Quick Verdict
A reliable and efficient quad-core CPU that was the gold standard for mainstream desktop computing in 2015, still capable of basic tasks today.
Overview
Launch
Jul 1st, 2015
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
Core i7 (Skylake)
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core i7-6700 is a mainstream quad-core desktop processor that served as the backbone of the 6th Generation Skylake lineup. Released in 2015, it brought incremental but meaningful improvements over the previous Haswell generation, including higher IPC, improved integrated graphics, and the introduction of DDR4 memory support to the mainstream market. Operating at a base clock of 3.4 GHz and boosting up to 4.0 GHz, it delivered strong single-threaded performance ideal for gaming and everyday productivity. With four cores and eight threads, it handled the multitasking demands of the era effectively. The 65-watt TDP ensured it ran efficiently and coolly, making it a staple in millions of office and home PCs worldwide. The inclusion of Intel HD Graphics 530 allowed for smooth 4K video playback and basic media tasks without requiring a discrete GPU, cementing its reputation as a versatile, do-it-all processor for mainstream users.
The Intel Core i7-6700 is a 6th Gen Skylake processor with 4 cores and 8 threads. It features a base clock of 3.4 GHz and boosts up to 4.
0 GHz. With a 65W TDP, it is highly efficient and remains capable for everyday computing and light gaming.
Specifications
Performance
Handles office workloads and multitasking without issues.
Capable of running 1-2 light VMs.
Good for 60fps gaming with a discrete GPU, but struggles with modern high-refresh titles.
Highly efficient 65W design.
- •Needs a discrete GPU for modern gaming
- •Quad-core design is aging for new AAA games
- •Great for older or esports titles
- •No AI hardware
- •CPU inference is slow
Architecture
14nm
Process Node
Skylake
Codename
4C / 8T
Core Config
8 MB
L3 Cache
65 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
Built on Intel's 14nm Skylake microarchitecture, the Core i7-6700 represents a "tock" in Intel's traditional tick-tock cycle, introducing a new architecture on an existing process node. It features a 4-core, 8-thread design utilizing Hyper-Threading. The architecture boasts 8 MB of L3 SmartCache, enabling efficient data sharing between cores. A defining feature of Skylake was its dual-memory controller, supporting both DDR3L 1600 MT/s and DDR4 2133 MT/s, which allowed motherboard manufacturers to choose their preferred memory standard during the transition period. The processor offers 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes for direct GPU and storage connectivity. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 features Gen 9 architecture, offering significant improvements in multimedia decoding over prior generations. Tuned for a 65W TDP, the architecture balances power draw and thermal output, utilizing Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 to dynamically scale frequencies up to 4.0 GHz when thermal headroom permits, ensuring snappy performance for bursty workloads.
CPU Design
4 cores, 8 threads, locked multiplier.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR3L or DDR4-2133.
PCIe & I/O
16 PCIe 3.0 lanes.
Overclocking
Not supported.
- DDR4 memory support
- Improved IPC
- New LGA 1151 socket
Key Highlights
- Excellent power efficiency (65W)
- Solid single-core performance
- Supports DDR4 memory
- Good integrated graphics
- Only 4 cores
- Locked multiplier
- No PCIe 4.0
- Outdated platform
History
Launched in July 2015, the Core i7-6700 marked a significant milestone in mainstream desktop computing as the flagship of the Skylake generation. It arrived at a time when the PC market was highly competitive, and users were eager for the transition to DDR4 memory and the new LGA 1151 socket. The 6700 quickly became the "sweet spot" processor for gamers and professionals alike, offering excellent performance without the premium price of the unlocked 6700K.
It powered countless pre-built systems and custom rigs, establishing Skylake as a highly successful and long-lasting platform. During its reign, quad-core processors were the gold standard for mainstream computing, and the 6700 handled everything from 1080p gaming to moderate content creation with ease. Its release also solidified Intel's dominance in the desktop market before AMD's Ryzen architecture would eventually disrupt the core count status quo a few years later.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- DDR4 memory support
- Improved IPC
- New LGA 1151 socket
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
Upgrading an older LGA 1151 system for budget 1080p gaming.
Avoid if…
- Building a new system from scratch
- Modern AAA gaming
- Heavy content creation
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
It was the standard CPU for millions of office PCs in 2015-2016.
Introduced the LGA 1151 socket.
Supports both DDR3L and DDR4 memory.
Includes Intel SGX for secure computing.
Has a tCase max of 71°C.
Launched in July 2015.
Features 8 MB of L3 cache.
Includes a bundled stock cooler.
Part number SR2L2.
Supports vPro for enterprise environments.
People Also Ask
Is the i7-6700 good for gaming?
It can handle 60fps gaming with a GPU, but struggles with modern high-refresh titles.
Can the i7-6700 be overclocked?
No, the multiplier is locked.
What socket does the i7-6700 use?
It uses the LGA 1151 socket.
Does the i7-6700 support DDR4?
Yes, it supports both DDR3L and DDR4.
What is the TDP of i7-6700?
65 Watts.
Does it have integrated graphics?
Yes, Intel HD Graphics 530.
How many cores does it have?
4 cores and 8 threads.
Can it run Windows 11?
Officially not supported, but runs perfectly fine.
Does it come with a cooler?
Yes, it includes a stock Intel cooler.
What is the max turbo frequency?
4.0 GHz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the i7-6700 support Hyper-Threading?
Yes, 4 cores and 8 threads.
Does it support ECC memory?
No, ECC is not supported.
What is the L3 cache size?
8 MB.
What chipsets are compatible?
Intel 100 Series and 200 Series.
Is it good for video editing?
Only for basic 1080p editing. 4K will be slow.
Can it output 4K @ 60Hz?
Yes, via DisplayPort or HDMI 2.0.
Does it support Intel Optane?
No, Optane support started with 7th Gen.
What is the base clock?
3.4 GHz.
Does it have vPro?
Yes, this SKU supports vPro.
Is it unlocked?
No.