The Ultimate Guide to i7 6700: Features, Performance, and Reviews

Attention, computer enthusiasts and tech-savvy folks! Today, we’re diving into the world of processors and taking a closer look at the i7 6700. So, what is the i7 6700? It’s a quad-core CPU from Intel’s sixth-generation of processors, which was first released in 2015. But don’t let its age fool you, this chip can still hold its own in today’s world of high-performance computing.

If you’re looking for a processor that can handle heavy workloads, play the latest games, and offer great overall performance, then the i7 6700 might be just what you need. But why should you keep reading? Well, we’ll be diving into the nitty-gritty of the i7 6700’s features, performance, and overall value for your money. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a content creator, or just looking to upgrade your desktop, this article has got you covered. So, buckle up and let’s explore the world of the i7 6700!

What is i7 6700?

The i7 6700 is a 6th generation quad-core Intel Core i7 processor, which was released in 2015. It has a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and can boost up to 4.0 GHz. The processor uses the LGA 1151 socket and is built on a 14nm manufacturing process. It supports DDR4 memory and has a thermal design power (TDP) of 65 watts.

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The i7 6700 is commonly found in high-end desktop computers and can handle demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, and content creation.

Brief history of i7 6700 and its generation

The i7 6700 was released by Intel in 2015 as part of the 6th generation of Intel Core processors, which were codenamed “Skylake”. This generation followed the 5th generation “Broadwell” processors and was succeeded by the 7th generation “Kaby Lake” processors.

The i7 6700 was a popular choice for high-end desktop computers at the time of its release due to its powerful quad-core processing capabilities and its ability to handle demanding tasks such as gaming, video editing, and content creation. It also introduced a number of new features, including support for DDR4 memory, Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, which allowed for more efficient use of the processor’s resources.

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Since its release, the i7 6700 has been succeeded by newer and more powerful processors from Intel, but it remains a popular choice for those looking for a high-performance processor at a more affordable price point. Its legacy is evident in the fact that many systems still use it as their primary processing unit, proving its staying power even in the rapidly evolving world of computer technology.

i7 6700 Features

Sure, here are some of the key features of the i7 6700 processor in a table format:

Feature Description
Generation 6th Generation (Skylake)
Cores 4
Threads 8
Base Clock Speed 3.4 GHz
Max Turbo Boost Speed 4.0 GHz
Cache 8 MB SmartCache
TDP 65 watts
Lithography 14nm
Memory Support DDR4-2133, DDR3L-1600
Graphics Intel HD Graphics 530
Socket LGA 1151
PCI Express Version PCIe 3.0
Virtualization Technology Yes
Hyper-Threading Technology Yes
Intel Turbo Boost Technology Yes

The i7 6700 is a quad-core processor with a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and the ability to boost up to 4.0 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost Technology. It has 8 MB of SmartCache and a thermal design power (TDP) of 65 watts, making it suitable for high-performance desktop computers. It also supports DDR4-2133 and DDR3L-1600 memory, and has an integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 GPU.

The processor features Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, which allows each core to handle two threads, effectively doubling the number of processing threads available to the system. It also supports Intel Virtualization Technology, which allows multiple operating systems to run on the same hardware at the same time.

i7 6700 Performance: Gaming, Graphic & Clock Speed

Sure, here are some of the key performance metrics of the i7 6700 processor in a table format:

Metric Description
Base Clock Speed 3.4 GHz
Max Turbo Boost Speed 4.0 GHz
Cores / Threads 4 / 8
TDP 65 watts
Lithography 14nm
Memory Support DDR4-2133, DDR3L-1600
Integrated Graphics Intel HD Graphics 530
Graphics Base Frequency 350 MHz
Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency 1.15 GHz
DirectX Support 12
OpenGL Support 4.4
Gaming Performance Good (can handle most games at mid to high settings)
Graphics Performance Good (capable of handling demanding graphics tasks)

The i7 6700 has a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz, which can boost up to 4.0 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost Technology. It has four cores and eight threads, allowing it to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. The processor has a thermal design power (TDP) of 65 watts and is built on a 14nm manufacturing process.

The i7 6700 also features an integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 GPU, with a base frequency of 350 MHz and a max dynamic frequency of 1.15 GHz. It supports DirectX 12 and OpenGL 4.4, making it capable of handling demanding graphics tasks. The processor’s gaming performance is good and can handle most games at mid to high settings.

i7 6700 Gaming performance

The i7 6700 is a capable processor for gaming, with good performance for most games at mid to high settings. The processor has four cores and eight threads, which allows it to handle multiple tasks simultaneously. It also has a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and can boost up to 4.0 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost Technology.

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In terms of gaming performance, the i7 6700 can handle most modern games with ease. However, for the most demanding games or if you want to play at the highest settings, you may want to pair it with a powerful graphics card. The i7 6700 also supports Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, which can help improve game performance by allowing the processor to handle more tasks simultaneously.

The i7 6700 is a good choice for gaming, especially if paired with a capable graphics card. While it may not be the latest or most powerful processor available, it still offers solid performance and can handle most games without issue.

i7 6700 Graphic Performance

The i7 6700 has an integrated graphics processor, the Intel HD Graphics 530, which offers good performance for most graphics tasks. The graphics processor has a base frequency of 350 MHz and can boost up to 1.15 GHz, making it capable of handling demanding graphics workloads.

The i7 6700’s integrated graphics processor supports DirectX 12 and OpenGL 4.4, which are the latest graphics APIs for Windows and Linux operating systems, respectively. This means that it can handle modern games and graphics-intensive applications.

In addition to gaming, the i7 6700’s graphics processor is also capable of handling other graphics-intensive tasks, such as video editing, image manipulation, and 3D modeling. However, for the most demanding workloads, you may want to consider using a dedicated graphics card, which will offer even better performance.

i7 6700’s integrated graphics processor offers good performance for most graphics tasks, and can handle modern games and graphics-intensive applications without issue.

i7 6700 Clock Speed

The i7 6700 has a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz, which means that its four cores can each process data at a rate of 3.4 billion cycles per second. This clock speed is the speed at which the processor operates under normal conditions without any boost or overclocking.

However, the i7 6700 is also capable of boosting its clock speed up to 4.0 GHz using Intel Turbo Boost Technology. This feature allows the processor to increase its clock speed when it detects that it needs additional processing power to handle demanding tasks.

The boost clock speed of 4.0 GHz is the maximum clock speed that the i7 6700 can reach. This boost clock speed is achieved when the processor is running under optimal conditions, such as when only a few cores are active or when the processor is running within its temperature and power limits.

The i7 6700 offers solid clock speed performance, with a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and a maximum boost clock speed of 4.0 GHz. This allows it to handle a wide range of tasks, from everyday computing to demanding applications and games.

i7 6700 Power Consumption

The i7 6700 has a thermal design power (TDP) of 65 watts, which means that it is designed to consume up to 65 watts of power under normal operating conditions. This power consumption is relatively low compared to some other processors, which can have TDPs of up to 95 watts or more.

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The i7 6700’s low power consumption makes it a good choice for systems where power efficiency is a priority, such as in laptops or small form factor desktops. However, it’s important to note that the actual power consumption of the processor will depend on a variety of factors, including the workload being performed, the number of active cores, and the operating temperature of the processor.

In addition to its low TDP, the i7 6700 also features power-saving technologies such as Intel SpeedStep Technology and Intel Turbo Boost Technology. These features allow the processor to dynamically adjust its power consumption based on the workload being performed, which can help to further reduce power consumption.

i7 6700 is a relatively power-efficient processor, with a TDP of 65 watts and power-saving technologies that help to reduce power consumption even further.

i7 6700 Cooling

The i7 6700 is a relatively low-power processor with a thermal design power (TDP) of 65 watts, which means that it does not generate a significant amount of heat under normal operating conditions. As such, it can be cooled using a variety of cooling solutions, including air and liquid cooling systems.

For air cooling, the i7 6700 can be paired with a variety of CPU coolers, including stock coolers provided by Intel or third-party coolers from companies such as Noctua or Cooler Master. These coolers use a combination of heatsinks, heat pipes, and fans to dissipate heat from the processor and keep it within safe operating temperatures.

For liquid cooling, the i7 6700 can be paired with all-in-one liquid coolers or custom liquid cooling solutions. These cooling systems use a liquid coolant to transfer heat away from the processor, which is then dissipated through a radiator and fans.

It’s important to note that the choice of cooling solution for the i7 6700 will depend on a variety of factors, including the workload being performed, the ambient temperature of the environment, and the desired level of noise and performance. In general, air cooling solutions are more affordable and easier to install, while liquid cooling solutions offer better cooling performance and are often preferred by enthusiasts and overclockers.

i7 6700 can be cooled using a variety of cooling solutions, including air and liquid cooling systems, depending on the specific needs and requirements of the system.

Who Should Use i7 6700

The i7 6700 is a versatile and capable processor that can be suitable for a range of users, depending on their needs and requirements. Here are some examples of users who might benefit from using the i7 6700:

  • Gamers: The i7 6700’s quad-core design, fast clock speeds, and integrated graphics processor make it a good choice for gamers who want to play modern games without the need for a dedicated graphics card. It can handle most games at decent settings and frame rates.
  • Content creators: The i7 6700’s fast clock speeds and quad-core design make it a good choice for content creators who work with photo or video editing software or other graphics-intensive applications. It can handle these tasks with relative ease and can help improve productivity.
  • Office users: The i7 6700’s low power consumption, integrated graphics, and fast clock speeds make it a good choice for office users who need a reliable and efficient processor for everyday tasks such as web browsing, email, and document creation.
  • Small form factor system builders: The i7 6700’s low power consumption and quad-core design make it a good choice for system builders who want to build compact systems such as mini-PCs or small form factor desktops.
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The i7 6700 is a capable processor that can be suitable for a range of users, depending on their needs and requirements. While it may not be the latest or most powerful processor available, it still offers solid performance for a variety of tasks and can be a good choice for those on a budget or those who do not need the latest and greatest hardware.

i7 6700 vs. Its Competitors in Same Price Range

When the i7 6700 was first released, it was one of the top-performing processors in its price range. However, there have been many new processors released since then, and it’s worth comparing the i7 6700 to its current competitors in the same price range.

  • Ryzen 5 5600X: The Ryzen 5 5600X is a newer processor that is currently priced similarly to the i7 6700. It has six cores and 12 threads, compared to the i7 6700’s four cores and eight threads. The Ryzen 5 5600X also has a faster clock speed, higher boost clock, and better single-core performance than the i7 6700. Overall, the Ryzen 5 5600X is a more powerful and efficient processor than the i7 6700.
  • Core i5-11600K: The Core i5-11600K is a newer processor from Intel that is priced similarly to the i7 6700. It has six cores and 12 threads, and has faster clock speeds than the i7 6700. The Core i5-11600K also has a higher boost clock, better single-core performance, and supports faster memory than the i7 6700. Overall, the Core i5-11600K is a more powerful and efficient processor than the i7 6700.
  • Ryzen 7 2700X: The Ryzen 7 2700X is an older processor from AMD that is currently priced similarly to the i7 6700. It has eight cores and 16 threads, compared to the i7 6700’s four cores and eight threads. The Ryzen 7 2700X also has a faster clock speed and higher boost clock than the i7 6700. Overall, the Ryzen 7 2700X is a more powerful processor than the i7 6700 for multi-threaded applications, but may not perform as well in single-threaded tasks.

In summary, while the i7 6700 was a solid processor when it was released, there are now many newer processors available that offer better performance and efficiency for similar prices. If you are considering purchasing a processor in this price range, it’s worth comparing the i7 6700 to newer processors such as the Ryzen 5 5600X and Core i5-11600K to ensure that you get the best value for your money.

i7 6700: Advantages & Disadvantages

Advantages of i7 6700:

  • Good performance: The i7 6700 offers good performance for most applications, with its quad-core design and fast clock speeds.
  • Integrated graphics: The i7 6700 has an integrated graphics processor, which can be useful for users who do not need a dedicated graphics card for their applications.
  • Low power consumption: The i7 6700 has a relatively low power consumption compared to some other processors, which can be beneficial for users who are looking to build a more energy-efficient system.
  • Broad compatibility: The i7 6700 is compatible with a wide range of motherboards and other components, making it a good choice for system builders who want to ensure compatibility with their other components.
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Disadvantages of i7 6700:

  • Limited upgrade options: The i7 6700 uses the LGA 1151 socket, which is no longer used by newer processors. This means that if you want to upgrade your processor, you may need to also replace your motherboard.
  • Older technology: The i7 6700 is an older processor and does not offer some of the latest features and technologies that are available in newer processors.
  • Higher price: While the i7 6700 was priced competitively when it was released, there are now many newer processors available that offer better performance for similar or lower prices.
  • Limited overclocking potential: The i7 6700 has limited overclocking potential due to its locked multiplier, which can be a disadvantage for users who want to squeeze more performance out of their system.

Overall, the i7 6700 is a solid processor that offers good performance and compatibility, but its limited upgrade options and older technology may make it less appealing to some users. Additionally, there are now many newer processors available that offer better performance and features for similar or lower prices.

Is I7 6700 Good for Gaming?

The Intel Core i7-6700 is a capable processor for gaming, although its performance may vary depending on the specific games and settings you’re interested in. The i7-6700 is a quad-core CPU with eight threads and a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz. It also features Turbo Boost technology, which allows the processor to increase its clock speed up to 4.0 GHz dynamically.

For most games, the i7-6700 should provide satisfactory performance, especially when combined with a decent graphics card. However, as newer and more demanding games are released, you may start to notice some limitations with this CPU, particularly in highly CPU-intensive games or when running multiple tasks simultaneously.

If you already have an i7-6700 and are primarily gaming at 1080p resolution with a mid-range or older graphics card, you should still be able to enjoy most games without significant issues. However, if you’re building a new gaming system or planning to upgrade, you might want to consider a newer generation CPU like the Intel Core i7-11700K or an AMD Ryzen 5000 series processor, as they offer better performance and improved technology.

Overall, the i7-6700 is still a decent processor for gaming, especially for older or less demanding games. However, if you have the option to choose a newer processor, it would likely provide a better gaming experience in the long run.

i7 6700 Integrated Graphics

The Intel Core i7-6700 processor features integrated graphics known as Intel HD Graphics 530. These integrated graphics can handle basic graphics tasks and even support some casual gaming at lower resolutions and settings.

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The Intel HD Graphics 530 has a base frequency of 350 MHz, which can dynamically boost up to 1.15 GHz depending on the workload. It supports DirectX 12 and OpenGL 4.4, allowing it to run many modern games, although you may need to lower the graphics settings to achieve smooth gameplay.

While the integrated graphics of the i7-6700 are suitable for casual gaming, if you’re aiming for more demanding games or higher graphics settings, you would generally be better off using a dedicated graphics card. A dedicated GPU will provide significantly better gaming performance and allow you to play games at higher resolutions and settings.

If you’re using the i7-6700 for gaming and want the best possible graphics performance, I would recommend pairing it with a dedicated graphics card that meets your gaming needs and budget.

FAQs about i7 6700

What is the clock speed of the i7 6700?

The base clock speed of the i7 6700 is 3.4 GHz, with a maximum turbo frequency of 4.0 GHz.

Does the i7 6700 have hyper-threading?

Yes, the i7 6700 has hyper-threading technology, which allows each of its four physical cores to handle two processing threads simultaneously.

Does the i7 6700 have an integrated GPU?

Yes, the i7 6700 has an integrated graphics processor, which is part of the Intel HD Graphics 530 series.

What is the TDP of the i7 6700?

The i7 6700 has a TDP (thermal design power) of 65 watts.

Is the i7 6700 unlocked for overclocking?

No, the i7 6700 is not an unlocked processor and does not support overclocking.

What is the maximum amount of RAM that the i7 6700 can support?

The i7 6700 can support up to 64 GB of DDR4 memory, with a maximum speed of 2133 MHz.

What socket does the i7 6700 use?

The i7 6700 uses the LGA 1151 socket, which is not compatible with newer processors.

What is the manufacturing process used for the i7 6700?

The i7 6700 is manufactured using a 14nm process.

What is the cache size of the i7 6700?

The i7 6700 has 8 MB of L3 cache and 1 MB of L2 cache.

Is the i7 6700 still a good processor for gaming?

While the i7 6700 is an older processor, it can still offer good performance for gaming. However, there are now many newer processors available that offer better performance and efficiency for similar prices. It’s worth considering other options such as the Ryzen 5 5600X or Core i5-11600K if you are building a new gaming PC.


In conclusion, the i7 6700 is a solid processor that offers good performance for most applications, with its quad-core design, integrated graphics processor, and low power consumption. It has a base clock speed of 3.4 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 4.0 GHz, along with 8 MB of L3 cache and 1 MB of L2 cache.

However, it also has some limitations, including its older technology and limited upgrade options. Additionally, its higher price compared to newer processors with similar or better performance may make it less appealing to some users.

The i7 6700 can still be a good option for users who want a reliable and compatible processor, especially if they are building a system that doesn’t require the latest features or technologies. However, if you are building a new system and have a similar budget, it may be worth considering newer processors such as the Ryzen 5 5600X or Core i5-11600K, which offer better performance and efficiency.

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