CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8700B vs Intel Core i7-8700K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8700B is a unique desktop processor featuring a ball grid array (BGA) packaging, designed specifically for integration into compact systems like the Mac mini and small form factor desktop PCs. Part of the 8th Gen Coffee Lake family, it boasts six cores and twelve threads, delivering robust computing power in a space-constrained form factor. It operates at a base clock of 3.2 GHz and can turbo boost up to 4.6 GHz, mirroring the performance of the socketed i7-8700. The 65-watt TDP ensures it runs efficiently within the tight thermal confines of an Apple chassis or similar mini PC. Integrated UHD Graphics 630 provide capable display outputs for everyday tasks and multimedia consumption. This processor was engineered to offer full desktop-class hexa-core performance without the need for a traditional socketed motherboard, allowing manufacturers to create highly integrated, space-saving systems that do not compromise on processing power.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles compiling, rendering, and multitasking effortlessly.
12 threads and high clocks make quick work of compiling and rendering.
Gaming
Good for gaming if paired with an eGPU or external monitor.
Still handles modern GPUs and high-refresh-rate gaming with ease.
Virtualization
Great for running VMs in a compact server footprint.
Great for home labs and virtualization.
Efficiency
Optimized power delivery for BGA designs.
Consumes more power than newer generations when overclocked.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- 12 threads help with CPU inference
- No AI hardware
- Strong CPU inference due to high clocks
Content Creation
Gaming
- Relies on eGPU or discrete GPU in chassis
- UHD 630 only good for light games
- CPU performance is excellent for gaming
- Won't bottleneck RTX 3080/4080 class GPUs
- Excellent for 144Hz+ gaming
- Overclocking increases frame rates further
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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- 14nm process is outdated
Pros
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Excellent single-core performance
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- Great for high-refresh gaming
Cons
- Runs hot under load
- Requires delidding for extreme OC
- Older 14nm process
- No PCIe 4.0
Competitors & Alternatives
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.
Intel Core i7-8700K
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700XRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- RivalCompare head-to-head
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-8600KRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600XRival
Desktop Enthusiast
Successor with higher clocks and soldered IHS.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative with equal performance and lower price.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Better efficiency and newer platform.
Similar architecture, higher clocks.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3DAlt
Vastly superior gaming performance.
Our Verdict on Each
A 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 reviewAn iconic processor that brought 6 cores to the mainstream, offering incredible overclocking headroom and gaming performance that holds up today.
Best for: Legacy system upgrade for high-refresh gaming without spending on a new platform.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8700B or Intel Core i7-8700K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8700K comes out ahead with a score of 9.5/10. 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, Intel Core i7-8700B or Intel Core i7-8700K?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-8700K leads with a gaming performance score of 92/100 among Intel Core i7-8700B and Intel Core i7-8700K.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-8700B has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-8700B (65 W), Intel Core i7-8700K (95 W).
Do Intel Core i7-8700B and Intel Core i7-8700K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-8700B: Intel BGA 1440, Intel Core i7-8700K: Intel Socket 1151), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-8700K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-8700B (15,000), Intel Core i7-8700K (16,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.