CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8086K vs Intel Core i7-8700
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8086K is a special edition enthusiast desktop processor released to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the original Intel 8086 microprocessor. Based on the 8th Gen Coffee Lake architecture, it features six cores and twelve threads, similar to the i7-8700K, but binned for higher clock speeds. It was notably the first mainstream CPU to boast a 5.0 GHz turbo boost frequency out of the box, a significant milestone in Intel's clock speed progression. Operating at a base clock of 4.0 GHz, it delivers blistering single-threaded performance, making it exceptional for high-refresh-rate gaming. The 95-watt TDP and unlocked multiplier cater directly to hardcore enthusiasts and overclockers. Packaged in a distinctive collector's box, the i7-8086K is more than just a CPU; it is a celebration of Intel's legacy. Beneath the commemorative branding lies a ferociously fast processor that pushed the 14nm process to its limits to achieve the historic 5 GHz barrier.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles any productivity task with ease.
12 threads crush office workloads and compiling tasks.
Gaming
Elite single-core performance translates to massive frame rates in CPU-bound games.
Capable of handling modern GPUs without significant bottlenecking.
Virtualization
Good for VMs, though 6 cores is slightly limiting for heavy servers.
Excellent for home labs and running multiple VMs.
Efficiency
Requires significant power to maintain 5.0 GHz.
Highly efficient 65W design for the performance offered.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- High clocks help CPU inference
- No AI hardware
- Good CPU inference due to 12 threads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Elite single-core speed
- Perfect for high-refresh-rate monitors
- Won't bottleneck any GPU
- Handles RTX 3070/3080 class GPUs well
- High turbo boost ensures high frame rates
- Great for 144Hz gaming
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- First 5.0 GHz stock CPU
- High-quality silicon binning
- Unlocked multiplier
- Collector's item packaging
Cons
- Expensive due to collector status
- Runs hot at 5.0 GHz
- Only 6 cores vs newer 8+ core CPUs
- No PCIe 4.0
Pros
- Excellent price-to-performance
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- 4.6 GHz turbo boost
- Easy to cool
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- Older 14nm process
- Limited to PCIe 3.0
- Platform is dead (LGA 1151)
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-8086K
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8700KRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1900XRival
HEDT
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-8600KRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
Desktop Enthusiast
Successor with 8 cores and 5.0 GHz.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Better efficiency and modern platform.
Similar performance, slightly newer.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3DAlt
Vastly superior gaming performance.
Intel Core i7-8700
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8700KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-8600KRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Faster single-core, newer platform.
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative with better IPC.
Cheaper, similar performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
More cores, better efficiency.
Our Verdict on Each
A historic processor that hit 5.0 GHz out of the box. It's a fantastic collector's item and an exceptional gaming CPU.
Best for: Collectors or enthusiasts upgrading an LGA 1151 system for max gaming FPS.
Read the full reviewOne of the best value desktop processors of its generation, offering 95% of the i7-8700K's performance at a lower price and power draw.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 1151 system for high-refresh gaming.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8086K or Intel Core i7-8700?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8086K comes out ahead with a score of 9.2/10. 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 i7-8086K or Intel Core i7-8700?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8086K leads with a gaming performance score of 94/100 among Intel Core i7-8086K and Intel Core i7-8700.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-8700 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-8086K (95 W), Intel Core i7-8700 (65 W).
Do Intel Core i7-8086K and Intel Core i7-8700 use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket 1151 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-8086K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-8086K (16,500), Intel Core i7-8700 (15,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.