Quick Verdict
A highly capable BGA processor that brought real desktop performance to compact systems like the 2018 Mac mini.
Overview
Launch
Apr 3rd, 2018
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
Core i7 (Coffee Lake)
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core i7-8700B is a unique desktop processor featuring a ball grid array (BGA) packaging, designed specifically for integration into compact systems like the Mac mini and small form factor desktop PCs. Part of the 8th Gen Coffee Lake family, it boasts six cores and twelve threads, delivering robust computing power in a space-constrained form factor. It operates at a base clock of 3.2 GHz and can turbo boost up to 4.6 GHz, mirroring the performance of the socketed i7-8700. The 65-watt TDP ensures it runs efficiently within the tight thermal confines of an Apple chassis or similar mini PC. Integrated UHD Graphics 630 provide capable display outputs for everyday tasks and multimedia consumption. This processor was engineered to offer full desktop-class hexa-core performance without the need for a traditional socketed motherboard, allowing manufacturers to create highly integrated, space-saving systems that do not compromise on processing power.
The Intel Core i7-8700B is a Coffee Lake processor with 6 cores and 12 threads. It features a base clock of 3.2 GHz and boosts up to 4.
6 GHz. Using a BGA 1440 package, it is soldered directly to the motherboard, making it ideal for ultra-compact PCs where space is limited.
Specifications
Performance
Handles compiling, rendering, and multitasking effortlessly.
Great for running VMs in a compact server footprint.
Good for gaming if paired with an eGPU or external monitor.
Optimized power delivery for BGA designs.
- •Relies on eGPU or discrete GPU in chassis
- •UHD 630 only good for light games
- •CPU performance is excellent for gaming
- •No AI hardware
- •12 threads help with CPU inference
Architecture
14nm
Process Node
Coffee Lake
Codename
6C / 12T
Core Config
12 MB
L3 Cache
65 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Core i7-8700B utilizes the Coffee Lake architecture on Intel's 14nm process, but its defining feature is its BGA 1440 package. Unlike traditional LGA CPUs, the 8700B is soldered directly to the motherboard, reducing socket footprint and improving thermals in compact designs. It features six cores and twelve threads, with 12 MB of L3 SmartCache. The architecture supports dual-channel DDR4 memory at 2666 MT/s and offers 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes. Tuned for a 65W TDP, it employs Intel Turbo Boost 2.0 to reach 4.6 GHz on single-core workloads. The integrated UHD Graphics 630 operates dynamically, crucial for systems like the Mac mini that rely solely on integrated graphics for display output. The BGA architecture allows system designers to optimize power delivery circuits tightly around the CPU, ensuring stable performance and efficient heat dissipation in ultra-compact motherboards where standard socketed designs simply cannot fit.
CPU Design
6 cores, 12 threads, soldered BGA.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR4-2666.
PCIe & I/O
16 PCIe 3.0 lanes.
Overclocking
Locked.
- Two additional cores
- Four additional threads
- Higher turbo boost
Key Highlights
- Full desktop performance in BGA form
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- Excellent for compact systems
- Good turbo boost speeds
- Soldered, cannot be upgraded
- Hard to find outside pre-builts
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process is outdated
History
Introduced in April 2018, the Core i7-8700B was famously launched alongside Apple's 2018 Mac mini refresh. For years, the Mac mini had been stuck with outdated dual-core mobile processors, frustrating professional users. Apple and Intel collaborated to create a desktop-class BGA processor that could fit within the Mac mini's small unibody enclosure while delivering the six-core performance of the mainstream Coffee Lake lineup.
This launch was significant as it repositioned the Mac mini as a viable workstation for developers, server farms, and everyday professionals. The i7-8700B proved that compact, integrated systems no longer had to sacrifice high-end CPU performance. It reflected a broader trend in the PC industry where manufacturers sought to shrink desktop footprints without compromising on power.
This processor helped bridge the gap between mobile efficiency and desktop capability, setting a new standard for what premium mini PCs could achieve.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Two additional cores
- Four additional threads
- Higher turbo boost
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
Purchasing a used 2018 Mac mini for a home server or dev machine.
Avoid if…
- Building a custom PC
- Overclocking
- Need PCIe 4.0
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
It is primarily known for powering the 2018 Mac mini.
Uses the FCBGA1440 socket.
Features a 154 mm² die.
Despite being BGA, it matches the i7-8700's clocks.
Includes Intel AES-NI.
Released in April 2018.
Supports dual-channel DDR4.
UHD 630 supports 4K @ 60Hz.
Consumes 65W.
Cannot be overclocked.
People Also Ask
What is the i7-8700B?
It is a BGA (soldered) version of the i7-8700 used in compact PCs like the Mac mini.
Can the i7-8700B be upgraded?
No, it is soldered to the motherboard.
Is the i7-8700B good for gaming?
The CPU is, but it needs an eGPU for serious gaming.
What Mac uses the i7-8700B?
The 2018 Mac mini.
What is the TDP of i7-8700B?
65 Watts.
Does it have integrated graphics?
Yes, Intel UHD Graphics 630.
What socket does it use?
FCBGA1440.
How many cores does it have?
6 cores and 12 threads.
Is it faster than the i7-8700?
No, the performance is essentially identical.
What is the max turbo?
4.6 GHz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the i7-8700B support PCIe 4.0?
No, it supports PCIe 3.0.
Is it good for video editing?
Yes, especially in Final Cut Pro on a Mac mini.
Does it support ECC?
No.
Can it run Windows 11?
Officially not supported.
Does it support DDR4?
Yes, up to 2666 MT/s.
What is the base clock?
3.2 GHz.
Does it have Hyper-Threading?
Yes.
Is it unlocked?
No.
Does it support Optane?
Yes.
What is the L3 cache?
12 MB.