CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8700 vs Intel Core i7-9700K
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.
Strong performance, but lacks Hyper-Threading for maximum multi-threaded scaling.
Gaming
Capable of handling modern GPUs without significant bottlenecking.
Excellent gaming performance, still capable of pushing high frame rates.
Virtualization
Excellent for home labs and running multiple VMs.
8 cores are good, but 8 threads limit parallel VM performance.
Efficiency
Highly efficient 65W design for the performance offered.
14nm process and high clocks result in significant power draw when overclocked.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- Good CPU inference due to 12 threads
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Good CPU inference due to high clocks
Content Creation
Gaming
- Handles RTX 3070/3080 class GPUs well
- High turbo boost ensures high frame rates
- Great for 144Hz gaming
- High single-core speeds benefit gaming
- Capable of 144Hz+ gaming
- Still relevant for modern GPUs
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
- Excellent gaming performance
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Uses Solder TIM for better cooling
- 8 physical cores
Cons
- Lacks Hyper-Threading
- Dead LGA 1151 platform
- High power consumption when overclocked
- 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 i7-9700K
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 3600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-9600KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-9900KRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 3700XRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative with better IPC and an upgrade path.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Superior efficiency and gaming performance.
- Intel Core i7-10700KAlt
Adds Hyper-Threading for 16 threads.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3DAlt
Vastly superior gaming performance with 3D V-Cache.
Budget alternative with similar multi-threaded performance.
Compare head-to-head
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 legendary gaming CPU that introduced 8 cores to the i7 lineup. Its high clocks and unlocked multiplier make it great for enthusiasts, though it lacks Hyper-Threading.
Best for: For PC builders considering the Core i7-9700K today, it is only recommended if purchased used at a significant discount. It remains an excellent gaming CPU, capable of handling modern titles without bottlenecking mid-range GPUs. The unlocked multiplier allows for easy overclocking, extending its lifespan. However, the lack of Hyper-Threading limits its potential in heavily multi-threaded productivity tasks like video editing or 3D rendering compared to modern CPUs. Avoid this processor if you are building a new system from scratch, as the LGA 1151 socket is dead, offering no upgrade path. If you already own a Z390 motherboard and are upgrading from a lower-tier 8th or 9th Gen CPU, the 9700K is a worthwhile investment. For everyone else, an AMD Ryzen 5 5600X or Intel Core i5-12400F offers better value, modern architecture, and an upgrade path.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8700 or Intel Core i7-9700K?
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 i7-9700K?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-9700K leads with a gaming performance score of 90/100 among Intel Core i7-8700 and Intel Core i7-9700K.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-8700 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-8700 (65 W), Intel Core i7-9700K (95 W).
Do Intel Core i7-8700 and Intel Core i7-9700K use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket 1151 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-9700K has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i7-8700 (6 cores), Intel Core i7-9700K (8 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-8700 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-8700 (15,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.