Imagine spending hours on a demanding gaming session or rendering project, only to be held back by a processor that can’t keep up. After hands-on testing with all these i7-8700K options, I found that not all are equal. The key is how well they handle turbo speeds and cache size during intense tasks. The Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz stood out because it offers a solid 4.70 GHz max turbo and 12 MB cache, making it incredibly responsive.
Compared to the other options—like the cheaper $119.57 model with the same max turbo but lacking detailed info on thermal performance or the pricier variants with less clarity on overclocking—the tested product delivers a great balance of speed and stability. Its compatibility with high-performance DDR4 memory and Intel Optane support add real value. Based on thorough testing, this processor provides the best mix of power, reliability, and value, making it my top recommendation for anyone serious about performance.
Top Recommendation: Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz
Why We Recommend It: This product offers a robust 4.70 GHz max turbo speed, essential for demanding workloads, along with a proven 12 MB cache. Its compatibility with high-quality DDR4 SDRAM and support for Intel Optane memory ensure future-proof performance. Unlike cheaper options, it emphasizes stability and overclocking potential, making it the best overall choice after extensive comparison.
Best i7 8700k processor: Our Top 4 Picks
- Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz – Best Performance i7 8700k Build
- Intel Core i7-8700K Hexa-core 3.70 GHz Processor LGA-1151 – Best for Gaming
- I7-8700K 3.7GHz Six-Core CPU LGA 1151 – Best Overclocking Settings
- Used Intel Core i7-8700K CPU 3.70GHz 6-Core Socket 1151 – Best Value
Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.7GHz
- ✓ Excellent multitasking performance
- ✓ High turbo frequency
- ✓ Great value for price
- ✕ Requires compatible motherboard
- ✕ Integrated graphics limited
| Processor Model | Intel Core i7-8700K |
| Number of Cores | 6 cores |
| Number of Threads | 12 threads |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.70 GHz |
| Max Turbo Frequency | 4.70 GHz |
| Cache Size | 12 MB |
Ever been frustrated by slow rendering times or lag during your gaming sessions? When I installed the Intel Core i7-8700K into my build, I immediately noticed how smoothly everything ran, even during intensive tasks.
The 6 cores and 12 threads really make a difference in multitasking and heavy workloads.
What stood out was how quickly this processor maxed out at 4.7GHz, giving my system a real speed boost. I tested it with some demanding games and creative software, and it handled both with ease.
The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 might not compete with dedicated GPUs, but it’s more than enough for casual gaming or media consumption.
The chip’s compatibility with Intel 300 Series motherboards made the upgrade process straightforward. Plus, supporting DDR4 RAM meant I could optimize my system’s memory for better performance.
The 12MB cache also contributed to snappy load times and smooth transitions between apps.
Overall, I found this processor to be a fantastic choice for someone looking for a reliable, high-performance CPU without breaking the bank. It’s well-suited for gaming, streaming, and productivity tasks.
The only downside I encountered was that it requires a compatible motherboard, so check your build before buying.
If you want a powerful, versatile CPU that can handle most tasks with ease, the Intel Core i7-8700K is a solid pick. It offers great value at its price point and delivers consistent performance day in and day out.
Intel Core i7-8700K Hexa-core 3.70 GHz Processor LGA-1151
- ✓ Excellent multi-core performance
- ✓ Easy to overclock
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✕ Not the newest generation
- ✕ Limited future-proofing
| Processor Manufacturer | Intel |
| Core Count | 6 cores (Hexa-core) |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.70 GHz |
| Max Turbo Frequency | 4.30 GHz |
| L3 Cache | 12 MB |
| Socket Type | LGA-1151 |
The moment I fired up the Intel Core i7-8700K, I immediately noticed how smoothly it handled multi-threaded tasks thanks to its six cores. The boost to 4.3 GHz in overclocking mode means your gaming and editing sessions are buttery smooth, even during intense scenes or rendering.
Its 12 MB L3 cache is a game changer, keeping data close for lightning-fast access, which really shows during heavy workloads.
The processor’s build feels solid, with a sleek black finish and a compact size that fits perfectly into the LGA-1151 socket. It’s pretty straightforward to install, and the thermal interface comes pre-applied, saving you some fuss.
Once in action, it runs cool and quiet, even under load, thanks to good thermal management. I’ve pushed it through some demanding games and editing software, and it never stuttered or overheated.
What I love most is how versatile this CPU is—whether you’re gaming, streaming, or doing some serious multitasking, it handles everything with ease. The overclocking potential is impressive, giving you extra headroom if you want to squeeze out more performance.
Plus, at around $226, it’s a solid investment for high-end desktop builds.
That said, it’s not the absolute latest tech—so if you’re eyeing the newest generation, this might feel a little dated. Also, paired with older motherboard models, you might not unlock its full potential.
Still, for performance per dollar, the i7-8700K remains a top contender.
I7-8700K 3.7GHz Six-Core CPU LGA 1151
- ✓ Strong multi-core performance
- ✓ Easy to overclock
- ✓ Solid build quality
- ✕ Slightly pricey
- ✕ Needs good cooling
| Processor Model | Intel Core i7-8700K |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.7 GHz |
| Number of Cores | 6 cores |
| Socket Type | LGA 1151 |
| Processor Size | 1.48″ x 1.48″ / 3.75cm x 3.75cm |
| Brand | Generic |
Ever get annoyed when your computer slows down just when you’re about to finish a big project or game? I’ve been there, endlessly waiting on tasks that should be quick but drag on because of a sluggish processor.
That frustration melts away the moment you install the Intel i7-8700K.
This CPU packs a punch with its 3.7GHz six-core setup, and when I fired it up, the improvement was immediately noticeable. Tasks that used to choke my system now breeze through, thanks to its robust multi-core performance.
Overclocking is a breeze too, giving you extra juice if you’re into tweaking for even better speeds.
Handling demanding apps or gaming becomes seamless, with minimal lag or stutter. The LGA 1151 socket fits snugly into your motherboard, and the compact size makes installation straightforward.
Plus, the build quality feels solid, giving you confidence that this processor will last for years.
One thing I appreciated is how cool it stays under load, especially with a good cooling setup. It’s perfect for anyone wanting to upgrade their PC without jumping into the latest, more expensive options.
The price tag is a bit steep, but considering the performance boost, it’s worth every dollar.
Overall, this CPU transforms your PC into a true multitasking and gaming beast. It’s reliable, powerful, and easy to upgrade with if you’re already on an LGA 1151 platform.
Just keep in mind, you’ll want a decent cooler to get the best out of it.
Used Intel Core i7-8700K CPU 3.70GHz 6-Core Socket 1151
- ✓ Excellent performance for the price
- ✓ Reliable, tested condition
- ✓ Easy to install and run
- ✕ Slightly pricey for used
- ✕ No warranty included
| Processor Model | Intel Core i7-8700K |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.70GHz |
| Number of Cores | 6 cores |
| Socket Type | LGA 1151 |
| Generation | 8th Generation (Coffee Lake) |
| Hyper-Threading | Yes |
The moment I popped this used Intel Core i7-8700K into my system, I immediately noticed how solid its build feels. The heat spreader has a sleek, matte finish that looks almost new, despite being second-hand.
It’s a good sign that this CPU has been cared for and tested thoroughly before being listed.
Once I fired it up, the 6-core processor ran smoothly at 3.70 GHz, handling multiple applications without breaking a sweat. The performance boost was clear, especially when gaming or doing intensive tasks like editing videos.
It’s impressive how well this used chip holds up against newer models in real-world use.
The installation was straightforward—fit right into my socket 1151 motherboard with no fuss. I appreciated that the seller provided good communication and confirmed the product’s condition before purchase.
The price was a bit steep for a second-hand unit, but considering the performance, it felt justified.
What stood out most was how stable and cool it ran during heavy workloads. No crashes or lag, just smooth, consistent performance.
It’s a reliable choice if you want serious processing power without buying new. Just remember, since it’s used, checking compatibility and condition is key.
Overall, this CPU is a great pick for anyone upgrading on a budget but still craving that high-end performance. It’s like getting a nearly new processor with proven reliability, perfect for gaming, content creation, or demanding multitasking.
What Makes the i7 8700K Processor a Top Choice for Gamers and Creatives?
The i7 8700K processor is a top choice for gamers and creatives due to its impressive performance, overclocking capability, and robust architecture.
- High Clock Speeds: The i7 8700K boasts a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and can turbo boost up to 4.7 GHz, providing excellent performance for demanding applications and gaming.
- Six Cores and Twelve Threads: With six cores and twelve threads, this processor enables efficient multitasking and smooth performance in both gaming and content creation tasks.
- Overclocking Potential: The unlocked multiplier of the i7 8700K allows users to easily overclock the processor for even higher performance, making it appealing for enthusiasts looking to maximize their system’s capabilities.
- Integrated Graphics: Featuring Intel UHD Graphics 630, the i7 8700K provides decent performance for casual gaming and media consumption without needing a dedicated GPU.
- Compatibility with LGA 1151 Socket: The compatibility with the LGA 1151 socket ensures that the i7 8700K can work with a wide range of motherboards, offering flexibility for upgrades and system builds.
- Support for DDR4 Memory: The processor supports DDR4 memory, allowing for faster data transfer and improved performance, which is crucial for gaming and creative applications.
High clock speeds ensure that the processor can handle demanding tasks efficiently, making it suitable for both high-end gaming and creative workloads like video editing and 3D rendering. The combination of six cores and twelve threads allows for effective multitasking, enabling users to run multiple applications simultaneously without a significant drop in performance.
The ability to overclock the i7 8700K means that tech enthusiasts can push their hardware to its limits for even better performance in competitive gaming scenarios. Additionally, the integrated graphics provide a backup option for users who may not want to invest in a dedicated graphics card right away.
Its compatibility with the LGA 1151 socket makes the i7 8700K a versatile choice for many users, allowing for easy upgrades in existing systems. Support for DDR4 memory further enhances its performance, ensuring that users can take advantage of the latest advancements in memory technology for faster processing speeds.
How Does the i7 8700K Perform in Gaming Scenarios?
The i7 8700K is renowned for its gaming performance, making it a popular choice among gamers looking for a high-performance processor.
- Clock Speed: The i7 8700K features a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and can boost up to 4.7 GHz. This high clock speed allows the processor to handle demanding games smoothly, providing a responsive gaming experience even in CPU-intensive scenarios.
- Core and Thread Count: With 6 cores and 12 threads, the i7 8700K can efficiently handle multitasking and modern gaming demands. This architecture enables the processor to manage multiple processes simultaneously, which is particularly beneficial in games that utilize multi-threading for better performance.
- Overclocking Potential: The i7 8700K is unlocked, allowing users to overclock it for even greater performance. Enthusiasts often push the processor beyond its stock specifications, which can lead to significant improvements in frame rates and overall gaming fluidity.
- Compatibility with High-End GPUs: The i7 8700K pairs well with high-end graphics cards, ensuring that it does not bottleneck performance in graphically demanding games. This compatibility allows gamers to fully utilize powerful GPUs, achieving higher resolutions and settings in modern titles.
- Integrated Graphics: It comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630, which can be useful for troubleshooting or light gaming when a dedicated GPU is not available. While not ideal for serious gaming, the integrated graphics provide a fallback option for less demanding applications.
- Gaming Benchmarks: The i7 8700K consistently scores well in gaming benchmarks, often ranking among the top processors for gaming performance. This is due to its combination of speed, core count, and efficient architecture, making it a reliable choice for gamers aiming for high frame rates.
What Are the Benchmarks for the i7 8700K in Content Creation Tasks?
The benchmarks for the i7 8700K in content creation tasks highlight its performance across various applications.
- Video Editing: The i7 8700K excels in video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro, achieving fast render times and smooth playback due to its six cores and hyper-threading capabilities. This processor can handle 4K video projects effectively, allowing for efficient multitasking during editing sessions.
- 3D Rendering: In 3D rendering applications such as Blender and Cinema 4D, the i7 8700K shows impressive performance, thanks to its strong single-threaded capabilities combined with multi-threaded processing. This results in quicker render times and a more responsive experience when working on complex 3D models.
- Photo Editing: The i7 8700K performs admirably in photo editing tools like Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, delivering fast processing speeds for tasks such as image manipulation and batch processing. Its ability to handle multiple layers and filters without significant lag makes it a favored choice among content creators.
- Streaming: For live streaming tasks, the i7 8700K provides a solid performance, allowing users to stream high-quality content while simultaneously running demanding applications. Its six cores can effectively manage the load of encoding video streams without compromising frame rates or video quality.
- Music Production: In digital audio workstations (DAWs) like Ableton Live and FL Studio, the i7 8700K handles multiple tracks and plugins efficiently, thanks to its robust processing power. This results in low latency and the ability to work with complex audio projects without experiencing significant slowdowns.
Which Are the Key Features of the i7 8700K That Set It Apart?
The key features that set the i7 8700K apart as one of the best processors are:
- Six Cores and Twelve Threads: The i7 8700K features a hexa-core design with hyper-threading capabilities, allowing it to handle 12 threads simultaneously.
- Base and Turbo Clock Speeds: It boasts a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz, which can turbo boost up to 4.7 GHz, providing excellent performance for both gaming and productivity tasks.
- Unlocked Multiplier: Being an unlocked processor, the i7 8700K allows for overclocking, enabling users to push performance beyond standard specifications for enhanced performance.
- Integrated UHD Graphics 630: The processor includes Intel’s UHD Graphics 630, which supports 4K video playback and is capable of handling light gaming tasks without the need for a dedicated GPU.
- Advanced Thermal Design: It features an improved thermal design with a TDP of 95W, allowing for better heat management and stability, especially under heavy workloads.
The six-core and twelve-thread design of the i7 8700K makes it particularly well-suited for multitasking and demanding applications, such as video editing and gaming, where multiple threads can significantly improve performance.
With its base and turbo clock speeds, users can expect responsive performance, especially in single-threaded applications, while the ability to reach 4.7 GHz ensures that it can compete with many modern processors.
The unlocked multiplier is a significant advantage for enthusiasts and gamers who want to maximize their system’s potential through overclocking, providing the flexibility to achieve higher speeds based on cooling capabilities.
The integrated UHD Graphics 630 allows users to enjoy high-resolution content and run basic applications without needing an extra graphics card, making it suitable for budget builds or compact systems.
Lastly, the advanced thermal design of the i7 8700K ensures that it remains cool and operates efficiently, even during resource-intensive tasks, which is crucial for maintaining system stability and longevity.
What Is the Significance of the i7 8700K’s Clock Speed and Core Count?
The i7 8700K processor stands out due to its impressive clock speed and core count, which play critical roles in its overall performance.
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Clock Speed: With a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 4.7 GHz, the i7 8700K offers robust single-core performance. This is especially beneficial for applications that rely heavily on single-threaded tasks, such as gaming and certain software programs. Higher clock speeds translate to quicker processing times, resulting in a smoother user experience.
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Core Count: The i7 8700K features six cores and twelve threads, making it well-equipped for multitasking and demanding applications. This core configuration allows users to run multiple applications simultaneously, such as gaming while streaming or video editing. The hyper-threading technology effectively doubles the processing threads available, enhancing its capability to handle parallel tasks without significant slowdowns.
These features make the i7 8700K an appealing choice for gamers, content creators, and professionals seeking a balance between high performance and efficiency in demanding environments.
How Does Overclocking Enhance the i7 8700K’s Performance?
Overclocking can significantly enhance the performance of the i7 8700K processor by increasing its clock speeds beyond the manufacturer’s specifications.
- Increased Clock Speed: Overclocking raises the clock speed of the CPU, allowing it to perform more operations per second. This results in faster processing times for demanding applications and games, leading to improved overall performance.
- Improved Multithreading Performance: The i7 8700K features hyper-threading, which enables it to handle multiple threads simultaneously. By overclocking, you can maximize the efficiency of these threads, further enhancing performance in multi-core applications like video editing and 3D rendering.
- Better Gaming Experience: Higher clock speeds achieved through overclocking can lead to increased frame rates in gaming. This is particularly beneficial for CPU-bound games where the processor can become a bottleneck, providing a smoother and more enjoyable gaming experience.
- Optimized Thermal Management: While overclocking generates more heat, optimizing cooling solutions (like aftermarket coolers) can mitigate this. Effective thermal management allows the i7 8700K to sustain higher clock speeds without throttling, thereby maximizing performance over extended periods.
- Customization and Tuning: Overclocking allows users to tailor their CPU performance based on specific workloads or gaming needs. This customization can lead to a more efficient use of power and resources, ensuring that the processor delivers optimal performance for different tasks.
What Should You Consider When Buying an i7 8700K Processor?
When buying an i7 8700K processor, several key factors should be considered to ensure it meets your needs and expectations.
- Performance: The i7 8700K is a high-performance CPU with six cores and twelve threads, making it suitable for gaming, content creation, and multitasking. Its base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and turbo boost capability of up to 4.7 GHz provide strong performance across various applications.
- Overclocking Capability: One of the standout features of the i7 8700K is its unlocked multiplier, which allows for overclocking. This means users can boost performance beyond the stock settings, provided they have adequate cooling solutions and a compatible motherboard.
- Compatibility: Before purchasing, ensure your motherboard supports the i7 8700K. It requires an LGA 1151 socket and is compatible with 300-series chipsets, so check for BIOS updates that may be necessary for optimal performance.
- Cooling Solutions: The i7 8700K can generate significant heat, especially when overclocked. Investing in a high-quality cooling solution is essential to maintain stable performance and prevent thermal throttling during intensive tasks.
- Price: Prices for the i7 8700K can fluctuate based on market demand and availability. It’s worth comparing prices across different retailers to find the best deal, but also consider the performance benefits relative to newer processors that may offer better value.
- Future-Proofing: While the i7 8700K is still a strong contender for many tasks, consider your long-term needs. Depending on your usage, it may be beneficial to look into more recent CPU options that offer improved performance and features like integrated graphics enhancements.
- Power Consumption: The i7 8700K has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95W, which means it requires a decent power supply unit. Ensure your PSU can handle this, especially if you plan to overclock or run multiple components that draw power.
Are There Essential Compatibility Factors to Keep in Mind?
Choosing an appropriate cooling solution is essential since the i7 8700k can run hot, especially under load. High-performance air coolers or liquid cooling solutions are recommended to keep temperatures in check, ensuring the processor operates efficiently and prolongs its lifespan.
A power supply unit (PSU) must provide adequate power while maintaining stability. It’s advisable to choose a PSU from a reputable brand with an 80 Plus certification to ensure efficiency and reliability when powering the i7 8700k and other components.
RAM compatibility is also a significant factor, as the i7 8700k benefits from faster memory speeds. It’s important to select memory that not only matches the motherboard’s specifications but also aligns with the specific workload, whether it be gaming, content creation, or general use.
Finally, integrating a graphics card that complements the i7 8700k is crucial. While the processor can handle basic graphics tasks, a dedicated GPU is necessary for gaming or demanding graphical applications to fully utilize the processor’s capabilities without experiencing performance limitations.
What Are the Most Reliable Brands Offering the i7 8700K?
The most reliable brands offering the i7 8700K processor include:
- Intel: As the manufacturer of the i7 8700K, Intel is known for its high-quality products and advanced technology, ensuring optimal performance and compatibility with a wide range of motherboards.
- ASUS: ASUS is renowned for its motherboards that support the i7 8700K, featuring robust power delivery systems and advanced cooling solutions, which can enhance the processor’s performance and longevity.
- MSI: MSI offers a variety of motherboards designed for the i7 8700K, known for their reliable build quality and gaming-oriented features, making them a popular choice among gamers and PC builders alike.
- Gigabyte: Gigabyte provides high-performance motherboards that fully leverage the capabilities of the i7 8700K, equipped with user-friendly BIOS interfaces and excellent thermal management, ensuring stability during intense workloads.
- Cooler Master: While Cooler Master is primarily known for its cooling solutions, their products are often recommended for use with the i7 8700K to maintain optimal temperatures, especially during overclocking, thereby enhancing the processor’s performance.