CPU Comparison
Core i7-7740X vs Intel Core i7-7800X
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-7740X is a unique high-end desktop (HEDT) processor launched in June 2017. Based on the Kaby Lake-X architecture, it is essentially a mainstream quad-core die repurposed for the enthusiast LGA 2066 socket. Featuring 4 cores and 8 threads, it operates at a high base frequency of 4.3 GHz and boosts up to 4.6 GHz, catering specifically to users seeking maximum single-threaded performance. The X suffix denotes an unlocked multiplier, allowing for further overclocking. With a 112W TDP, it demands robust cooling. Notably, it lacks integrated graphics and does not support quad-channel memory, differentiating it from true HEDT Skylake-X parts. It includes 8MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR4 memory. The i7-7740X was a controversial product, offering little practical benefit over the cheaper LGA 1151 i7-7700K, but it allowed enthusiasts to access high clock speeds on the X299 platform, albeit with a limited feature set.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles multi-threaded productivity tasks reasonably well, though newer platforms overtake it in performance-per-watt.
Gaming
Adequate for 1080p and 1440p with a strong GPU, but modern gaming CPUs deliver higher frame rates and better efficiency.
Virtualization
Quad-channel memory and 12 threads suit multiple VMs and developer workloads.
Efficiency
High power draw relative to performance makes it less efficient than current-generation chips.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
No data
- AVX-512 accelerates some inference workloads on CPU
- No dedicated NPU or matrix engines
- Suitable only for light or experimental AI workloads
Content Creation
No data
Gaming
No data
- Supports high-refresh gaming with capable GPUs
- Lacks the single-thread uplift of newer architectures
- Requires discrete graphics
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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
Pros
- Quad-channel DDR4 memory
- Unlocked for overclocking
- AVX-512 support
- 12 threads for multi-threaded workloads
- 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes from CPU
Cons
- No integrated graphics
- Higher power consumption relative to modern CPUs
- Only 28 PCIe lanes vs higher-tier X-series SKUs
- Discontinued platform with limited upgrade path
- Memory officially limited to DDR4-2400
Competitors & Alternatives
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.
Intel Core i7-7800X
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700Rival
Creator
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
Creator
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920XRival
Workstation
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950XRival
Workstation
- RivalCompare head-to-head
Higher gaming performance on mainstream platform with lower power draw.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 3900XAlt
More cores, higher efficiency, and newer platform with PCIe 4.0 support.
Strong single-thread performance suitable for gaming and productivity.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XAlt
Modern Zen 3 architecture with excellent single and multi-threaded performance.
Current-gen hybrid architecture with high core counts and PCIe 5.0.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
An 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 reviewThe i7-7800X offers quad-channel memory and decent multi-core performance for its era, but higher power draw and limited PCIe lanes make it a niche choice today versus modern mainstream platforms.
Best for: Budget upgrade on existing X299 platform with DDR4 investment
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-7740X or Intel Core i7-7800X?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-7800X comes out ahead with a score of 7/10. 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, Core i7-7740X or Intel Core i7-7800X?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-7800X leads with a gaming performance score of 76/100 among Core i7-7740X and Intel Core i7-7800X.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-7740X has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-7740X (112 W), Intel Core i7-7800X (140 W).
Do Core i7-7740X and Intel Core i7-7800X use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-7740X: LGA 2066, Intel Core i7-7800X: LGA2066), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-7800X has the most cores. Core counts: Core i7-7740X (4 cores), Intel Core i7-7800X (6 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-7740X posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-7740X (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.