CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-6800K vs Core i7-4930K
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 still handle modern productivity apps well.
Gaming
Good for gaming, but single-core speed lags behind modern CPUs.
Good for gaming, but single-core speed lags behind modern CPUs.
Virtualization
Quad-channel memory and 12 threads make it great for VMs.
Excellent for home labs and multiple VMs.
Efficiency
140W TDP is power-hungry by modern standards.
130W TDP is high, and overclocking makes it worse.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- CPU inference is moderate due to core count
- Can run AI via GPUs
- No native AI hardware
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
- Handles modern games fine if overclocked
- Requires discrete GPU
- May struggle with single-core bound games
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
- Unlocked multiplier
- 40 PCIe lanes
- Quad-channel memory support
- 12MB L3 cache
Cons
- High 130W TDP
- No integrated graphics
- Lacks AVX2
- Outdated X79 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 i7-4930K
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-3930KRival
HEDT
- Intel Core i7-4960XAlt
The Extreme Edition variant with 15MB cache.
Newer Haswell-E 6-core with DDR4.
Compare head-to-head
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 legendary HEDT CPU that brought 6 cores to a more accessible price point, offering immense multi-threaded performance and overclocking headroom.
Best for: Upgrading an existing X79 workstation.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-6800K or Core i7-4930K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-4930K comes out ahead with a score of 8.8/10. 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 i7-4930K?
For gaming, the Core i7-4930K leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Intel Core i7-6800K and Core i7-4930K.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-4930K has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-6800K (140 W), Core i7-4930K (130 W).
Do Intel Core i7-6800K and Core i7-4930K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-6800K: Intel Socket 2011-3, Core i7-4930K: Intel Socket 2011), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-4930K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-6800K (13,000), Core i7-4930K (20,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.