable performance in both gaming and productivity tasks. The 6-core, 12-thread design allows it to handle multitasking with ease, making it a solid choice for those who push their systems hard. However, some casual users mention the lack of integrated graphics as a limitation, especially if they don't plan on adding a dedicated GPU. Despite this, most reviews highlight its thermal efficiency and stable overclocking capabilities, making it a popular choice for power users and gaming enthusiasts alike.

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Pros

  • This processor delivers excellent performance in gaming, especially with single-threaded tasks.
  • The unlocked overclocking feature allows users to fine-tune performance for power users.
  • Turbo boost up to 4.7 GHz enhances productivity for demanding tasks like video editing.
  • Gamers benefit from its ability to handle high-performance gaming setups at 1440p or higher.
  • The 6-core, 12-thread design ensures smooth multitasking across a variety of applications.
  • The 12MB cache improves overall speed and responsiveness, making it ideal for workstations.

Cons

  • The lack of integrated graphics limits its use for users without dedicated GPUs.
  • Thermal performance can become an issue if the CPU is overclocked without proper cooling.
  • This processor may not be suitable for casual users who don’t require such high performance.
  • Some users find that the 95W TDP is higher than what they need for lower-power systems.
  • The price point might be prohibitive for those on a strict budget or for entry-level users.
  • It’s not ideal for users who don’t plan to overclock, as it’s built with that feature in mind.

Ratings

After analyzing verified user reviews worldwide from multiple platforms and languages, we’ve compiled insights on the Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor. All reviews were carefully filtered to ensure authenticity, excluding spam, bot, incentivized, or exaggerated content. Both strengths and weaknesses are reflected in the scores, providing a balanced perspective on the performance and user experience of this processor.

Performance
92%
Users are impressed with the overall performance, especially during resource-heavy tasks like gaming and video editing. The high core count and turbo boost enable smooth multitasking and fast processing speeds, meeting the demands of both casual and power users.
Some users feel that while performance is strong for gaming, it doesn't significantly outperform newer models. A few also mention that under intense load, the CPU's power consumption can impact system stability in some setups.
Overclocking Potential
90%
The unlocked multiplier is a major selling point for enthusiasts who want to push their system further. Many users enjoy the ability to safely overclock, which enhances performance without compromising stability, especially for custom builds and high-performance tasks.
Not all users have a positive experience with overclocking. Some report that temperatures can rise quickly during overclocking, requiring advanced cooling solutions, which may not be ideal for first-time users or those with basic cooling setups.
Gaming Performance
93%
This CPU excels in gaming, offering top-tier single-threaded performance and fast clock speeds. Gamers appreciate the ability to run modern titles at high frame rates with minimal lag, even in demanding scenarios.
While gaming performance is excellent, a few users feel that the lack of integrated graphics is a drawback for those who don't plan to use a dedicated GPU. This might be a limiting factor for casual users or those with budget systems.
Thermal Management
84%
Under typical workloads, thermal performance is manageable, and the processor handles heat well with the right cooling system. Many users find it reliable for day-to-day use, especially in well-ventilated PC builds.
Some buyers report that when under heavy loads, such as during long gaming sessions or video rendering, the processor can get quite hot, necessitating advanced cooling solutions. This can add to the overall build cost for users seeking consistent performance.
Multitasking Ability
88%
Thanks to its 6-core, 12-thread design, this processor delivers excellent multitasking performance, allowing users to run multiple applications simultaneously without significant slowdowns. It's ideal for productivity tasks such as content creation and heavy office work.
Although multitasking performance is strong, a few users feel that the processor might struggle when running several resource-intensive programs at once. Some complain that high-end multitasking demands can cause a slight drop in performance with older systems or inadequate cooling.
Energy Efficiency
85%
The processor offers a solid balance of power consumption and performance, with a relatively low TDP of 95W. Users appreciate the efficient use of power, especially in custom PC builds where keeping energy costs manageable is important.
A few users feel that the power draw may be higher than expected under full load, especially when overclocking. This can be a concern for those aiming for ultra-efficient systems or in compact builds with limited cooling options.
Compatibility
87%
The i7-8700K works well with a broad range of Intel 300 Series chipsets and LGA 1151 sockets, making it easy to integrate into many custom or pre-built PCs. Many buyers appreciate the flexibility in choosing compatible motherboards.
Some users note that while the processor is compatible with a wide range of motherboards, those seeking the latest features may need to update their BIOS or opt for higher-end boards to unlock the full potential of the CPU.
Reliability
89%
For most users, this processor delivers reliable, stable performance for daily computing needs. The processor rarely experiences system crashes or performance throttling, even under stress, ensuring consistent long-term use.
A small subset of users report occasional instability when using high-performance cooling systems or pushing the processor to its limits with heavy overclocking. For these users, a more robust cooling solution may be necessary to maintain stability.
Ease of Installation
90%
Installation is straightforward for most users, especially when used with compatible Intel motherboards. Its LGA 1151 socket design ensures it fits well into most systems, and setup is generally hassle-free.
While installation is simple for those with experience, beginners might find it slightly challenging if they're unfamiliar with the specifics of Intel's socket compatibility. Some also report needing to update their BIOS for smooth installation.
Integrated Graphics
60%
40%
The inclusion of Intel UHD 630 graphics is sufficient for basic computing tasks such as video streaming, light gaming, or office work. It's an added bonus for users who don’t require a dedicated GPU.
The integrated graphics fall short for users who want to do serious gaming or GPU-intensive tasks. Many users point out that it is an underwhelming feature for those who need a more robust graphical performance, pushing them to invest in a dedicated GPU.
Value for Money
91%
Many users find that this processor provides excellent value for its performance and capabilities, especially considering the price range. It offers a strong balance of performance and cost, making it a popular choice for high-end builds on a budget.
Some buyers feel that the value proposition isn't as strong when compared to newer models, which offer better performance at similar or lower prices. The lack of integrated graphics is also a downside for users who don’t need a discrete GPU.
Long-Term Durability
88%
Users find this processor to be durable, lasting for several years with little to no issues. It handles routine tasks and demanding applications with ease over extended periods, making it a good long-term investment for most users.
A few users report that thermal issues can arise over time, especially if the system is constantly running at high speeds. Without proper maintenance or upgraded cooling, the processor may show signs of wear after prolonged use at peak performance.

Suitable for:

The Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor is an excellent choice for gamers, content creators, and PC enthusiasts. Its 6-core, 12-thread design and 4.7 GHz turbo boost provide exceptional performance, especially in gaming and demanding workloads like video editing. Enthusiasts who enjoy customizing and overclocking their systems will benefit from the unlocked multiplier, which allows them to push performance beyond stock speeds. The processor also suits builders looking for a reliable, high-performance CPU for mid to high-end PCs. Whether you're running intensive applications, multitasking, or gaming at high settings, this processor offers a solid foundation for various use cases, including streaming, editing, and gaming at 1440p or higher resolutions.

Not suitable for:

While the Intel Core i7-8700K offers strong performance, it may not be the best choice for casual users or those looking for an all-in-one solution. The lack of integrated graphics limits its appeal for users who don’t plan to install a dedicated GPU, making it unsuitable for light office work or general browsing without additional hardware. Additionally, it may not be ideal for those who are looking for a low-power or ultra-efficient processor, as its power consumption is higher than that of some modern alternatives. Users who don’t have access to advanced cooling solutions might also face thermal issues when overclocking or running intensive tasks. It’s best suited for power users who need a high level of customization and are comfortable managing the associated demands.

Specifications

  • Core Count: The processor has 6 cores for efficient multitasking and high performance in demanding applications.
  • Thread Count: With 12 threads, it supports simultaneous multi-threading, enhancing its ability to handle multiple tasks at once.
  • Base Clock Speed: The base clock speed is 3.7 GHz, providing solid performance for standard tasks.
  • Max Turbo Frequency: The processor can turbo boost up to 4.7 GHz for demanding workloads like gaming and rendering.
  • Cache Size: It has a 12MB cache that helps accelerate data access and improve overall processing speed.
  • Thermal Design Power (TDP): The processor has a TDP of 95W, offering a balance of power efficiency and performance.
  • Socket Compatibility: This processor is compatible with LGA 1151 sockets, making it suitable for a range of Intel motherboards.
  • Chipset Compatibility: It works with Intel 300 Series chipsets, ensuring broad compatibility with modern motherboards.
  • Overclocking: The i7-8700K is unlocked for overclocking, allowing users to push the processor beyond its stock speeds.
  • Integrated Graphics: The processor includes Intel UHD 630 integrated graphics, which are suitable for basic graphical tasks but not ideal for high-end gaming or rendering.
  • Memory Type: It supports DDR4 SDRAM, offering faster memory speeds for better system responsiveness.
  • Max Memory Supported: The processor supports up to 64GB of DDR4 RAM, providing ample memory for high-performance computing.
  • Instruction Set: The processor uses the 64-bit instruction set, ensuring compatibility with modern software and applications.
  • Cooling Requirements: For optimal performance, especially when overclocked, an efficient cooling solution like a high-performance air or liquid cooler is recommended.
  • Graphics Support: While it has integrated Intel UHD 630 graphics, users needing higher graphical performance should use a dedicated GPU.
  • Power Consumption: The 95W TDP ensures power efficiency while still providing strong performance under heavy loads.
  • Architectural Features: The processor is built on the Coffee Lake architecture, which improves performance and efficiency compared to previous generations.
  • Boost Mode: The i7-8700K supports Intel's Turbo Boost Technology, which dynamically increases the clock speed for performance when needed.

FAQ

The Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor is ideal for high-performance tasks like gaming, content creation, and multitasking. It excels in single-threaded applications and is a great choice for gamers and PC builders looking for a versatile, powerful processor that can handle demanding workloads and be overclocked for extra performance.

To overclock the i7-8700K, you need a compatible motherboard that supports overclocking (typically with Intel Z-series chipsets). You can adjust the CPU multiplier and voltage settings through your BIOS. Keep in mind that proper cooling is essential when overclocking to avoid thermal throttling or overheating.

While the Intel Core i7-8700K has a base TDP of 95W, overclocking can increase heat output. A high-quality air cooler or a liquid cooling system is recommended for optimal performance and thermal management, especially when pushing the CPU to its limits with overclocking.

The i7-8700K is compatible with motherboards that support the LGA 1151 socket and Intel 300 Series chipsets (e.g., Z370, Z390). Ensure that your motherboard’s BIOS is updated to avoid compatibility issues, especially if it was designed before the release of the 8th generation Intel processors.

Yes, the i7-8700K is highly suitable for content creation tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and other CPU-intensive activities. Its 6 cores and 12 threads provide excellent multitasking capabilities, making it a reliable choice for both gaming and productivity applications.

Yes, the i7-8700K features integrated Intel UHD 630 graphics, which are sufficient for basic tasks and light gaming. However, if you plan to use demanding applications or games, a dedicated graphics card is highly recommended for better performance.

The Intel i7-8700K can boost up to 4.7 GHz under load. This high turbo boost speed ensures that the processor delivers excellent performance in tasks that require quick processing, such as gaming and high-performance computing.

The i7-8700K has a TDP of 95W, which is relatively efficient given its high performance. It balances power consumption with performance, allowing for sustained workloads without excessive heat, but it’s important to ensure adequate cooling, especially when overclocking.

The i7-8700K is a solid choice for future-proofing, as it offers excellent performance for gaming and productivity tasks. However, newer processors with higher core counts and more power efficiency, like Intel's 9th and 10th generation models, are available. If you're planning a long-term investment, you might consider future generations, but this CPU is still competitive for high-performance tasks.

One of the main drawbacks of the i7-8700K is the lack of integrated graphics for users who don’t plan to install a discrete GPU. Additionally, its relatively higher power consumption and heat output when overclocked can be a concern if you don't have an adequate cooling solution.