CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-6800K vs Core i7-3910K
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.
6 cores and 12 threads provide solid performance for rendering.
Gaming
Good for gaming, but single-core speed lags behind modern CPUs.
Decent for gaming, but lower clocks limit modern CPU-heavy games.
Virtualization
Quad-channel memory and 12 threads make it great for VMs.
Excellent for VMs thanks to 12 threads and quad-channel memory.
Efficiency
140W TDP is power-hungry by modern standards.
130W TDP is high, and 32nm is inefficient.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- CPU inference is moderate due to core count
- No AI acceleration
- PCIe 3.0 is okay for older accelerators
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
- 6 cores help with modern games
- Lower base clock limits single-core performance
- Needs discrete GPU
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
- 6 cores and 12 threads
- 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes
- Quad-channel memory
- Unlocked multiplier
Cons
- High 130W TDP
- Low base clock (3.0 GHz)
- 32nm process is inefficient
- Obsolete 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 i7-3910K
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-3930KRival
HEDT
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4770KRival
Desktop
- AMD FX-8320Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-3820Rival
HEDT
- Intel Core i7-4930KAlt
Ivy Bridge-E successor with slightly better performance.
Haswell-E successor with DDR4 support.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-4820KAlt
Cheaper 4-core alternative on the same platform.
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 reviewA great entry point to the LGA 2011 platform, offering 6 cores and full PCIe 3.0 lanes at a lower price point.
Best for: Budget X79 workstation build
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-6800K or Core i7-3910K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-6800K 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 i7-6800K or Core i7-3910K?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-6800K leads with a gaming performance score of 65/100 among Intel Core i7-6800K and Core i7-3910K.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-3910K has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-6800K (140 W), Core i7-3910K (130 W).
Do Intel Core i7-6800K and Core i7-3910K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-6800K: Intel Socket 2011-3, Core i7-3910K: LGA 2011), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
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 i7-3910K (12,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.