CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-5820K vs Intel Core i7-6850K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-5820K is a high-end desktop (HEDT) processor built on the Haswell-E architecture. Designed for enthusiasts and professionals, it features six cores and twelve threads, offering a significant multi-threaded performance leap over mainstream quad-core CPUs of its era. Operating at a base frequency of 3.3 GHz and boosting up to 3.6 GHz, it delivers robust computing power for demanding applications. Unlike mainstream chips, it utilizes the LGA 2011-v3 socket and the X99 chipset, supporting quad-channel DDR4 memory for massive memory bandwidth. With 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes, it provides extensive expansion capabilities for multi-GPU setups and high-speed storage arrays. The 140-watt TDP reflects its workstation-class design. While it lacks integrated graphics, requiring a discrete GPU, the 5820K excels in parallel processing tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and virtualization, making it a powerhouse for creators who need more than standard desktop platforms offer.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
6 cores handle rendering well, but lack the speed of modern architectures.
Strong multi-core performance for its generation, adequate for many creator workloads if overclocked.
Gaming
Good for gaming, but single-core speed lags behind modern CPUs.
Handles modern games paired with a strong GPU, but newer mainstream CPUs offer higher frame rates and better efficiency.
Virtualization
Quad-channel memory and 12 threads make it great for VMs.
40 PCIe lanes and VT-x/VT-d support make it practical for lab and VM setups.
Efficiency
140W TDP on 22nm is power-hungry by modern standards.
High 140 W TDP and 14 nm process result in notable power draw versus modern alternatives.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- CPU inference is moderate due to core count
- No dedicated AI acceleration hardware; runs only CPU-based inference.
- AVX2 support helps with some vectorized compute workloads.
Content Creation
Gaming
- Can handle modern games with a discrete GPU
- Lower single-core speed limits high-refresh gaming
- Great for multi-tasking while gaming
- Base and turbo clocks are sufficient for high-refresh gaming with a capable GPU.
- PCIe 3.0 x16 remains viable for current graphics cards.
- Gaming performance is limited by older IPC and DDR4-2400 compared to newer platforms.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- 28 PCIe lanes
- Quad-channel DDR4 memory
- Unlocked for overclocking
Cons
- High 140W TDP
- Older 22nm process
- Only 28 PCIe lanes
- Lacks integrated graphics
Pros
- Six cores and 12 threads
- 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes
- Quad-channel DDR4-2400
- Unlocked multiplier with Turbo Boost Max 3.0
- Strong I/O expansion for multi-GPU/NVMe
- VT-x and VT-d support for virtualization
Cons
- No integrated graphics
- High 140 W TDP
- Discontinued platform with limited future upgrade path
- Lower memory speed limit (DDR4-2400)
- Not on official Windows 11 supported processor list
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-5820K
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700XRival
High-End Desktop
- Intel Core i7-4930KRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-6800KRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-5930KRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Vastly superior single-core speed and efficiency.
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative that beats it in almost everything.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
8 cores, better IPC, lower power.
Intel Core i7-6850K
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
Creator
- AMD Ryzen 5 1600XRival
Mainstream
- Intel Core i7-7700KRival
Gaming
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-5820KRival
Workstation
- RivalCompare head-to-head
Much faster gaming and creator performance on a newer platform with upgrade options.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 5900XAlt
Significantly higher multi-core performance and efficiency on AM4.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XAlt
Strong single and multi-threaded performance for gaming and productivity.
Modern high-performance option with DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A solid entry point into the HEDT market, offering 6 cores and DDR4 support, though aging rapidly compared to modern alternatives.
Best for: Upgrading an existing X99 system for more cores.
Read the full reviewA capable HEDT chip with strong multi-threaded performance and plentiful I/O for its time, but high power draw and a discontinued platform make it relevant mainly as a budget used upgrade.
Best for: Upgrade for existing X99/LGA2011-v3 systems seeking more cores or PCIe lanes at low cost.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-5820K or Intel Core i7-6850K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-5820K 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 i7-5820K or Intel Core i7-6850K?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-6850K leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i7-5820K and Intel Core i7-6850K.
Do Intel Core i7-5820K and Intel Core i7-6850K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-5820K: Intel Socket 2011-3, Intel Core i7-6850K: LGA2011-v3), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-5820K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-5820K (11,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.