Intel Core i7 8700K vs 8700: A Comprehensive Comparison
When it comes to choosing the right desktop CPU, enthusiasts often find themselves weighing options like the Intel Core i7 8700K and Intel Core i7 8700. Both are powerful 6-core processors designed for socket LGA-1151, offering impressive performance in various tasks. This article delves into the key differences, advantages, and drawbacks of each, helping you make an informed decision.
Key Differences: Intel Core i7 8700K vs 8700
Despite their similarities, there are notable differences between the Intel Core i7 8700K and 8700 processors. These differences can significantly impact your choice based on your specific needs and budget.
Processor Specifications
Intel Core i7 8700K: This processor boasts a base clock frequency of 3.7 GHz, with Turbo Boost technology allowing it to reach 4.7 GHz. It has an L3 cache of 12 MB and comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630 integrated graphics.
Intel Core i7 8700: The 8700 model has a slightly lower base clock frequency of 3.2 GHz and a Turbo Boost frequency of 4.6 GHz. It also has an L3 cache of 12 MB and features the same Intel UHD Graphics 630.
Key Features and Strengths
Advantages of Intel Core i7 8700K
Unlocked Multiplier: One of the most significant advantages of the 8700K is the unlocked multiplier. This feature allows for extensive overclocking potential, enabling you to push the processor to higher clock speeds and improve performance. Higher Peak Performance: The 8700K offers a slight edge in both base clock speed and Turbo Boost frequency, resulting in a performance boost over the 8700.Advantages of Intel Core i7 8700
Energy Efficiency: The 8700 is more energy-efficient, with a lower TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65 Watts compared to the 8700K's 95 Watts. This can be particularly beneficial for users who are concerned about power consumption and heat dissipation.Performance Analysis: i7 8700K vs 8700
In practical terms, the performance difference between the 8700K and 8700 is relatively small when both are used at stock speeds. Studies show that the 8700K is about 4% faster on average. However, this gap diminishes when overclocking is considered, as the 8700K's overclocking capabilities can provide a significant performance boost.
Unlocked Multiplier: The Game Changer
The unlocked multiplier in the 8700K is a crucial factor for overclocking enthusiasts. This feature allows you to adjust the multiplier to achieve higher clock speeds. For example, the 8700K can be overclocked to run at a base frequency of 40 MHz and a turbo frequency of 56 MHz, potentially reaching 5.6 GHz on all cores. In contrast, the 8700 has a locked multiplier, limiting its overclocking potential.
Real-World Usage
When considering the everyday use case, the slight performance difference between the two processors might not be noticeable. For users looking for low power consumption, the 8700 is a more efficient choice. However, if you're willing to spend more money and have the necessary cooling and power infrastructure, the 8700K's overclocking capabilities can provide substantial gains.
Conclusion
Both the Intel Core i7 8700K and 8700 offer strong performance for desktop users. While the 8700K has a slight edge in performance and overclocking flexibility, the 8700 is more energy-efficient and potentially more cost-effective. Your choice will largely depend on your specific requirements, budget, and willingness to overclock.