CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8700 vs Intel Core i7-8700B
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8700 is a highly regarded mainstream desktop processor that brought six-core computing to the masses. Launched as part of the 8th Gen Coffee Lake family, it features six cores and twelve threads, representing a 50% increase in core count over the previous 7th Gen quad-core i7 models. Operating at a base clock of 3.2 GHz with a max turbo of 4.6 GHz, it delivers exceptional performance for both gaming and multi-threaded productivity tasks. Its 65-watt TDP ensures it runs efficiently and coolly under typical loads. The processor includes Intel UHD Graphics 630, providing a safety net for systems without a dedicated GPU. It struck a perfect balance between price and performance, becoming the go-to recommendation for gamers and content creators who didn't need the unlocked overclocking features of the i7-8700K. Its robust multi-threading capabilities make it highly capable of handling modern workloads, including video editing and heavy multitasking.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
12 threads crush office workloads and compiling tasks.
Handles compiling, rendering, and multitasking effortlessly.
Gaming
Capable of handling modern GPUs without significant bottlenecking.
Good for gaming if paired with an eGPU or external monitor.
Virtualization
Excellent for home labs and running multiple VMs.
Great for running VMs in a compact server footprint.
Efficiency
Highly efficient 65W design for the performance offered.
Optimized power delivery for BGA designs.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- Good CPU inference due to 12 threads
- No AI hardware
- 12 threads help with CPU inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Handles RTX 3070/3080 class GPUs well
- High turbo boost ensures high frame rates
- Great for 144Hz gaming
- Relies on eGPU or discrete GPU in chassis
- UHD 630 only good for light games
- CPU performance is excellent for gaming
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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)
Pros
- Full desktop performance in BGA form
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- Excellent for compact systems
- Good turbo boost speeds
Cons
- Soldered, cannot be upgraded
- Hard to find outside pre-builts
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process is outdated
Competitors & Alternatives
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.
Intel Core i7-8700B
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700ERival
Compact Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8700Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-8500BRival
Compact Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700URival
Mobile
- Intel Core i7-7700BRival
Compact Desktop
- Intel Core i7-10700BAlt
Successor with 2 more cores.
- Mac Studio M1Alt
Vastly superior performance and efficiency.
- Intel NUC 12 ProAlt
Modern alternative with 12th Gen performance.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800H Mini PCAlt
Better integrated graphics and efficiency.
- Mac mini M2Alt
Current generation, much faster.
Our Verdict on Each
One 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 reviewA highly capable BGA processor that brought real desktop performance to compact systems like the 2018 Mac mini.
Best for: Purchasing a used 2018 Mac mini for a home server or dev machine.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8700 or Intel Core i7-8700B?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8700 comes out ahead with a score of 9/10. 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 i7-8700 or Intel Core i7-8700B?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8700 leads with a gaming performance score of 88/100 among Intel Core i7-8700 and Intel Core i7-8700B.
Do Intel Core i7-8700 and Intel Core i7-8700B use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-8700: Intel Socket 1151, Intel Core i7-8700B: Intel BGA 1440), so each needs a compatible motherboard.