CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-11700F vs Intel Core i7-11700KF
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-11700F is a standard desktop processor from the Rocket Lake-S generation, launched in March 2021. It features 8 cores and 16 threads built on Intel's 14nm process. The 'F' suffix denotes the absence of integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU for display output. With a base clock of 2.5 GHz and a maximum turbo of 4.9 GHz, it delivers solid performance for gaming and productivity. The processor includes 16 MB of L3 cache and supports 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes, providing excellent bandwidth for modern graphics cards and NVMe SSDs. Operating at a 65W TDP, it balances power consumption and performance, making it suitable for mid-tower builds with adequate cooling. The 11700F is a cost-effective option for users who already own a dedicated GPU and want strong multi-core capabilities without paying extra for onboard graphics.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
8 cores handle standard productivity and multi-threaded rendering tasks efficiently.
8 cores at 5.0 GHz make short work of compilation and rendering tasks.
Gaming
Performs well in modern titles, though slightly behind AMD's 5800X in heavily multi-threaded games.
Outstanding gaming performance, easily pushing 240Hz+ in esports titles when paired with fast RAM and a high-end GPU.
Virtualization
16 threads and AVX-512 make it a solid host for local virtual machines.
Strong core count and clock speeds provide excellent VM performance.
Efficiency
The 14nm process is power-hungry compared to competing 7nm AMD chips.
The 14nm process at 125W+ is highly inefficient and generates massive heat under load.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- AVX-512 support aids CPU-based AI tasks
- No dedicated AI hardware
- AVX-512 accelerates specific workloads
- High clock speeds help with CPU-based inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Strong single-core boost clocks
- PCIe 4.0 prevents GPU bottlenecks
- Requires a dedicated GPU to function
- 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
- Cheaper than the non-F variant
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Solid 4.9 GHz boost clock
Cons
- No integrated graphics (requires discrete GPU)
- 14nm process runs hot under load
- End-of-life LGA 1200 platform
- Locked multiplier
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 i7-11700F
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-11600KFRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11700KFRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 3700XRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Newer architecture, better gaming performance, and similar price.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Better value and power efficiency.
Includes integrated graphics for system troubleshooting.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
More efficient 8-core alternative.
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 CPU for users who already have a dedicated GPU, offering good value, though newer 12th gen chips perform significantly better.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 1200 system on a budget.
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 better, Intel Core i7-11700F or Intel Core i7-11700KF?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-11700KF 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 i7-11700F or Intel Core i7-11700KF?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-11700KF leads with a gaming performance score of 90/100 among Intel Core i7-11700F and Intel Core i7-11700KF.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-11700F has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-11700F (65 W), Intel Core i7-11700KF (125 W).
Do Intel Core i7-11700F and Intel Core i7-11700KF use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the LGA 1200 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.