CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-9800X vs Intel Core i7-7800X
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-9800X is a high-end desktop (HEDT) processor launched in October 2018 as part of the 9th Generation X-Series lineup. Built on the Skylake-X microarchitecture and utilizing Intel's 14nm process, this processor is designed for enthusiasts, content creators, and professionals requiring immense multi-threaded performance. It features 8 physical cores and supports 16 threads via Hyper-Threading. Operating at a base clock of 3.8 GHz and boosting up to 4.5 GHz, it delivers strong single-core responsiveness alongside its multi-core prowess. A standout feature is its 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes, enabling massive expansion capabilities for multiple GPUs and high-speed NVMe storage arrays. It also supports quad-channel DDR4 memory, providing exceptional memory bandwidth. Unlike mainstream desktop chips, the i7-9800X lacks integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU. With a 165W TDP, it demands robust cooling and power delivery. It remains a capable workstation chip for users needing extensive I/O and parallel processing power.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Excellent multi-core performance for creator applications and heavy multitasking.
Handles multi-threaded productivity tasks reasonably well, though newer platforms overtake it in performance-per-watt.
Gaming
Good gaming performance, though newer mainstream CPUs often outperform it in single-core.
Adequate for 1080p and 1440p with a strong GPU, but modern gaming CPUs deliver higher frame rates and better efficiency.
Virtualization
44 PCIe lanes and 16 threads make it ideal for complex virtualization setups.
Quad-channel memory and 12 threads suit multiple VMs and developer workloads.
Efficiency
165W TDP and 14nm process result in high power consumption and heat.
High power draw relative to performance makes it less efficient than current-generation chips.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- AVX-512 instructions accelerate certain AI workloads
- High core count aids CPU-based inference
- AVX-512 accelerates some inference workloads on CPU
- No dedicated NPU or matrix engines
- Suitable only for light or experimental AI workloads
Content Creation
Gaming
- Strong frequency for gaming
- PCIe lanes allow for multiple GPUs
- Not the best choice for purely gaming due to HEDT latency
- Supports high-refresh gaming with capable GPUs
- Lacks the single-thread uplift of newer architectures
- Requires discrete graphics
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 44 PCIe 3.0 lanes
- Quad-channel memory support
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Strong multi-threaded performance
Cons
- High 165W TDP
- 14nm process is inefficient
- No integrated graphics
- Expensive platform (X299)
Pros
- Quad-channel DDR4 memory
- Unlocked for overclocking
- AVX-512 support
- 12 threads for multi-threaded workloads
- 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes from CPU
Cons
- No integrated graphics
- Higher power consumption relative to modern CPUs
- Only 28 PCIe lanes vs higher-tier X-series SKUs
- Discontinued platform with limited upgrade path
- Memory officially limited to DDR4-2400
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-9800X
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Threadripper 2920XRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-7820XRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 9 3900XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-7900XRival
High-End Desktop
10th Gen refresh with slightly better performance and thermals.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 5950XAlt
Vastly superior efficiency and multi-core performance on a modern platform.
Modern mainstream CPU that outperforms it in almost every metric.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Threadripper 3960XAlt
Much higher core count for professional HEDT workloads.
Better gaming performance and efficiency at a lower price.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-7800X
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700Rival
Creator
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
Creator
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920XRival
Workstation
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950XRival
Workstation
- RivalCompare head-to-head
Higher gaming performance on mainstream platform with lower power draw.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 3900XAlt
More cores, higher efficiency, and newer platform with PCIe 4.0 support.
Strong single-thread performance suitable for gaming and productivity.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XAlt
Modern Zen 3 architecture with excellent single and multi-threaded performance.
Current-gen hybrid architecture with high core counts and PCIe 5.0.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A powerful HEDT processor offering excellent PCIe expansion and quad-channel memory, though its high TDP and older 14nm process make it less efficient than modern alternatives.
Best for: If you are considering the Intel Core i7-9800X today, it should strictly be viewed as a budget option for a used workstation build. Its 8 cores, 44 PCIe lanes, and quad-channel memory support make it highly capable for 3D rendering, complex virtualization, and heavy multitasking. However, the 165W TDP means you will need a robust power supply and high-end cooling solution. Avoid this processor if your primary goal is gaming, as mainstream CPUs offer better single-core performance and efficiency at a lower price point. It is best suited for creators who need massive PCIe expansion on a budget and are comfortable building on a refurbished X299 platform. For new builds, modern platforms offer significantly better performance per watt.
Read the full reviewThe i7-7800X offers quad-channel memory and decent multi-core performance for its era, but higher power draw and limited PCIe lanes make it a niche choice today versus modern mainstream platforms.
Best for: Budget upgrade on existing X299 platform with DDR4 investment
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-9800X or Intel Core i7-7800X?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-9800X comes out ahead with a score of 8/10. 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 i7-9800X or Intel Core i7-7800X?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-9800X leads with a gaming performance score of 80/100 among Intel Core i7-9800X and Intel Core i7-7800X.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-7800X has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-9800X (165 W), Intel Core i7-7800X (140 W).
Do Intel Core i7-9800X and Intel Core i7-7800X use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-9800X: Intel Socket 2066, Intel Core i7-7800X: LGA2066), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-9800X has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i7-9800X (8 cores), Intel Core i7-7800X (6 cores).