CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-9700F vs Intel Core i7-11700KF
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-9700F is a 9th Generation desktop processor launched in April 2019 as part of the Coffee Lake Refresh family. Built on the 14nm process, it features 8 cores and 8 threads, differing from its i7-9700 counterpart by lacking integrated graphics. The 'F' suffix denotes the absence of an internal GPU, requiring a dedicated graphics card for system operation. With a base clock of 3.0 GHz and a boost clock of 4.7 GHz, it offers strong gaming and productivity performance. It includes 12MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR4 memory at 2666 MT/s. Operating at a 65W TDP, it is an efficient choice for budget-conscious builders. While it lacks Hyper-Threading, the 8 physical cores provide ample multitasking capability, making the i7-9700F a popular choice for gamers and content creators seeking solid value without paying for unnecessary integrated graphics.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Good for general productivity, but lacks Hyper-Threading for heavy multi-threading.
8 cores at 5.0 GHz make short work of compilation and rendering tasks.
Gaming
Strong gaming performance thanks to high boost clocks and 8 cores.
Outstanding gaming performance, easily pushing 240Hz+ in esports titles when paired with fast RAM and a high-end GPU.
Virtualization
8 cores help, but 8 threads limit parallel virtualization.
Strong core count and clock speeds provide excellent VM performance.
Efficiency
65W TDP is very efficient for an 8-core 14nm chip.
The 14nm process at 125W+ is highly inefficient and generates massive heat under load.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Lacks Quick Sync Video due to no iGPU
- AVX-512 accelerates specific workloads
- High clock speeds help with CPU-based inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- High single-core boost speeds
- Handles modern games well
- Requires dedicated GPU
- 5.0 GHz boost is excellent for CPU-bound games
- PCIe 4.0 ensures zero GPU bottlenecks
- Requires a dedicated GPU
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Strong gaming performance
- 8 physical cores
- 65W TDP is easy to cool
- Good value on the used market
Cons
- No integrated graphics
- Lacks Hyper-Threading
- Locked multiplier
- Older 14nm process
Pros
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Hits 5.0 GHz on single cores
- 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Excellent single-thread performance
Cons
- Runs extremely hot under load
- 125W TDP requires heavy-duty cooling
- No integrated graphics
- 14nm process is inefficient
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-9700F
- AMD Ryzen 5 3600Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-9400FRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8700Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600XRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative with better IPC and upgrade path.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Superior gaming performance and efficiency.
- Intel Core i7-10700FAlt
Adds Hyper-Threading for 16 threads.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
Much better multi-threaded performance.
Cheaper 10th Gen alternative with similar performance.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-11700KF
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-11900KFRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-11600KRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XRival
Desktop
Vastly superior efficiency and performance for a similar price.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 7600Alt
Newer platform with excellent gaming performance.
- Intel Core i7-11700KAlt
Includes integrated graphics for the same performance.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3DAlt
The ultimate gaming CPU for the AM4 platform.
Massive multi-core upgrade via hybrid architecture.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A solid 8-core gaming CPU that offers excellent value by removing integrated graphics, though the lack of Hyper-Threading limits its multi-threaded potential.
Best for: The Intel Core i7-9700F is a processor that only makes sense in the used market today. For gamers on a strict budget who already own a dedicated graphics card, this 8-core chip offers excellent value. Its strong single-core performance ensures high frame rates in most modern games, and the 8 cores provide enough multitasking headroom for streaming or light content creation. However, the lack of Hyper-Threading means it will lag behind newer CPUs in heavily multi-threaded workloads like 3D rendering. Avoid this processor if you do any video editing that relies on Intel Quick Sync Video, as it lacks integrated graphics. When shopping for a used 9700F, ensure you are getting a good deal, as newer 12th Gen i3 and i5 processors often outperform it at similar price points. It is best suited for upgrading older LGA 1151 systems.
Read the full reviewA fast, overclockable CPU that delivers top-tier gaming performance, but runs very hot and requires high-end cooling to reach its full potential.
Best for: Enthusiast upgrading an existing Z590 system with high-end cooling.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-9700F or Intel Core i7-11700KF?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-11700KF leads with a gaming performance score of 90/100 among Intel Core i7-9700F and Intel Core i7-11700KF.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-9700F has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-9700F (65 W), Intel Core i7-11700KF (125 W).
Do Intel Core i7-9700F and Intel Core i7-11700KF use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-9700F: Intel Socket 1151, Intel Core i7-11700KF: LGA 1200), so each needs a compatible motherboard.