Quick Verdict
A well-rounded 8-core CPU that offers great everyday performance and integrated graphics, though it lags in efficiency compared to newer generations.
Overview
Launch
Mar 16th, 2021
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
11th Generation
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core i7-11700 is a mainstream desktop processor launched in March 2021 as part of the Rocket Lake-S family. It features 8 cores and 16 threads built on a 14nm process. With a base clock of 2.5 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 4.9 GHz, it delivers robust performance for both gaming and productivity tasks. The processor includes 16 MB of L3 cache and supports 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes for high-speed connectivity. Unlike the 'F' variant, it includes integrated UHD Graphics 750, allowing for system operation without a dedicated GPU. Operating at a 65W TDP, it balances power and thermal output, making it suitable for a wide range of desktop chassis. The 11700 is a versatile chip, ideal for users who need strong multi-core performance and the safety net of integrated graphics.
The i7-11700 strikes a balance between price and performance. Its 8 Cypress Cove cores reach up to 4.9 GHz, handling gaming and productivity with ease.
The inclusion of UHD Graphics 750 means you can build a system without a dedicated GPU for basic tasks. It's a solid, reliable chip for the LGA 1200 platform.
Specifications
Performance
8 cores make quick work of office applications, compilation, and media consumption.
Solid host for virtual machines thanks to 16 threads and VT-d support.
Holds its own in modern gaming, easily pushing high frame rates when paired with mid-to-high tier GPUs.
14nm node is less efficient than AMD's 7nm parts, drawing more power under load.
- •Strong single-core boost speeds
- •Capable of handling GPU-intensive games
- •iGPU allows troubleshooting if GPU fails
- •AVX-512 support helps with specific AI workloads
- •No dedicated NPU
Architecture
14nm
Process Node
Rocket Lake
Codename
8C / 16T
Core Config
16 MB
L3 Cache
65 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
Rocket Lake-S brings the Cypress Cove microarchitecture to the 14nm process.
CPU Design
The Core i7-11700 features 8 Cypress Cove cores, delivering a significant IPC uplift over the previous Comet Lake generation.
Memory Subsystem
This architecture also debuts PCIe 4.0 support on the consumer desktop platform, offering 20 lanes for faster GPU and SSD communication.
PCIe & I/O
The integrated UHD Graphics 750 utilizes Intel's Xe architecture with 32 Execution Units, providing competent performance for basic display tasks and light media encoding.
Overclocking
The dual-channel DDR4-3200 memory controller ensures solid memory bandwidth. The 65W TDP ensures the chip runs cool under normal loads, with aggressive turbo boosting for short bursts.
- Higher IPC via Cypress Cove
- PCIe 4.0 support
- Upgraded Xe integrated graphics
Key Highlights
- Includes UHD 750 integrated graphics
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- Supports 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Good single-core performance
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process is power-hungry under load
- End-of-life LGA 1200 platform
- Runs warm compared to 10nm chips
History
Launched in March 2021, the Core i7-11700 was Intel's primary mainstream offering in the 11th Gen Rocket Lake desktop lineup. It arrived during a fierce battle with AMD's Ryzen 5000 processors. Rocket Lake was essentially a backport of 10nm Ice Lake architecture to the 14nm node, serving as a stopgap before the 10nm Alder Lake release.
The 11700 provided a balanced approach, offering 8 cores and integrated graphics at a 65W TDP, making it the go-to choice for pre-built systems and standard DIY builds. While it couldn't quite match AMD in multi-threaded efficiency, it introduced PCIe 4.0 to the mainstream market and offered solid gaming performance.
The 11700 represents the final iteration of Intel's long-standing 14nm desktop architecture before the company transitioned to the hybrid big.LITTLE design.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Higher IPC via Cypress Cove
- PCIe 4.0 support
- Upgraded Xe integrated graphics
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
Upgrading an existing LGA 1200 PC and wanting integrated graphics.
Avoid if…
- Building a brand new PC from scratch
- Wanting to overclock
- Requiring maximum power efficiency
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
8 cores and 16 threads.
Base clock 2.5 GHz, boost 4.9 GHz.
Includes UHD Graphics 750.
65W TDP.
14nm Rocket Lake architecture.
20 PCIe 4.0 lanes.
Fits LGA 1200 socket.
Released March 2021.
16 MB L3 cache.
Supports DDR4-3200 memory.
People Also Ask
Is the 11700 good for gaming?
Yes, excellent with modern GPUs for 1080p and 1440p gaming.
Can I use it without a GPU?
Yes, it has UHD 750 integrated graphics.
Does it support DDR5?
No, it only supports DDR4 memory.
What is the difference between 11700 and 11700K?
The K is unlocked, has a higher TDP, and boosts higher.
Is it good for video editing?
Yes, 8 cores handle video editing software well.
What motherboards work with it?
Z590, B560, H570, and older 400 series boards.
Does it have AVX-512?
Yes, it supports AVX-512 instructions.
Is it better than 10700?
Yes, higher IPC and PCIe 4.0 support.
What is the base clock?
The base clock is 2.5 GHz.
Can it run Windows 11?
Yes, it is fully compatible.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you overclock the 11700?
No, it is a locked processor.
Does it have integrated graphics?
Yes, it has Intel UHD Graphics 750.
What is the turbo speed?
The maximum turbo speed is 4.9 GHz.
What is the TDP?
The TDP is 65 Watts.
What socket does it use?
It uses the LGA 1200 socket.
Does it support PCIe 4.0?
Yes, it has 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes.
What gen is it?
It is an 11th Gen Rocket Lake processor.
How much L3 cache?
It has 16 MB of L3 cache.
When was it released?
It was released in March 2021.
Does it include a cooler?
Yes, a stock cooler is included.