CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-6800K vs Core i7-7820X
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-6800K is a high-end desktop (HEDT) processor built on the Broadwell-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 3.4 GHz and boosting up to 3.8 GHz with Intel Turbo Boost Max 3.0, 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 6800K 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.
Gaming
Good for gaming, but single-core speed lags behind modern CPUs.
Virtualization
Quad-channel memory and 12 threads make it great for VMs.
Efficiency
140W TDP is power-hungry by modern standards.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- CPU inference is moderate due to core count
No data
Content Creation
No data
Gaming
- Can handle modern games with a discrete GPU
- Lower single-core speed limits high-refresh gaming
- Great for multi-tasking while gaming
No data
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- 28 PCIe lanes
- Quad-channel memory
- Unlocked for overclocking
Cons
- High 140W TDP
- Older 14nm process
- Only 28 PCIe lanes
- Lacks integrated graphics
Pros
- Strong 8-core multi-threaded performance
- Turbo Boost Max 3.0 for high single-core bursts
- Quad-channel memory support
- AVX-512 support
Cons
- High 140W TDP
- Runs very hot (uses thermal paste)
- Lacks integrated graphics
- Expensive X299 platform
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-6800K
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700XRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-5820KRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700Rival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-7800XRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-6850KRival
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.
Core i7-7820X
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1900XRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-7900XRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-6900KRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-7800XRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920XAlt
12 cores and 64 PCIe lanes for similar money.
Better gaming performance on mainstream platform.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 3900XAlt
12 cores, much more efficient and modern.
Our Verdict on Each
A solid entry point into the HEDT market, offering 6 cores and 28 PCIe lanes, though aging rapidly compared to modern alternatives.
Best for: Upgrading an existing X99 system for more cores.
Read the full reviewAn excellent 8-core HEDT processor for 2017, offering a great balance of frequency and core count, though it suffers from high thermals.
Best for: Used budget workstation build
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-6800K or Core i7-7820X?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-6800K leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i7-6800K and Core i7-7820X.
Do Intel Core i7-6800K and Core i7-7820X use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-6800K: Intel Socket 2011-3, Core i7-7820X: LGA 2066), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Core i7-7820X has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i7-6800K (6 cores), Core i7-7820X (8 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-6800K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-6800K (13,000), Core i7-7820X (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.