CPU Comparison
Core i7-7800X vs Intel Core i7-7820X
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
Strong multi-threaded throughput in CINEBENCH, HandBrake, and similar workloads at launch; still competent for many content creation tasks compared to modern mainstream parts.
Gaming
Delivers high frame rates in 2017-era titles and remains adequate for modern gaming, but newer gaming-focused CPUs with higher clocks and improved IPC pull ahead.
Virtualization
PCIe and memory bandwidth are helpful for multiple VMs, but core count is moderate for modern heavy virtualization needs.
Efficiency
High 140 W TDP and 14 nm process lead to greater power consumption versus newer 7 nm and smaller nodes.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
No data
- No dedicated AI acceleration hardware
- AVX-512 can help certain CPU-bound inference tasks
- Most modern AI workloads are better served by GPUs
Content Creation
No data
Gaming
No data
- Capable of high-refresh gaming with a strong GPU
- Single-core boost reaches up to 4.5 GHz on favored cores
- Modern CPUs offer better gaming efficiency and higher IPC
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- Outdated 14nm process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
- 8 cores and 16 threads for multi-threaded workloads
- Quad-channel DDR4 memory increases bandwidth
- 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes plus chipset lanes for expansion
- Turbo Boost Max 3.0 for higher single-core boosts
- AVX-512 support for optimized workloads
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
Cons
- High 140 W TDP and power consumption
- No integrated graphics
- Only 28 CPU PCIe lanes, limiting multi-GPU configurations
- Discontinued platform with limited future upgrades
- Older 14 nm process versus modern smaller nodes
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 i7-7820X
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
Creator/Gaming
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700XRival
Creator/Gaming
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920XRival
Workstation
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950XRival
Workstation
- RivalCompare head-to-head
More cores, higher efficiency, and DDR5 on a modern mainstream platform.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 7900Alt
Strong multi-threaded performance with excellent efficiency.
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900XAlt
12-core AM4 option with strong gaming and creator performance.
High-performance mainstream platform with good upgrade path.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X (used)Alt
Higher core and lane count for workstation-class workloads.
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 reviewA competent eight-core HEDT chip with strong multi-threaded performance and platform expansion, though high power draw and limited PCIe lanes compared to higher-tier X299 CPUs make it a niche choice today.
Best for: Used-market upgrade for an existing X299 build with quad-channel DDR4 and a need for more cores than mainstream.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Core i7-7800X or Intel Core i7-7820X?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-7820X leads with a gaming performance score of 78/100 among Core i7-7800X and Intel Core i7-7820X.
Do Core i7-7800X and Intel Core i7-7820X use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-7800X: LGA 2066, Intel Core i7-7820X: LGA2066), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-7820X has the most cores. Core counts: Core i7-7800X (6 cores), Intel Core i7-7820X (8 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-7800X posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-7800X (0). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.