CPU Comparison
Core i7-10700 vs Intel Core i7-11700
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-10700 is a mainstream desktop processor from the 10th Gen Comet Lake family, launched in April 2020. It features 8 cores and 16 threads, a significant upgrade over previous i7 desktop models, making it highly capable for both gaming and productivity. Built on Intel's 14nm process, it operates at a 2.9 GHz base clock and boosts up to 4.8 GHz. Unlike the 'F' variant, it includes Intel UHD Graphics 630, allowing basic display output without a dedicated GPU. The 65W TDP rating ensures it runs cool and efficient under normal loads, though it can draw significantly more power during turbo boost. It utilizes the LGA 1200 socket and supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 2933 MT/s. While superseded by newer architectures, it remains a popular choice for budget-oriented builders upgrading older LGA 1201 systems or building entry-level workstations.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
16 threads handle heavy multitasking and office applications flawlessly.
8 cores make quick work of office applications, compilation, and media consumption.
Gaming
Excellent gaming performance when paired with a dedicated GPU.
Holds its own in modern gaming, easily pushing high frame rates when paired with mid-to-high tier GPUs.
Virtualization
8 cores provide ample resources for running multiple VMs.
Solid host for virtual machines thanks to 16 threads and VT-d support.
Efficiency
14nm process is less efficient than modern competitors under heavy load.
14nm node is less efficient than AMD's 7nm parts, drawing more power under load.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration hardware
- Relies on discrete GPU for AI
- Standard CPU vector processing only
- AVX-512 support helps with specific AI workloads
- No dedicated NPU
Content Creation
Gaming
- Strong single-core speeds
- iGPU available for troubleshooting
- PCIe 3.0 only
- Strong single-core boost speeds
- Capable of handling GPU-intensive games
- iGPU allows troubleshooting if GPU fails
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- Includes UHD 630 integrated graphics
- 65W base TDP
- Excellent value in the used market
- Wide motherboard compatibility
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process runs hot under boost
- PCIe 3.0 only
- UHD 630 is very weak for gaming
Pros
- Includes UHD 750 integrated graphics
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- Supports 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Good single-core performance
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process is power-hungry under load
- End-of-life LGA 1200 platform
- Runs warm compared to 10nm chips
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i7-10700
- AMD Ryzen 7 3700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-10400Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-9700Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-10700FAlt
Cheaper if you already own a dedicated GPU.
- Intel Core i5-12400Alt
Newer architecture with better IPC and efficiency.
11th Gen with PCIe 4.0 and AVX-512.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-11700
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-11600KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-11900Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-10700KRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400Alt
Newer architecture, better efficiency, and similar performance.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Better value and power efficiency.
Cheaper if you already own a dedicated GPU.
Compare head-to-headVastly superior multi-core and gaming performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
More efficient 8-core alternative.
Our Verdict on Each
A highly reliable 8-core desktop CPU with integrated graphics, offering great value for general computing and mid-range gaming.
Best for: Building a budget office PC or upgrading an older LGA 1200 system.
Read the full reviewA well-rounded 8-core CPU that offers great everyday performance and integrated graphics, though it lags in efficiency compared to newer generations.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 1200 PC and wanting integrated graphics.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-10700 or Intel Core i7-11700?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-10700 comes out ahead with a score of 8.2/10. 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, Core i7-10700 or Intel Core i7-11700?
For gaming, the Core i7-10700 leads with a gaming performance score of 90/100 among Core i7-10700 and Intel Core i7-11700.
Do Core i7-10700 and Intel Core i7-11700 use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the LGA 1200 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-10700 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-10700 (14,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.