If you are looking for a top-of-the-line gaming CPU, the i7 9700k is an excellent choice. With eight cores and high clock speeds, this CPU offers exceptional performance for gaming and other demanding applications.
In this article, we will take an in-depth look at the i7 9700k, including its specs, performance, and other important details that will help you decide whether this CPU is right for you.
Contents
- What is Intel i7 9700K
- Specs of The Intel Core i7 9700K
- Performance of the i7 9700k in table
- Power Consumption and Cooling in table form
- Compatibility and Motherboard Support
- Pricing and Value
- Intel Core i7-9700K Pros & Cons
- i7 9700K Benchmark
- Intel i7 9700K Socket Type
- Intel i7 9700K Compatible Motherboard
- Frequently Asked Questions about i7 9700K
- What is the i7-9700K processor?
- What is the clock speed of the i7-9700K?
- How many cores and threads does the i7-9700K have?
- Does the i7-9700K support hyper-threading?
- What is the TDP of the i7-9700K?
- Does the i7-9700K come with a stock cooler?
- What motherboards are compatible with the i7-9700K?
- Can the i7-9700K be overclocked?
- How much does the i7-9700K cost?
- How does the i7-9700K compare to other processors?
- Recap
What is Intel i7 9700K
The i7-9700K is a high-performance processor developed by Intel Corporation. It belongs to the 9th generation of Intel Core CPUs and was released in late 2018. The i7-9700K is an eight-core processor that can handle up to 16 threads at once with a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a turbo boost speed of 4.9 GHz.
It’s designed for high-end desktop systems and offers excellent performance in demanding applications such as gaming, video editing, and content creation. The i7-9700K is also notable for its lack of hyper-threading, which sets it apart from other Intel Core i7 processors.
Specs of The Intel Core i7 9700K
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Processor Type | Desktop |
| Number of Cores | 8 |
| Number of Threads | 8 |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.6 GHz |
| Max Turbo Boost Speed | 4.9 GHz |
| Cache | 12 MB Intel Smart Cache |
| TDP | 95 watts |
| Memory Type Support | DDR4-2666 |
| Socket | LGA 1151 |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| Manufacturing Process | 14nm++ |
| Release Date | Q4 2018 |
i7 9700k Core Count
The Intel Core i7-9700K has 8 cores. It’s an octa-core processor, which means it has eight independent processing cores that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously. This makes it a powerful processor that is well-suited for demanding applications such as gaming, video editing, and content creation.
The i7-9700K also has the ability to process up to 8 threads simultaneously, thanks to Intel’s Hyper-Threading technology. However, unlike some other Intel Core i7 processors, the i7-9700K does not support Hyper-Threading, which means it can only process 8 threads at a time.
i7 9700k Clock Speed
The Intel Core i7-9700K has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a maximum turbo boost frequency of 4.9 GHz. The base clock speed is the speed at which the processor operates under normal conditions, while the turbo boost frequency is the maximum speed that the processor can reach under certain conditions, such as when running single-threaded applications or when thermal conditions allow.
The i7-9700K is designed to provide high-performance computing power for demanding applications, such as gaming, video editing, and content creation. Its clock speeds, combined with its 8 cores and 8 threads, make it a powerful processor that can handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Additionally, the processor has Intel’s advanced Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, which dynamically increases the clock speed of the processor when necessary to provide maximum performance.
i7 9700k Cache Size
The Intel Core i7-9700K processor has a cache size of 12 MB Intel Smart Cache. The cache is a small amount of high-speed memory that is integrated into the processor, used to temporarily store data that the processor frequently accesses, such as frequently used instructions and data.
Having a larger cache size can improve the processor’s performance, as it can reduce the time needed to access frequently used data and instructions, and thus, reduce the time required for the processor to complete tasks.
The i7-9700K’s 12 MB Intel Smart Cache is a significant amount of cache, which helps to make it a high-performance processor, well-suited for demanding applications that require a lot of processing power.
The Smart Cache technology dynamically allocates the cache between the processor’s cores based on workload, which can improve overall performance and efficiency.
i7 9700k TDP
The Intel Core i7-9700K processor has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95 watts. The TDP is a measure of the amount of heat the processor generates under normal operating conditions and is used to specify the minimum cooling requirements for the processor.
A TDP of 95 watts is relatively high for a desktop processor, indicating that the i7-9700K is a powerful processor that can consume a significant amount of power under heavy workloads. As such, it requires adequate cooling to prevent overheating and ensure stable operation. When choosing a cooler for the i7-9700K, it’s essential to select a cooler that can handle a TDP of at least 95 watts to ensure that the processor remains within safe operating temperatures.
i7 9700k Integrated Graphics
The Intel Core i7-9700K processor has an integrated graphics processor called Intel UHD Graphics 630. The UHD Graphics 630 is a built-in graphics solution that is integrated into the processor and doesn’t require a separate graphics card.
The UHD Graphics 630 supports up to 4K resolution at 60Hz and can handle video playback and basic graphics tasks. However, it’s not as powerful as a dedicated graphics card and is generally not recommended for heavy-duty gaming or graphics-intensive applications. If you plan on gaming or working with graphics-intensive applications, it’s recommended to pair the i7-9700K with a dedicated graphics card for optimal performance.
Performance of the i7 9700k in table
| Performance Metric | Description |
|---|---|
| Cores | 8 |
| Threads | 8 |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.6 GHz |
| Max Turbo Boost Speed | 4.9 GHz |
| Cache Size | 12 MB Intel Smart Cache |
| TDP | 95 watts |
| Memory Type Support | DDR4-2666 |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| Performance Score (PassMark) | 16,004 |
| Single Thread Performance Score (PassMark) | 2,542 |
Gaming Performance
The Intel Core i7-9700K is a powerful processor that can deliver excellent gaming performance when paired with a good graphics card. The processor’s high core count, fast clock speeds, and large cache size make it well-suited for running modern games, even at high settings and resolutions.
When paired with a high-end graphics card such as the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 or the AMD Radeon RX 6800 XT, the i7-9700K can deliver smooth gaming performance in even the most demanding titles. In benchmark tests, the i7-9700K has shown to provide excellent gaming performance and is often used in high-end gaming rigs.
However, it’s important to note that gaming performance is not solely dependent on the processor, and the performance of the system as a whole, including the graphics card, RAM, and storage, will also affect gaming performance.
Multi-Threaded Performance
The Intel Core i7-9700K is a strong performer in multi-threaded workloads thanks to its 8 cores and 8 threads. While it’s not as powerful as some of Intel’s higher-end processors, it can still handle multi-threaded workloads with ease, making it a good choice for demanding applications such as video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific computing.
In benchmark tests such as Cinebench, the i7-9700K has shown to perform well in multi-threaded workloads. However, it’s worth noting that some newer processors with more cores and threads, such as the Intel Core i9-9900K or the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X, may provide better performance in highly multi-threaded workloads.
The i7-9700K is a strong performer in multi-threaded workloads, but it may not be the best choice for users who prioritize multi-threaded performance above all else.
Overclocking
The Intel Core i7-9700K is a processor that is highly suitable for overclocking, especially for users who want to push their system to its limits. The processor has an unlocked multiplier, which makes it easier to adjust the clock speeds and voltage to increase its performance.
With adequate cooling, such as a high-end air cooler or liquid cooling solution, users can increase the clock speeds of the i7-9700K to improve its performance in single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads. However, it’s important to note that overclocking can generate additional heat and put extra strain on the processor, so users must ensure that their cooling solution is capable of handling the increased heat output.
Overclocking also requires adjusting various settings in the system BIOS, which can be complex and may require some trial and error to achieve optimal performance. Therefore, users who are interested in overclocking should have some technical knowledge and be willing to spend time tweaking their system to achieve optimal results.
The i7-9700K is a processor that is highly suitable for overclocking, and with the right cooling and tweaking, users can achieve significant improvements in performance.
Power Consumption and Cooling in table form
| Metric | Description |
|---|---|
| TDP | 95 watts |
| Max Temperature | 100°C |
| Cooling Solution | Air cooling or liquid cooling |
| Recommended Cooling Solution | High-end air cooler or liquid cooling solution |
| Idle Power Consumption | 8.2 watts |
| Max Power Consumption (Stock) | 131.9 watts |
| Max Power Consumption (Overclocked) | Varies depending on overclocking settings |
TDP and Power Draw
TDP stands for Thermal Design Power, which is the maximum amount of heat that a processor can generate when running at its base clock speed. It is also used as an estimate of the maximum power consumption of the processor. TDP is usually measured in watts, and it provides a guideline for the type of cooling solution required to keep the processor within safe operating temperatures.
The TDP of the Intel Core i7-9700K processor is 95 watts, which means that it is designed to consume up to 95 watts of power when running at its base clock speed. However, the actual power draw of the processor can vary depending on factors such as the workload being performed, the number of cores and threads being utilized, and whether the processor is overclocked.
When running at stock speeds and with a moderate workload, the i7-9700K typically draws around 70-90 watts of power. However, when running under heavy loads, such as during CPU-intensive tasks or gaming, the power draw can increase significantly and may exceed the TDP of the processor.
To ensure that the i7-9700K operates within safe temperature and power limits, it is recommended to use a high-end air or liquid cooling solution, especially when overclocking the processor. Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the power supply unit (PSU) can deliver sufficient power to the system to prevent stability issues and potential damage to the components.
Cooling Requirements
The cooling requirements for the Intel Core i7-9700K processor depend on a variety of factors, including the workload being performed, the ambient temperature of the room, and the configuration of the rest of the system. However, there are some general guidelines that can be followed to ensure that the processor stays within safe operating temperatures.
The i7-9700K is a high-performance processor that can generate a significant amount of heat, especially when running under heavy loads or when overclocked. As a result, it requires a robust cooling solution to prevent it from overheating and potentially causing damage to the processor or other components in the system.
The recommended cooling solution for the i7-9700K is either a high-end air cooler or a liquid cooling solution. High-end air coolers typically use large heatsinks and multiple fans to dissipate heat, while liquid cooling solutions use a combination of a water block, radiator, and fans to transfer heat away from the processor.
When choosing a cooling solution for the i7-9700K, it’s important to ensure that it is capable of dissipating the amount of heat generated by the processor, even under heavy loads or when overclocked. Additionally, users should consider the noise level of the cooling solution, as high-end cooling solutions can generate a significant amount of noise.
In summary, the i7-9700K requires a robust cooling solution, such as a high-end air cooler or a liquid cooling solution, to prevent it from overheating and ensure stable performance. When selecting a cooling solution, it’s important to consider factors such as the workload being performed, the ambient temperature of the room, and the noise level of the cooling solution.
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Compatibility and Motherboard Support
The Intel Core i7-9700K processor is compatible with motherboards that feature an LGA 1151 socket and are based on the Intel 300-series chipset, specifically the Z390, Z370, H370, B360, and H310 chipsets. These chipsets offer support for various features, such as overclocking, PCIe 3.0, USB 3.1 Gen2, and Intel Optane memory.
When selecting a motherboard for the i7-9700K, it’s important to consider the specific features and capabilities that are required for the intended use of the system. For example, if overclocking is a priority, a motherboard with a robust power delivery system and BIOS features for overclocking may be desirable. Additionally, users should consider the number of PCIe lanes and expansion slots available on the motherboard, as well as the number and type of storage and connectivity options.
It’s also important to ensure that the motherboard BIOS is up-to-date and supports the i7-9700K processor. Some motherboards may require a BIOS update to support newer processors, so users should check the motherboard manufacturer’s website for compatibility information and instructions on how to update the BIOS.
The i7-9700K processor is compatible with motherboards that feature an LGA 1151 socket and are based on the Intel 300-series chipset. When selecting a motherboard, users should consider the specific features and capabilities required for the intended use of the system and ensure that the motherboard BIOS is up-to-date and supports the processor.
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Pricing and Value
The pricing of the Intel Core i7-9700K processor can vary depending on the region and retailer, but as of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, it was typically priced around $350 to $400 USD.
In terms of value, the i7-9700K offers high-end performance for a mid-range price compared to other top-tier processors. It features 8 cores and 8 threads, with a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 4.9 GHz. It also offers support for dual-channel DDR4 memory, Intel Optane memory, and features an unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking.
In terms of performance, the i7-9700K offers excellent single-core performance, making it a good choice for gaming, media creation, and other single-threaded workloads. It also offers strong multi-core performance, though it may be outperformed by newer processors with higher core counts.
The i7-9700K offers good value for those looking for a high-performance processor without breaking the bank. It may not be the most up-to-date processor, but it still offers excellent performance and is a good choice for gaming and other demanding workloads.
Intel Core i7-9700K Pros & Cons
The Intel Core i7-9700K is a powerful and reliable processor that is well-suited for gaming and other demanding tasks. However, its lack of hyper-threading and integrated graphics, as well as its limited PCIe support, may make it less appealing for some users.
Pros
- Excellent performance: The Core i7-9700K has eight cores and can handle up to 16 threads, which makes it one of the fastest processors on the market. It has a base clock speed of 3.6GHz and can boost up to 4.9GHz, providing fast and reliable performance for demanding tasks.
- Overclocking potential: The i7-9700K is unlocked, which means it can be overclocked to achieve even higher performance. It has a good thermal design power (TDP) rating of 95 watts, which allows for some headroom when overclocking.
- Good for gaming: The i7-9700K is an excellent processor for gaming. It provides high frame rates, smooth gameplay, and fast load times. It also has a fast single-core performance, which is important for many games.
- Good value: Compared to other high-end processors, the i7-9700K is relatively affordable. It provides excellent performance for its price, making it a good value option for those who need a powerful processor.
Cons
- No hyper-threading: Unlike some other high-end processors, the i7-9700K does not support hyper-threading. This means it can’t handle as many simultaneous threads as some other processors, which can limit its performance in certain scenarios.
- No integrated graphics: The i7-9700K does not have integrated graphics, which means you’ll need a separate graphics card to use it. This can add to the overall cost of a build.
- No PCIe 4.0 support: The i7-9700K does not support PCIe 4.0, which means it may not be the best option for those who need the fastest possible storage speeds.
- No significant improvements over previous generation: The i7-9700K is only a minor upgrade over its predecessor, the i7-8700K. If you already have the older processor, there may not be a significant performance improvement to justify the cost of upgrading.
i7 9700K Benchmark
| Benchmark | Score | Details |
|---|---|---|
| PassMark CPU Mark | 14,288 | The PassMark CPU Mark is a composite benchmark that tests the overall performance of the CPU. The i7-9700K scores very well on this test, putting it among the top-performing CPUs on the market. |
| Cinebench R20 | 3,893 | Cinebench R20 is a benchmark that tests the CPU’s performance in rendering tasks. The i7-9700K performs very well on this test, indicating that it can handle demanding rendering workloads with ease. |
| Geekbench 5 (single-core) | 1,351 | Geekbench 5 tests both single-core and multi-core performance. The i7-9700K scores very well on the single-core test, indicating that it can handle tasks that rely heavily on a single core. |
| Geekbench 5 (multi-core) | 8,460 | The i7-9700K also scores very well on the multi-core test, indicating that it can handle tasks that use multiple cores effectively. |
| 3DMark Time Spy CPU | 9,891 | 3DMark Time Spy CPU is a benchmark that tests the CPU’s performance in gaming tasks. The i7-9700K scores very well on this test, indicating that it can handle demanding games with ease. |
The i7-9700K is an excellent processor that provides outstanding performance for demanding tasks like gaming, rendering, and other CPU-intensive workloads. Its high scores on benchmarks like PassMark CPU Mark, Cinebench R20, Geekbench 5, and 3DMark Time Spy CPU demonstrate its ability to handle demanding workloads with ease.
Intel i7 9700K Socket Type
The Intel Core i7-9700K processor uses the LGA 1151 socket type, specifically the LGA 1151 (300 Series) socket. However, it is important to note that while the physical socket is the same as some earlier generation CPUs, the 9th generation processors, including the i7-9700K, are not compatible with older motherboards that have the LGA 1151 socket. This is because they require a newer chipset to function properly, such as the Intel Z390 chipset.
Intel i7 9700K Compatible Motherboard
The Intel Core i7-9700K is compatible with motherboards that have an LGA 1151 (300 Series) socket and support the Intel Z390 chipset. Some examples of compatible motherboards include:
- ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero (Wi-Fi)
- MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Edge AC
- Gigabyte Z390 AORUS PRO
- ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming-ITX/ac
- EVGA Z390 Dark
It’s important to note that while the i7-9700K may physically fit into motherboards with other LGA 1151 sockets (such as those used by 8th generation Intel processors), it will not function properly without a compatible chipset, like the Z390.
It’s also important to ensure that the motherboard has adequate power delivery and cooling capabilities, especially if you plan on overclocking the processor.
Frequently Asked Questions about i7 9700K
Sure, here are some frequently asked questions about the i7-9700K:
What is the i7-9700K processor?
The i7-9700K is an 8th generation Intel Core processor designed for high-end desktop and gaming systems.
What is the clock speed of the i7-9700K?
The i7-9700K has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 4.9 GHz.
How many cores and threads does the i7-9700K have?
The i7-9700K has 8 cores and 8 threads.
Does the i7-9700K support hyper-threading?
No, the i7-9700K does not support hyper-threading.
What is the TDP of the i7-9700K?
The TDP of the i7-9700K is 95 watts.
Does the i7-9700K come with a stock cooler?
No, the i7-9700K does not come with a stock cooler. A third-party cooler is required for optimal performance and cooling.
What motherboards are compatible with the i7-9700K?
The i7-9700K is compatible with motherboards that feature an LGA 1151 socket and are based on the Intel 300-series chipset, specifically the Z390, Z370, H370, B360, and H310 chipsets.
Can the i7-9700K be overclocked?
Yes, the i7-9700K features an unlocked multiplier and can be overclocked for increased performance.
How much does the i7-9700K cost?
As of my knowledge cutoff in September 2021, the i7-9700K was typically priced around $350 to $400 USD.
How does the i7-9700K compare to other processors?
The i7-9700K offers high-end performance for a mid-range price compared to other top-tier processors. It offers strong single-core performance, making it a good choice for gaming and other single-threaded workloads. However, it may be outperformed by newer processors with higher core counts in multi-threaded workloads.
Recap
The i7-9700K is an 8th generation Intel Core processor with 8 cores and 8 threads. It has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 4.9 GHz, and a TDP of 95 watts. It offers strong single-core performance, making it a good choice for gaming and other single-threaded workloads.
It can be overclocked for increased performance and requires a third-party cooler for optimal cooling. The i7-9700K is compatible with motherboards that feature an LGA 1151 socket and are based on the Intel 300-series chipset.
Final recommendation
Overall, the i7-9700K is a high-performance processor that offers good value for those looking for a mid-range option. It is a good choice for gaming and other single-threaded workloads, but may be outperformed by newer processors with higher core counts in multi-threaded workloads.
If you are building a new system and want the latest technology, it may be worth considering newer processors such as the Intel Core i9-11900K or AMD Ryzen 9 5900X. However, if you are looking for a solid processor at a reasonable price, the i7-9700K is still a good option to consider.
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