CPU Comparison
Core i7-860S vs Core i7-875K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-860S is a low-power desktop processor launched in January 2010, based on the 45nm Lynnfield architecture. Designed for users seeking quad-core performance with tighter thermal constraints, it operates at a base frequency of 2.533 GHz and can boost up to 3.466 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost technology. It features 4 cores and 8 threads, aided by an 8 MB L3 cache. The 'S' suffix denotes a lower 82W TDP compared to the standard 95W of the i7-860, making it suitable for smaller form factor builds and home theater PCs. It utilizes the LGA 1156 socket and supports dual-channel DDR3 memory. Unlike Clarkdale, Lynnfield lacks an integrated GPU, requiring a discrete graphics card. Although obsolete today, the 860S represented an early effort by Intel to segment its lineup based on power efficiency, offering a compelling balance of performance and lower heat output for its era.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Sufficient for basic office work and web browsing.
Identical to i7-870 at stock, highly responsive when OC'd.
Gaming
Can play older games fine, but bottlenecks modern GPUs.
Handles old games well but bottlenecks modern titles.
Virtualization
Good for basic home labs and VMs.
Good for legacy VMs.
Efficiency
Decent efficiency for 45nm, better than standard Lynnfield.
95W TDP, but power draw increases heavily when overclocked.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration
- Too slow for modern AI tasks
- No AI hardware
- Unsuitable for modern inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- PCIe 2.0 only
- Requires discrete GPU
- Lacks AVX instructions
- PCIe 2.0 only
- No AVX support
- Requires discrete GPU
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Lower 82W TDP
- Good turbo boost headroom
- 8MB L3 cache
- Quad-core with HT
Cons
- Obsolete platform
- No integrated graphics
- Locked multiplier
- DDR3 only
Pros
- Unlocked multiplier
- 8MB L3 cache
- High turbo clock
- Historical significance
Cons
- Obsolete platform
- No integrated graphics
- No stock cooler
- DDR3 only
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-860S
- AMD Phenom II X4 905eRival
Desktop Low-Power
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-750SRival
Desktop Low-Power
- Intel Core i7-860Rival
Desktop Mainstream
- Intel Core 2 Quad Q9550SRival
Legacy Low-Power
- AMD Phenom II X4 945Rival
Desktop Mainstream
- Intel Core i7-870SAlt
Slightly faster low-power variant.
Cheaper, similar performance in non-threaded apps.
Compare head-to-headVastly superior Sandy Bridge alternative.
Compare head-to-head
Core i7-875K
- AMD Phenom II X4 965 Black EditionRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- Intel Core i7-870Rival
Desktop High-End
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-750Rival
Desktop Mainstream
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-920Rival
Desktop High-End
- AMD Phenom II X6 1090TRival
Desktop Enthusiast
The true successor, massively better OC potential.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Phenom II X4 965 BEAlt
AMD's unlocked alternative.
Our Verdict on Each
A smart, energy-efficient Lynnfield chip for compact builds, though completely obsolete for modern use.
Best for: Repairing a legacy SFF LGA 1156 PC.
Read the full reviewA groundbreaking CPU that brought unlocked multipliers to the mainstream, making overclocking accessible. Still obsolete but legendary.
Best for: Legacy LGA 1156 overclocking project.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-860S or Core i7-875K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-875K comes out ahead with a score of 8.5/10. 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 i7-860S or Core i7-875K?
For gaming, the Core i7-875K leads with a gaming performance score of 37/100 among Core i7-860S and Core i7-875K.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-860S has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-860S (82 W), Core i7-875K (95 W).
Do Core i7-860S and Core i7-875K use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket 1156 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.