CPU Comparison
Core i7-7800X vs Intel Core i7-8700K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-7800X is a high-end desktop (HEDT) processor launched in June 2017 as part of the Skylake-X family. Designed for the LGA 2066 socket, this 14nm CPU features 6 cores and 12 threads, providing a substantial multi-threaded upgrade over mainstream quad-core parts of the era. Operating at a base clock of 3.5 GHz and boosting up to 4.0 GHz, it balances frequency with core density for workstation workloads. With a 140W TDP, it requires robust cooling and a capable motherboard. The processor features a unique cache hierarchy with 8.25MB of L3 cache and 1MB of dedicated L2 cache per core. It supports quad-channel DDR4-2400 memory, offering massive memory bandwidth, and includes 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes for extensive expansion capabilities. Lacking integrated graphics, it targets creators and enthusiasts who rely on discrete GPUs. The i7-7800X brought true HEDT features to a more accessible price point, though it faced fierce competition from AMD's Ryzen Threadripper.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
12 threads and high clocks make quick work of compiling and rendering.
Gaming
Still handles modern GPUs and high-refresh-rate gaming with ease.
Virtualization
Great for home labs and virtualization.
Efficiency
Consumes more power than newer generations when overclocked.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
No data
- No AI hardware
- Strong CPU inference due to high clocks
Content Creation
No data
Gaming
No data
- Won't bottleneck RTX 3080/4080 class GPUs
- Excellent for 144Hz+ gaming
- Overclocking increases frame rates further
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Quad-channel memory support
- 28 PCIe lanes for expansion
- Good multi-threaded performance
- AVX-512 support
Cons
- High 140W TDP
- Runs very hot under load
- Lacks integrated graphics
- Outdated 14nm process
Pros
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Excellent single-core performance
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- Great for high-refresh gaming
Cons
- Runs hot under load
- Requires delidding for extreme OC
- Older 14nm process
- No PCIe 4.0
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-7800X
- AMD Ryzen 5 1600XRival
Mainstream Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-7820XRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1900XRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-6800KRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
High-End Desktop
Better gaming performance on a mainstream platform.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 3700XAlt
Much more efficient and faster modern alternative.
True high-end HEDT performance with 10 cores.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-8700K
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700XRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- RivalCompare head-to-head
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-8600KRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600XRival
Desktop Enthusiast
Successor with higher clocks and soldered IHS.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative with equal performance and lower price.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Better efficiency and newer platform.
Similar architecture, higher clocks.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3DAlt
Vastly superior gaming performance.
Our Verdict on Each
A solid entry into Intel's HEDT platform, offering good multi-threaded performance and ample expansion, though it runs hot and is outdated by modern standards.
Best for: Cheap used workstation build
Read the full reviewAn iconic processor that brought 6 cores to the mainstream, offering incredible overclocking headroom and gaming performance that holds up today.
Best for: Legacy system upgrade for high-refresh gaming without spending on a new platform.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-7800X or Intel Core i7-8700K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8700K comes out ahead with a score of 9.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Core i7-7800X or Intel Core i7-8700K?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8700K leads with a gaming performance score of 92/100 among Core i7-7800X and Intel Core i7-8700K.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-8700K has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-7800X (140 W), Intel Core i7-8700K (95 W).
Do Core i7-7800X and Intel Core i7-8700K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-7800X: LGA 2066, Intel Core i7-8700K: Intel Socket 1151), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-8700K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-7800X (0), Intel Core i7-8700K (16,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.