CPU Comparison
Core i7-860S vs Core i7-2600
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.
Still usable for basic office tasks and web browsing.
Gaming
Can play older games fine, but bottlenecks modern GPUs.
Can still run older games, but bottlenecks modern GPUs.
Virtualization
Good for basic home labs and VMs.
Handles light VMs well.
Efficiency
Decent efficiency for 45nm, better than standard Lynnfield.
95W TDP on 32nm is not efficient by modern standards.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration
- Too slow for modern AI tasks
- No AI hardware
- Too slow for modern AI
Content Creation
Gaming
- PCIe 2.0 only
- Requires discrete GPU
- Lacks AVX instructions
- Good for retro gaming
- Needs discrete GPU
- PCIe 2.0 may bottleneck modern cards
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
- Revolutionary IPC for 2011
- 4 cores and 8 threads
- Solid single-core performance
- Integrated graphics
Cons
- 32nm process is inefficient
- Lacks AVX2
- PCIe 2.0 only
- Locked multiplier
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 i7-2600
- AMD FX-8120Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-2600KAlt
Unlocked version for overclocking.
- Intel Core i7-3770Alt
Newer Ivy Bridge alternative.
Cheaper, no Hyper-Threading but similar gaming performance.
Compare head-to-head
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 legendary CPU that offered incredible value and performance in 2011. While outdated, it remains a milestone in Intel's history.
Best for: Keeping an old PC alive.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-860S or Core i7-2600?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-2600 comes out ahead with a score of 7.5/10. 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 i7-2600?
For gaming, the Core i7-2600 leads with a gaming performance score of 50/100 among Core i7-860S and Core i7-2600.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-860S has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-860S (82 W), Core i7-2600 (95 W).
Do Core i7-860S and Core i7-2600 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-860S: Intel Socket 1156, Core i7-2600: Intel Socket 1155), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-2600 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-2600 (9,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.