Quick Verdict
A unique BGA desktop CPU with exceptional integrated graphics for its era. Perfect for small form factor builds where a discrete GPU isn't possible.
Overview
Launch
2016
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
6th Gen
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core i7-6785R is a specialized desktop processor launched in May 2016 as part of the Skylake-R family. Built on a BGA package, it is soldered directly to the motherboard and primarily intended for All-in-One (AIO) systems, NUCs, and mini PCs. This 14nm quad-core CPU features Hyper-Threading, processing 8 threads simultaneously. It operates at a base clock of 3.3 GHz and boosts up to 3.9 GHz. Its standout feature is the inclusion of Intel Iris Pro Graphics 580, which features 128MB of embedded DRAM (eDRAM), offering significantly better graphics performance than standard Intel HD Graphics. With a 65W TDP, it balances capable processing with powerful integrated graphics. It supports dual-channel DDR4-2133 or DDR3L memory. The i7-6785R is a niche product, ideal for compact systems requiring strong graphical output without the space or power for a discrete GPU, though its BGA nature limits upgradability.
The Core i7-6785R is a niche Skylake-R processor designed for AIOs and mini PCs. With 4 cores and Iris Pro 580 graphics backed by 128MB of eDRAM, it delivers strong graphical performance without a discrete GPU. Its BGA package means it is soldered to the motherboard.
Specifications
Performance
Architecture
14nm
Process Node
Skylake-R
Codename
4C / 8T
Core Config
8 MB
L3 Cache
65 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Core i7-6785R is built on the Skylake-R microarchitecture, utilizing Intel's 14nm process. The 'R' suffix denotes the inclusion of Iris Pro Graphics 580, a significant upgrade over standard HD Graphics. The Iris Pro 580 features 72 Execution Units (EUs) and, crucially, includes 128MB of embedded DRAM (eDRAM) on the processor package. This eDRAM acts as a high-speed L4 cache for both the integrated graphics and the CPU cores, drastically reducing memory latency and boosting graphical performance. The CPU itself features 4 physical cores with Hyper-Threading and 8MB of L3 cache. The integrated memory controller supports both DDR4-2133 and DDR3L-1600, offering flexibility for system builders. Designed for the BGA 1440 socket, it is permanently soldered, emphasizing its purpose for space-constrained designs like NUCs and All-in-One systems rather than DIY desktop builds.
CPU Design
4 cores, 8 threads, locked, BGA package.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR4-2133 or DDR3L-1600.
PCIe & I/O
16 PCIe 3.0 lanes.
Overclocking
Locked multiplier.
- Higher clock speeds
- Skylake architecture improvements
Key Highlights
- Powerful Iris Pro 580 integrated graphics
- 128MB eDRAM boosts CPU and GPU performance
- Low 65W TDP
- Good 3.9 GHz single-core performance
- Soldered BGA package (cannot be upgraded)
- Hard to source for consumers
- Only 4 cores
- Older 14nm process
History
Launched in mid-2016, the Core i7-6785R was a niche but highly interesting product in Intel's 6th Generation Skylake lineup. The 'R' suffix indicated the inclusion of Iris Pro Graphics, a tier of integrated performance Intel rarely brought to the desktop market. By pairing a 4-core, 8-thread Skylake CPU with the Iris Pro 580 and 128MB of embedded DRAM, Intel created a chip capable of respectable 1080p gaming without a discrete GPU.
This processor found its way into premium Small Form Factor (SFF) systems, most notably the 'Skull Canyon' Intel NUC, which targeted enthusiasts who wanted maximum power in a miniature footprint. The 6785R was a technological showcase, proving that integrated graphics could bridge the gap between basic display output and entry-level gaming. However, its BGA soldered nature meant it never caught on in the DIY desktop market.
It remains a cult favorite, representing a brief era where Intel pushed the boundaries of integrated graphics performance on the desktop.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Higher clock speeds
- Skylake architecture improvements
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Not Recommended for the right buyer
Buying a used NUC or AIO with this chip pre-installed
Avoid if…
- You are building a custom PC
- You want a discrete GPU
- You need an upgrade path
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
The Iris Pro 580 was Intel's most powerful integrated graphics until Xe arrived.
The 128MB eDRAM can be used by the CPU as an L4 cache.
It is essentially the chip used in the high-end Intel Skull Canyon NUC.
Supports both DDR4 and DDR3L memory.
Features 72 Execution Units in the iGPU.
Max Tcase is 71°C.
Launched at $370.
Uses the FC-BGA package.
Iris Pro graphics boost up to 1150 MHz.
Does not support vPro.
People Also Ask
Is the i7-6785R good for gaming?
It is capable of light 1080p gaming on low settings thanks to the Iris Pro 580 graphics, better than standard Intel HD graphics.
What is Iris Pro 580?
It is Intel's high-end integrated graphics featuring 72 Execution Units and 128MB of embedded DRAM.
Can the i7-6785R be overclocked?
No, it has a locked multiplier.
What socket does the i7-6785R use?
It uses the Intel BGA 1440 socket and is soldered to the motherboard.
What is the TDP of the i7-6785R?
It has a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 65 Watts.
Does the i7-6785R have integrated graphics?
Yes, it includes Intel Iris Pro Graphics 580.
What is the max turbo of the i7-6785R?
The maximum turbo boost is 3.9 GHz.
Does it support Hyper-Threading?
Yes, it has 4 cores and 8 threads.
What memory does it support?
It supports DDR4-2133 and DDR3L-1600.
What is the L4 cache?
The i7-6785R has 128 MB of eDRAM that acts as an L4 cache for the CPU and GPU.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the base clock?
The base clock is 3.3 GHz.
Does it support PCIe 4.0?
No, it supports PCIe 3.0.
Can it run Windows 11?
Officially unsupported, but workarounds exist.
What is the Tjmax?
The maximum Tcase is 71°C.
What is the L3 cache size?
It has 8 MB of L3 cache.
Does it support Optane Memory?
No, Skylake-R does not support Intel Optane Memory.
Is the i7-6785R unlocked?
No, it has a locked multiplier.
What systems use the i7-6785R?
It was primarily used in the Intel Skull Canyon NUC and high-end All-in-One PCs.
Is it a socketed CPU?
No, it is a BGA chip, meaning it is soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded.
Is it good for video editing?
The Iris Pro graphics and eDRAM give it decent capability for hardware-accelerated 1080p video editing.