CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-9800X vs Intel Core i7-7820X
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.
Strong multi-threaded throughput in CINEBENCH, HandBrake, and similar workloads at launch; still competent for many content creation tasks compared to modern mainstream parts.
Gaming
Good gaming performance, though newer mainstream CPUs often outperform it in single-core.
Delivers high frame rates in 2017-era titles and remains adequate for modern gaming, but newer gaming-focused CPUs with higher clocks and improved IPC pull ahead.
Virtualization
44 PCIe lanes and 16 threads make it ideal for complex virtualization setups.
PCIe and memory bandwidth are helpful for multiple VMs, but core count is moderate for modern heavy virtualization needs.
Efficiency
165W TDP and 14nm process result in high power consumption and heat.
High 140 W TDP and 14 nm process lead to greater power consumption versus newer 7 nm and smaller nodes.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- AVX-512 instructions accelerate certain AI workloads
- High core count aids CPU-based inference
- No dedicated AI acceleration hardware
- AVX-512 can help certain CPU-bound inference tasks
- Most modern AI workloads are better served by GPUs
Content Creation
Gaming
- Strong frequency for gaming
- PCIe lanes allow for multiple GPUs
- Not the best choice for purely gaming due to HEDT latency
- Capable of high-refresh gaming with a strong GPU
- Single-core boost reaches up to 4.5 GHz on favored cores
- Modern CPUs offer better gaming efficiency and higher IPC
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
- 8 cores and 16 threads for multi-threaded workloads
- Quad-channel DDR4 memory increases bandwidth
- 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes plus chipset lanes for expansion
- Turbo Boost Max 3.0 for higher single-core boosts
- AVX-512 support for optimized workloads
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
Cons
- High 140 W TDP and power consumption
- No integrated graphics
- Only 28 CPU PCIe lanes, limiting multi-GPU configurations
- Discontinued platform with limited future upgrades
- Older 14 nm process versus modern smaller nodes
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 i7-7820X
- AMD Ryzen 7 1800XRival
Creator/Gaming
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700XRival
Creator/Gaming
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1920XRival
Workstation
- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 1950XRival
Workstation
- RivalCompare head-to-head
More cores, higher efficiency, and DDR5 on a modern mainstream platform.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 7900Alt
Strong multi-threaded performance with excellent efficiency.
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900XAlt
12-core AM4 option with strong gaming and creator performance.
High-performance mainstream platform with good upgrade path.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen Threadripper 2950X (used)Alt
Higher core and lane count for workstation-class workloads.
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 reviewA competent eight-core HEDT chip with strong multi-threaded performance and platform expansion, though high power draw and limited PCIe lanes compared to higher-tier X299 CPUs make it a niche choice today.
Best for: Used-market upgrade for an existing X299 build with quad-channel DDR4 and a need for more cores than mainstream.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-9800X or Intel Core i7-7820X?
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 i7-7820X?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-9800X leads with a gaming performance score of 80/100 among Intel Core i7-9800X and Intel Core i7-7820X.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-7820X has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-9800X (165 W), Intel Core i7-7820X (140 W).
Do Intel Core i7-9800X and Intel Core i7-7820X use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-9800X: Intel Socket 2066, Intel Core i7-7820X: LGA2066), so each needs a compatible motherboard.