CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-11700KF vs Intel Core i7-12700KF
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-11700KF is a high-performance desktop processor from the Rocket Lake-S generation, released in March 2021. It features 8 cores and 16 threads built on Intel's 14nm process. The 'K' signifies an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, while the 'F' indicates the absence of integrated graphics. Operating at a base clock of 3.6 GHz and boosting up to 5.0 GHz, it is designed for enthusiasts who prioritize raw frequency and tuning. With a TDP of 125W, it requires robust cooling. The processor includes 16 MB of L3 cache and supports 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes, ensuring maximum bandwidth for multiple GPUs and fast storage. The 11700KF caters to gamers and overclockers who want top-tier single-core speeds and multi-core grunt without paying for integrated graphics they won't use.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
8 cores at 5.0 GHz make short work of compilation and rendering tasks.
Rips through heavy multi-threaded tasks like video encoding.
Gaming
Outstanding gaming performance, easily pushing 240Hz+ in esports titles when paired with fast RAM and a high-end GPU.
Identical gaming performance to the i7-12700K, limited only by GPU power.
Virtualization
Strong core count and clock speeds provide excellent VM performance.
Easily handles multiple VMs with 20 processing threads.
Efficiency
The 14nm process at 125W+ is highly inefficient and generates massive heat under load.
High power draw under load requires a robust PSU and cooler.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- AVX-512 accelerates specific workloads
- High clock speeds help with CPU-based inference
- Requires discrete GPU for AI training
- CPU can handle light inference tasks
Content Creation
Gaming
- 5.0 GHz boost is excellent for CPU-bound games
- PCIe 4.0 ensures zero GPU bottlenecks
- Requires a dedicated GPU
- Requires discrete GPU
- 5.0 GHz boost provides extreme single-core speed
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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
Pros
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Slightly cheaper than the K variant
- 5.0 GHz max boost clock
- 20 PCIe lanes (Gen 5 & 4)
- Incredible multi-core performance
Cons
- No integrated graphics
- Does not include a stock cooler
- High power consumption under max load
Competitors & Alternatives
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
Intel Core i7-12700KF
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-12600KFRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 7700XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-12900KFRival
Desktop
Get this if you want the integrated graphics as a backup.
Compare head-to-headNewer 13th gen offering better performance for similar price.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A 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 reviewThe best value for pure enthusiasts. Delivers maximum unlocked CPU performance and saves money by dropping the iGPU.
Best for: Enthusiast gaming and overclocking builds using a dedicated GPU.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-11700KF or Intel Core i7-12700KF?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-12700KF comes out ahead with a score of 9.1/10. 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 i7-11700KF or Intel Core i7-12700KF?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-12700KF leads with a gaming performance score of 95/100 among Intel Core i7-11700KF and Intel Core i7-12700KF.
Do Intel Core i7-11700KF and Intel Core i7-12700KF use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-11700KF: LGA 1200, Intel Core i7-12700KF: LGA 1700), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-12700KF has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i7-11700KF (8 cores), Intel Core i7-12700KF (12 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-12700KF posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-12700KF (34,200). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.