CPU Comparison
Core i7-10700 vs Core i7-11700K
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 It utilizes the LGA 1200 socket and supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 2933 MT/s. While superseded by newer architectures, it remains a popular choice for budget-oriented builders upgrading older LGA 1201 systems or building entry-level workstations.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.
Strong application performance thanks to high clocks and IPC improvements.
Gaming
Excellent gaming performance when paired with a dedicated GPU.
Excellent 1080p and 1440p gaming performance, trading blows with AMD's Ryzen 7 5800X.
Virtualization
8 cores provide ample resources for running multiple VMs.
16 threads handle virtualization well, but lacks quad-channel memory of HEDT.
Efficiency
14nm process is less efficient than modern competitors under heavy load.
Power draw can exceed 250W under all-core load; efficiency lags behind TSMC 7nm nodes.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI acceleration hardware
- Relies on discrete GPU for AI
- Standard CPU vector processing only
- AVX-512 support accelerates specific workloads
- DL Boost for AI inference
- Limited by 14nm power scaling under sustained load
Content Creation
Gaming
- Strong single-core speeds
- iGPU available for troubleshooting
- PCIe 3.0 only
- Exceptional single-core speed
- Low latency for competitive gaming
- PCIe 4.0 benefits high-end GPUs
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
- Excellent single-core and gaming performance
- 19% IPC uplift over 10th Gen
- 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes for storage and GPUs
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Drop-in upgrade for LGA 1200 motherboards
- AVX-512 instruction support
Cons
- High power consumption under multi-core loads
- Runs very hot under heavy stress
- 14nm process is stretched to its limits
- End-of-life platform with no future upgrade path
- Stock cooler not included
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
Core i7-11700K
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-11900KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-11600KRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XRival
Desktop
Better efficiency, more cores, and DDR5 support.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X3DAlt
Superior gaming performance with 3D V-Cache.
- Intel Core i5-12400Alt
Incredible budget value with similar gaming performance.
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600Alt
Modern AM5 platform with great efficiency.
Massive multi-core and gaming leap over 11700K.
Compare head-to-head
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 powerful 8-core CPU with excellent single-core speeds and PCIe 4.0, though its 14nm process runs hot and draws significant power under heavy load.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 1200 system without buying a new motherboard.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i7-10700 or Core i7-11700K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-11700K comes out ahead with a score of 8.5/10. 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, Core i7-10700 or Core i7-11700K?
For gaming, the Core i7-11700K leads with a gaming performance score of 92/100 among Core i7-10700 and Core i7-11700K.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-10700 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i7-10700 (65 W), Core i7-11700K (125 W).
Do Core i7-10700 and Core i7-11700K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i7-10700: LGA 1200, Core i7-11700K: Intel Socket 1200), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-11700K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i7-10700 (14,500), Core i7-11700K (18,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.