Quick Verdict
A solid 8-core CPU for users who already have a dedicated GPU, offering good value, though newer 12th gen chips perform significantly better.
Overview
Launch
Mar 16th, 2021
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
11th Generation
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core i7-11700F is a standard desktop processor from the Rocket Lake-S generation, launched in March 2021. It features 8 cores and 16 threads built on Intel's 14nm process. The 'F' suffix denotes the absence of integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU for display output. With a base clock of 2.5 GHz and a maximum turbo of 4.9 GHz, it delivers solid performance for gaming and productivity. The processor includes 16 MB of L3 cache and supports 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes, providing excellent bandwidth for modern graphics cards and NVMe SSDs. Operating at a 65W TDP, it balances power consumption and performance, making it suitable for mid-tower builds with adequate cooling. The 11700F is a cost-effective option for users who already own a dedicated GPU and want strong multi-core capabilities without paying extra for onboard graphics.
By omitting integrated graphics, the i7-11700F passes savings to the user while retaining the full 8-core Cypress Cove architecture. It boosts up to 4.9 GHz and features 20 PCIe 4.
0 lanes. It is a great choice for budget-conscious gamers building on the LGA 1200 platform who already own a dedicated graphics card.
Specifications
Performance
8 cores handle standard productivity and multi-threaded rendering tasks efficiently.
16 threads and AVX-512 make it a solid host for local virtual machines.
Performs well in modern titles, though slightly behind AMD's 5800X in heavily multi-threaded games.
The 14nm process is power-hungry compared to competing 7nm AMD chips.
- •Strong single-core boost clocks
- •PCIe 4.0 prevents GPU bottlenecks
- •Requires a dedicated GPU to function
- •AVX-512 support aids CPU-based AI tasks
- •No dedicated AI hardware
Architecture
14nm
Process Node
Rocket Lake
Codename
8C / 16T
Core Config
16 MB
L3 Cache
65 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
Rocket Lake-S introduces the Cypress Cove microarchitecture to the 14nm desktop platform.
CPU Design
The Core i7-11700F utilizes 8 Cypress Cove cores, which bring substantial IPC improvements over the previous Skylake-derived Comet Lake architecture.
Memory Subsystem
A critical enhancement is the inclusion of 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes, doubling the bandwidth available to GPUs and storage devices.
PCIe & I/O
Because it is an 'F' SKU, the Xe-based UHD Graphics are disabled, dedicating all thermal and power headroom to the CPU cores.
Overclocking
The dual-channel memory controller supports DDR4-3200. The 65W TDP allows for moderate base clocks, with aggressive turbo algorithms pushing frequencies up to 4.9 GHz on lightly threaded workloads.
- Higher IPC via Cypress Cove
- PCIe 4.0 support added
- Improved turbo boost algorithms
Key Highlights
- Cheaper than the non-F variant
- 8 cores and 16 threads
- 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes
- Solid 4.9 GHz boost clock
- No integrated graphics (requires discrete GPU)
- 14nm process runs hot under load
- End-of-life LGA 1200 platform
- Locked multiplier
History
Released in March 2021, the Core i7-11700F was part of Intel's 11th Gen desktop family. Rocket Lake was a transitional architecture, serving as Intel's response to AMD's Ryzen 5000 series while the company finalized its 10nm Alder Lake desktop chips. The 11700F targeted the mainstream gaming and creator market, offering 8 cores at a lower price point by omitting integrated graphics.
This strategy appealed to users who already relied on discrete GPUs, saving them money. Despite being built on the aging 14nm node, the introduction of PCIe 4.0 and Cypress Cove's IPC gains made the 11700F a competitive option against AMD's Ryzen 7 5800X.
It marked the end of an era for Intel's monolithic 14nm desktop designs before the company shifted to a heterogeneous big.LITTLE architecture with 12th Gen.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Higher IPC via Cypress Cove
- PCIe 4.0 support added
- Improved turbo boost algorithms
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
Upgrading an existing LGA 1200 system on a budget.
Avoid if…
- Building a brand new PC from scratch
- Needing integrated graphics as a fallback
- Requiring maximum power efficiency
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
Lacks integrated graphics (F suffix).
8 cores and 16 threads.
Base clock of 2.5 GHz.
Boosts up to 4.9 GHz.
65W TDP.
14nm Rocket Lake architecture.
20 PCIe 4.0 lanes.
Fits LGA 1200 socket.
Released March 2021.
Requires a dedicated GPU to output video.
People Also Ask
Is the 11700F good for gaming?
Yes, paired with a good GPU, it offers excellent 1080p and 1440p gaming.
Does it support DDR4?
Yes, it supports dual-channel DDR4-3200.
Can I overclock it?
No, it has a locked multiplier.
What is the difference between 11700 and 11700F?
The 11700F lacks integrated graphics.
Does it support PCIe 4.0?
Yes, it has 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes.
What motherboards are compatible?
Intel 400 and 500 series LGA 1200 motherboards.
Is it better than 10700F?
Yes, it has higher IPC and supports PCIe 4.0.
Can it run Windows 11?
Yes, it is fully compatible with Windows 11.
What is the max memory?
It supports up to 128 GB of DDR4 memory.
Is it good for streaming?
Yes, 8 cores handle streaming and gaming simultaneously well.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the F mean in i7-11700F?
It means the processor does not have integrated graphics.
Can it boot without a GPU?
No, a dedicated graphics card is required for video output.
What is the turbo speed?
The maximum turbo speed is 4.9 GHz.
Is it unlocked?
No, the multiplier is locked.
What socket does it use?
It uses the LGA 1200 socket.
What PCIe version?
It supports PCIe Gen 4.0.
Does it include a cooler?
Yes, a stock cooler is included.
What is the TDP?
The TDP is 65 Watts.
When was it released?
It was released in March 2021.
How much L3 cache?
It has 16 MB of L3 cache.