CPU Comparison
Core i7-7700K vs Core i7-7740X
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-7700K is a high-performance desktop processor launched in January 2017, representing the flagship of the Kaby Lake mainstream lineup. Built on the 14nm+ process, this quad-core CPU features Hyper-Threading, delivering 8 concurrent threads. It operates at an aggressive base clock of 4.2 GHz and boosts up to 4.5 GHz out of the box, providing exceptional single-threaded performance. The K suffix denotes an unlocked multiplier, making it a favorite among enthusiasts for overclocking, often pushing beyond 5.0 GHz with adequate cooling. With a 91W TDP, it demands robust cooling, especially since it uses thermal paste instead of solder between the die and IHS, a point of criticism among the community. It features 8MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR4-2400 memory. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 630 offers basic display capabilities, though its primary market is gamers relying on discrete GPUs. The i7-7700K marked the pinnacle of Intel's quad-core dominance before market pressures forced a core count increase.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent single-core performance
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Easily hits 5.0 GHz with AIO cooling
- Great for high-refresh-rate 1080p gaming
Cons
- Only 4 cores
- Uses thermal paste instead of solder (runs hot)
- High power draw when overclocked
- LGA 1151 is a dead platform
Pros
- High single-core frequencies
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Access to X299 chipset features
Cons
- Only 4 cores on an HEDT platform
- Limited to dual-channel memory
- No integrated graphics
- Poor value compared to true HEDT or mainstream parts
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-7700K
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700Rival
Performance Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 1600XRival
Performance Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-6700KRival
Performance Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-7600KRival
Mainstream Desktop
- AMD FX-9590Rival
Performance Desktop
- Intel Core i7-7700Alt
Locked version with lower TDP if overclocking isn't needed.
- AMD Ryzen 5 1600Alt
More cores for multi-threaded workloads at a similar price.
Next-gen upgrade with 6 cores.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 3600Alt
Much newer architecture with better IPC and efficiency.
Core i7-7740X
- Intel Core i7-7700KRival
Performance Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-7800XRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
High-End Desktop
- Intel Core i5-7640XRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 1600XRival
Performance Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700Alt
More cores and better multi-threading for less money.
Actual high-end HEDT performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Threadripper 1900XAlt
Better HEDT platform features and core count.
Our Verdict on Each
A legendary overclocker that delivered top-tier single-core performance in 2017, but its 4-core limit shows its age in modern multi-threaded workloads.
Best for: Upgrading an existing Z270 system cheaply
Read the full reviewAn oddity in Intel's lineup, offering high clocks but limited core count and features for the HEDT platform. Hard to recommend over mainstream alternatives.
Best for: Niche collection or specific legacy X299 troubleshooting
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-7700K or Core i7-7740X?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-7700K comes out ahead with a score of 7.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-7700K has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-7700K (91 W), Core i7-7740X (112 W).
Do Core i7-7700K and Core i7-7740X use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-7700K: LGA 1151, Core i7-7740X: LGA 2066), so each needs a compatible motherboard.