CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-11600K vs Intel Core i7-11700
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-11600K is a 6-core, 12-thread desktop processor launched in March 2021. Based on the Rocket Lake architecture, it utilizes the Cypress Cove microarchitecture on Intel's 14nm process. Featuring a base clock of 3.9 GHz and a turbo boost of 4.9 GHz, it targets mainstream gamers and enthusiasts. Unlike the KF variant, it includes Intel UHD Graphics 750. With a 125W base TDP, it offers unlocked overclocking and 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes, bringing next-gen connectivity to the LGA 1200 platform.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Capable multi-threaded performance for typical productivity applications.
8 cores make quick work of office applications, compilation, and media consumption.
Gaming
Handles modern games easily at 1080p and 1440p when paired with a mid-to-high-end GPU.
Holds its own in modern gaming, easily pushing high frame rates when paired with mid-to-high tier GPUs.
Virtualization
Adequate for light virtualization tasks, though limited to 6 cores.
Solid host for virtual machines thanks to 16 threads and VT-d support.
Efficiency
Power consumption is high under load due to the 14nm process pushing high clocks.
14nm node is less efficient than AMD's 7nm parts, drawing more power under load.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Supports AVX-512 and DLBoost for basic AI workloads.
- Not ideal for large-scale AI training.
- AVX-512 support helps with specific AI workloads
- No dedicated NPU
Content Creation
Gaming
- High single-core boost clocks ensure smooth gameplay.
- PCIe 4.0 support benefits newer GPUs.
- QuickSync technology accelerates video encoding.
- Strong single-core boost speeds
- Capable of handling GPU-intensive games
- iGPU allows troubleshooting if GPU fails
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Strong single-core performance for gaming
- Integrated UHD 750 graphics for troubleshooting
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
- PCIe 4.0 support
- Backwards compatible with 400-series motherboards
Cons
- High power consumption under load
- 14nm process runs hot compared to competitors
- Limited to 6 cores while competitors offered 8 at this tier
- End-of-life platform
- Relatively high launch price
Pros
- Includes UHD 750 integrated graphics
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- Supports 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Good single-core performance
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process is power-hungry under load
- End-of-life LGA 1200 platform
- Runs warm compared to 10nm chips
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-11600K
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-10600KRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600XRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-11700KRival
Desktop
Slightly cheaper option if you already own a dedicated GPU.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
More power-efficient alternative on the AM4 platform.
- Intel Core i5-11400Alt
Budget-friendly alternative if overclocking is not needed.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
Offers 8 cores for better multi-threaded workloads at similar pricing.
Intel Core i7-11700
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-11600KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-11900Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-10700KRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400Alt
Newer architecture, better efficiency, and similar performance.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Better value and power efficiency.
Cheaper if you already own a dedicated GPU.
Compare head-to-headVastly superior multi-core and gaming performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
More efficient 8-core alternative.
Our Verdict on Each
An excellent choice for mid-range gaming and productivity, offering good single-core speeds, PCIe 4.0, and integrated graphics for troubleshooting.
Best for: Building a mid-range gaming PC on the LGA 1200 platform.
Read the full reviewA well-rounded 8-core CPU that offers great everyday performance and integrated graphics, though it lags in efficiency compared to newer generations.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 1200 PC and wanting integrated graphics.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-11600K or Intel Core i7-11700?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-11600K comes out ahead with a score of 8/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i5-11600K or Intel Core i7-11700?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-11600K leads with a gaming performance score of 85/100 among Intel Core i5-11600K and Intel Core i7-11700.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-11700 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i5-11600K (125 W), Intel Core i7-11700 (65 W).
Do Intel Core i5-11600K and Intel Core i7-11700 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i5-11600K: Intel Socket 1200 (LGA1200), Intel Core i7-11700: LGA 1200), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-11700 has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i5-11600K (6 cores), Intel Core i7-11700 (8 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-11600K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-11600K (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.