Quick Verdict
An outstanding 35W processor that doesn't compromise on core count, perfect for silent builds requiring strong multi-threaded capability.
Overview
Launch
Apr 2nd, 2018
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
Core i7 (Coffee Lake)
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core i7-8700T is a low-power desktop processor that brings hexa-core computing to the 35-watt thermal envelope, making it an excellent choice for small form factor PCs and All-in-One systems. Released as part of the 8th Generation Coffee Lake lineup, it features six cores and twelve threads, offering substantial multi-threaded performance without the heat generation of standard desktop chips. It operates at a base clock of 2.4 GHz and can turbo boost up to 4.0 GHz, providing a good balance between steady-state efficiency and burst performance. The inclusion of Intel UHD Graphics 630 ensures smooth 4K video playback and basic display capabilities without requiring a dedicated graphics card. This processor is tailored for environments where space is at a premium and quiet operation is desired, allowing system builders to create highly compact machines capable of handling intensive productivity tasks, light content creation, and multitasking with remarkable energy efficiency.
The Intel Core i7-8700T is a Coffee Lake desktop processor with 6 cores and 12 threads. It features a base clock of 2.4 GHz and boosts up to 4.
0 GHz. The 35W TDP allows it to be used in fanless or small form factor designs where standard 65W CPUs would overheat.
Specifications
Performance
Handles heavy office workloads and multitasking smoothly.
Excellent for running multiple light VMs.
Good gaming performance when paired with a mid-range GPU.
One of the most efficient hexa-core desktop chips of its era.
- •Best paired with GTX 1660 or RTX 3060 class GPUs
- •Low base clock won't bottleneck as much due to high turbo
- •Great for SFF gaming
- •No dedicated AI hardware
- •CPU inference is decent due to 12 threads
Architecture
14nm
Process Node
Coffee Lake
Codename
6C / 12T
Core Config
12 MB
L3 Cache
35 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Core i7-8700T is fabricated on Intel's 14nm process and utilizes the Coffee Lake microarchitecture. It features six cores and twelve threads, sharing 12 MB of L3 SmartCache to minimize latency and maximize data throughput. Designed for the LGA 1151 socket, it supports dual-channel DDR4 memory at 2666 MT/s. The architecture provides 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes for direct CPU-to-peripheral communication. What differentiates the 8700T is its silicon binning and power tuning. Engineered for a strict 35W TDP, the architecture employs aggressive power gating and conservative voltage curves compared to its 65W counterpart. Despite the low power target, the turbo boost architecture allows single-core workloads to reach 4.0 GHz, ensuring snappy system responsiveness. The integrated UHD Graphics 630 features dynamic frequency scaling, operating efficiently within the strict thermal limits. This combination of hexa-core density and low-power tuning makes it uniquely suited for thermally constrained desktop environments.
CPU Design
6 cores, 12 threads, binned for 35W.
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
- Extremely low 35W TDP
- 6 cores and 12 threads
- High 4.0 GHz turbo boost
- Great for passive cooling
- Locked multiplier
- Lower base clock
- Hard to find retail
- 14nm process is outdated
History
Launched in April 2018, the Core i7-8700T arrived as Intel expanded its Coffee Lake desktop family to cater to the small form factor and All-in-One PC markets. During this period, the industry was seeing a shift towards smaller, more energy-efficient systems, driven by advancements in component miniaturization. Intel's previous low-power i7 offerings were often quad-core, but the competitive pressure from AMD's Ryzen processors necessitated an increase in core counts across all segments.
The i7-8700T was significant because it proved that a 35W processor could still deliver the six-core, twelve-thread configuration of the flagship i7-8700, albeit at lower frequencies. This allowed manufacturers like Dell, HP, and Lenovo to design ultra-compact mini PCs and sleek AIOs that didn't compromise heavily on multi-threaded performance. It marked a turning point where small form factor desktops could legitimately handle intensive office workloads and light creative tasks previously reserved for full-sized towers.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Two additional cores
- Four additional threads
- Higher turbo boost
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
Building a Small Form Factor (SFF) PC for silent operation.
Avoid if…
- Overclocking
- Sustained heavy rendering
- Buying new (outdated platform)
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
It consumes less than half the power of the i7-8700K.
Can be passively cooled in specific Mini-ITX cases.
Features a 154 mm² die size.
Includes Intel AES-NI instructions.
Supports up to 64 PCIe lanes via chipset.
Released in April 2018.
Has a tCase max of 72°C.
UHD 630 supports 4K @ 60Hz.
Often found in business-class mini PCs.
Max memory bandwidth is 42.7 GB/s.
People Also Ask
Is the i7-8700T good for gaming?
Yes, when paired with a mid-range GPU, it handles 1080p and 1440p well.
What is the TDP of i7-8700T?
35 Watts.
Does i7-8700T have integrated graphics?
Yes, Intel UHD Graphics 630.
Can i7-8700T be overclocked?
No, the multiplier is locked.
What is the difference between i7-8700 and i7-8700T?
The 8700T has a 35W TDP and lower clocks compared to the 65W 8700.
Does it support DDR4?
Yes, up to 2666 MT/s.
What socket does it use?
LGA 1151.
Is it good for a NAS?
Excellent, due to low power and 12 threads.
Can it run Windows 11?
Officially not supported, but capable.
What is the max turbo frequency?
4.0 GHz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can the i7-8700T be passively cooled?
Yes, with a large enough passive heatsink case.
Does it support ECC memory?
No, ECC is not supported.
What is the L3 cache size?
12 MB.
Does it include a stock cooler?
Retail boxed versions usually include a low-profile cooler.
What chipsets are compatible?
Intel 300 series (B360, H370, Z390, etc.).
Can it output 4K @ 60Hz?
Yes, via DisplayPort or HDMI 2.0 with UHD 630.
Is it faster than an i5-9400?
Yes, due to Hyper-Threading (12 threads vs 6).
Does it have vPro?
It depends on the specific SKU, but vPro is common on T-series.
What is the base clock?
2.4 GHz.
Does it support Intel Optane?
Yes.