Intel Core i7 2700K Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£35
  • PassMark benchmark result: 5694
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.9 GHz

Intel Core i7 2700K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

4.5

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

4.2

Technical Score

10.0%

7.6

User score

Poor
4.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

3.8

Performance

18.0%

3.9

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

4.3

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.7

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.2

Platform

1.0%

6.6

Integrated Graphics

Poor
7.6

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.6

User reviews

30.0%

2.9

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(20)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Very good
  • 2.6
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    2.5

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    1.8

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.3

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 2.0
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    1.7

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    2.8

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i7-2700K is a high-performance Sandy Bridge desktop processor featuring 4 cores, 8 threads via Hyper-Threading, and a base clock of 3.5 GHz that boosts up to 3.9 GHz. Built on a 32nm process with a 95W TDP, it includes 8 MB of Intel Smart Cache, an LGA 1155 socket, and integrated HD Graphics 3000. Its primary advantages include an unlocked multiplier for extensive overclocking headroom, reliable performance for gaming and multitasking, and efficient soldered thermal construction that aids in cooling. However, it offers only a marginal 100 MHz speed increase over the i7-2600K, lacks native support for modern features like PCIe 3.0 or DDR4, and its integrated graphics are generally insufficient for demanding enthusiasts.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 2700K

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

3.8

Performance

18.0%

3.9

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

4.3

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.7

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.2

Platform

1.0%

6.6

Integrated Graphics

4.2
Intel Core i7 2700K has a technical score of 4.17 points, which is lower than that of 76.6% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.6

User reviews

30.0%

2.9

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(20)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

7.6
Intel Core i7 2700K has a user score of 7.6 points, which is lower than that of 88.8% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
2.9
Intel Core i7 2700K has a popularity of 2.9 points, which is higher than 78.2% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.5

Overall score

40.0%

10

Price

6.2
Intel Core i7 2700K has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.2 points, which is lower than 56.1% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

desktop
Intel Core i7 2700K belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

LGA1155
Intel Core i7 2700K uses the LGA1155 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 53.9% of processors and equal to that of 2.1% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

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CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
Intel Core i7 2700K uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

4
Intel Core i7 2700K has 4 CPU cores, which is fewer than 50.7% of processors and equal to 28.5% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

8
Intel Core i7 2700K offers 8 CPU threads, which is more than 35.3% of processors and equal to 19% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

2
Intel Core i7 2700K offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

3.9 GHz
Intel Core i7 2700K reaches a boost clock of 3.9 GHz which is lower than that of 65% of processors and equal to that of 3.5% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

4 x 3.5 GHz
Intel Core i7 2700K has a base clock of 4x3.5 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

32 nm
Intel Core i7 2700K uses a 32 nm process node, which is older than that of 97.8% of processors and equal to that of 2.3% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel 32 nm
Intel Core i7 2700K is built on the Intel 32 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 97.8% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

8 MB
Intel Core i7 2700K has an L3 cache of 8 MB which is larger than that of 39.7% of processors and equal to that of 11.8% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

1 MB
Intel Core i7 2700K has an L2 cache of 1 MB which is smaller than that of 67.1% of processors and equal to that of 17.6% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

256 KB
Intel Core i7 2700K has an L1 cache of 256 KB which is smaller than that of 59.4% of processors and equal to that of 18.5% of processors.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR3
Intel Core i7 2700K supports DDR DDR3, which is older than that of 86.3% of processors and equal to that of 13.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

1,333 MHz
Intel Core i7 2700K supports memory speeds up to 1333 MHz, which is lower than that of 98.7% of processors and equal to 1.4% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR3-1333 MHz
Intel Core i7 2700K supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR3-1333 MHz, which is lower than that of 98.7% of processors and equal to 1.1% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

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Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

32 GB
Intel Core i7 2700K supports up to 32 GB of memory, which is less than 71.9% of processors and equal to 19.5% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Intel Core i7 2700K includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel HD Graphics 3000
Intel Core i7 2700K uses the Intel HD Graphics 3000 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 72.4% of processors and equal to that in 0.2% of processors.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

12
Intel Core i7 2700K has 12 GPU execution units, which is fewer than 62.8% of processors and equal to 9.2% of processors.
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

850 MHz
Intel Core i7 2700K has an integrated GPU clock of 850 MHz which is higher than that of 98.1% of processors and equal to that of 0.1% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

H.264 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i7 2700K supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 58.1% of processors and equal to 1.3% of processors.
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

95 W
Intel Core i7 2700K has a TDP of 95 W which is higher than that of 88.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.8% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

95 W
Intel Core i7 2700K has a base power of 95 W which is higher than that of 88.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.8% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

95 W
Intel Core i7 2700K has a boost power of 95 W which is higher than that of 67.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.4% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

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Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

no
Intel Core i7 2700K does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i7 2700K vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i7 2700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i7 2700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i7 2700K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
    What it is: A stock CPU cooler is included in the box with the processor.
    When it matters: When total build cost matters and you need to know whether separate cooling must be bought right away.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i7 2700K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i7 2700K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
    When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i7 2700K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 52.5% faster Blender rendering
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (506 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the BMW27 scene, used to show how quickly the processor can finish a heavy 3D rendering task.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >290

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (506 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.506 vs 331.88
  • 2.9x more popular
    Intel Core i7 2700K is more popular than the average processor (2.90 vs 1.000).
    What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
    When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
    Intel Core i7 2700K is more popular than the average processor (2.90 vs 1.000).2.9 vs 1
  • 7.14x cheaper
    Intel Core i7 2700K is cheaper than the average processor (£35 vs £250).
    Intel Core i7 2700K is cheaper than the average processor (£35 vs £250).£35 vs £250
  • 2.43x higher GPU clock speed
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (850 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.
    What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
    When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=350 MHz

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (850 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.850 MHz vs 350 MHz
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 2700K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2 MB/core

    Intel Core i7 2700K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i7 2700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 52.5% faster Blender rendering
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (506 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 2700K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i7 2700K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2.43x higher GPU clock speed
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (850 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.
  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i7 2700K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i7 2700K supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 9 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i7 2700K has an older release date than the average processor (2,011 vs 2,020).
    October 2011
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 2700K does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 54.2% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (674 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 27% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,812 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 2700K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 52.2% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,293 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 45.9% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (5,694 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 37.5% lower bus transfer rate
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
  • 37.5% lower bus speed
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower bus speed than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
  • 2.67x larger process node
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher process node than the average processor (32 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i7 2700K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Sandy Bridge vs Kaby Lake).
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 2700K has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 21.3% larger die size
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher die size than the average processor (216 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 33.3% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • Less advanced foundry
    Intel Core i7 2700K uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 32 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 54.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (21 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i7 2700K supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
  • 54.6% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (1,333 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • Older PCIe version
    Intel Core i7 2700K supports an older PCIe version than the average processor (2 vs 3.0).
  • 50% less memory capacity
    Intel Core i7 2700K has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (32 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • Inferior integrated GPU
    Intel Core i7 2700K uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 3,000 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 50% fewer GPU execution units
    Intel Core i7 2700K has fewer GPU execution units than the average processor (12 vs 24). The average processor has 24 GPU execution units.
  • 2.11x higher base power
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i7 2700K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 2.11x higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher TDP than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 48.4% higher boost power
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 2 °C lower TJ Max
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower TJ Max than the average processor (98 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 54.2% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (674 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (674 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.674 vs 1,471
  • 2.67x larger process node
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher process node than the average processor (32 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
    When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <10 nm

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher process node than the average processor (32 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.32 nm vs 12 nm
  • 27% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,812 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (1,812 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.1,812 vs 2,483
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 2700K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
    When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 8+

    Intel Core i7 2700K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
  • 2.11x higher base power
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.95 W vs 45 W
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
    When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4.7 GHz

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 52.2% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,293 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,293 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.2,293 vs 4,793
  • 54.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (21 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
    What it is: The maximum theoretical memory bandwidth the processor can support.
    When it matters: When memory-heavy workloads matter to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >75 GB/s

    Intel Core i7 2700K has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (21 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.21 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 2700K and other processors

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 2700K?

  • Exceptional overclocking headroom, often reaching 4.8GHz to 5.0GHz on air or water cooling
  • Highly efficient power consumption compared to previous generations and contemporary competitors
  • Significant performance boost for multi-threaded tasks like 3D rendering and video editing via Hyper-Threading
  • Uses a soldered Integrated Heat Spreader (IHS), which aids in maintaining lower operating temperatures
  • Remained a viable and stable performer for many years after its 2011 launch
  • Fully unlocked multiplier makes the overclocking process simple and accessible for enthusiasts

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 2700K?

  • Minimal performance gain (roughly 2-3%) over the cheaper i7-2600K, which could often be overclocked to match it
  • Higher initial price tag compared to the i7-2600K for what many considered a minor 'speed bump'
  • Integrated HD 3000 graphics are insufficient for modern gaming or high-end enthusiast needs
  • Requires aftermarket cooling for high overclocks as it can heat up quickly under heavy load
  • Dated architecture lacks modern features like native M.2 NVMe support and PCIe Gen 3.0
  • Significant bottleneck for modern high-end GPUs due to its aging IPC and platform limitations

Expert reviews

F
forums.bit-tech.net
22/10/2011

The Bit-Tech forum review of the Intel Core i7-2700K describes the 32nm, 4-core processor as a final "speed bump" for the LGA 1155 platform, offering a modest 100 MHz increase over the i7-2600K. While maintaining 3.5 GHz base frequency and D2 revision architecture, the chip proves to be a top performer with exceptional overclocking capabilities, achieving stable speeds of 5.0 GHz...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
20/04/2012

The PCMag review highlights the Intel Core i7-2700K as the premier Sandy Bridge processor upon its release, offering top-tier performance for 3D rendering and video encoding. While delivering excellent single-core and multi-threaded results, the chip serves primarily as a minor speed enhancement over the i7-2600K rather than a revolutionary upgrade. A key advantage is its unlocked...Read more

T
techradar.com
01/12/2011

TechRadar characterizes the Intel Core i7-2700K as a fast, albeit redundant, "speed bump" in the Sandy Bridge lineup, serving as a marginally faster version of the i7-2600K with excellent multi-threaded performance. Pros include its status as a top-tier mainstream CPU with massive overclocking headroom (achieving stable 4.8GHz on air). However, the negligible 3% performance gain...Read more

L
legitreviews.com
24/10/2011

The Legit Reviews analysis of the Intel Core i7-2700K describes the 3.5 GHz (3.9 GHz Turbo) processor as a modest "speed bump" rather than a major architectural leap, delivering a roughly 3% performance gain over the i7-2600K. While offering superior performance and power efficiency against competitors like the AMD FX-8150 in multi-threaded workloads, the chip features minimal...Read more

K
kitguru.net
27/10/2011

The Intel Core i7-2700K is presented as a high-binned flagship for the Sandy Bridge LGA1155 platform, serving as a minor 100MHz update over the 2600K that offers superior stability for enthusiasts. It is recognized for exceptional rendering performance, outperforming older high-end chips like the i7-990X while maintaining low power consumption. The CPU is praised for its unlocked...Read more

E
eteknix.com
28/10/2011

The eTeknix review describes the Intel Core i7-2700K as a slightly faster, "cherry-picked" version of the i7-2600K designed to compete with AMD's FX-8150. Pros include top-tier gaming and rendering performance, excellent power efficiency from the 32nm Sandy Bridge architecture, and high overclocking capability. Cons include the high heat generated at extreme frequencies, requiring...Read more

A
au-ja.de
04/11/2011

The Intel Core i7-2700K (Sandy Bridge) is a high-performance 32nm quad-core processor running at 3.5 GHz (3.9 GHz Turbo), serving as a minor refresh with exceptional multi-threaded performance and strong energy efficiency. Pros include excellent overclocking capabilities (reaching 4.8–5.0 GHz) enabled by a soldered heat spreader and unlocked multiplier, alongside improved integrated...Read more

H
hardware-mag.de
09. März 2012

The Intel Core i7-2700K is a 32nm Sandy Bridge flagship operating at a 3.5 GHz base/3.9 GHz Turbo clock, featuring 4 cores/8 threads and a 95W TDP. Reviewed as a minor "speed bump" over the i7-2600K, it provides roughly a 3% performance increase due to a higher multiplier. The processor boasts excellent thermal efficiency and high overclocking potential, often reaching 4.8 GHz to...Read more

C
computerwoche.de
11. März 2012

The Intel Core i7-2700K is a high-performing "speed bump" in the Sandy Bridge line, featuring four cores, eight threads, and boosted clock speeds of 3.5 GHz base to 3.9 GHz Turbo. It serves as a top-tier LGA 1155 option, maintaining a 95W TDP and 8 MB L3 cache while offering excellent multi-threaded performance, particularly against competitors like the AMD FX-8150. Significant pros...Read more

G
gamestar.de
04. Februar 2012

The GameStar review of the Intel Core i7-2700K describes it as a high-performance, slight update to the Sandy Bridge line, operating at a 3.5 GHz base and 3.9 GHz turbo clock speed. Offering only a 100 MHz increase over the i7-2600K, it acts as a "speed bump" designed for new high-end system builders rather than a new architectural breakthrough. Key advantages include exceptional...Read more

H
hardwareluxx.de
10/11/2011

The Hardwareluxx review identifies the Intel Core i7-2700K as the top-tier Sandy Bridge flagship for the LGA 1155 socket, functioning as a "speed bump" rather than a new architecture. It features 4 cores, 8 threads, 8 MB L3 cache, and a 32nm process, offering a base clock of 3.5 GHz and a 3.9 GHz turbo, marking a 100 MHz increase over the i7-2600K. While delivering a roughly 3%...Read more

L
lemondenumerique.ouest-france.fr
19/12/2011

The Intel Core i7-2700K is identified as a high-performance Sandy Bridge processor operating at a 3.5 GHz base clock, featuring four cores and eight threads for demanding tasks. It delivers exceptional overclocking capability, frequently reaching 4.8 GHz to 5 GHz on air cooling, combined with efficient power management. However, the chip represents only a marginal 100 MHz speed...Read more

C
cowcotland.com
19/12/2011

The Cowcotland review highlights the Intel Core i7-2700K as a 100MHz faster, 32nm Sandy Bridge flagship (3.5GHz base/3.9GHz Turbo) over the i7-2600K for the LGA 1155 socket. While offering only marginal performance gains (roughly 3%) in benchmarks, it maintains its position as a top-tier performer. Pros include exceptional, fully unlocked overclocking potential—with some samples...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
02/12/2011

The Intel Core i7-2700K serves as a minor "speed bump" update to the Sandy Bridge architecture, featuring four cores and eight threads with a base clock of 3.5 GHz and a 3.9 GHz Turbo. It delivers top-tier, high-end multi-threaded performance, effectively reclaiming the performance crown from competitors in specific tests. Pros include exceptional overclocking headroom, often...Read more

G
geeknetic.es
23/04/2012

The Geeknetic review of the Intel Core i7-3770K highlights the processor as the "Ivy Bridge" flagship, which introduces a 22nm manufacturing process and "3D" Tri-Gate transistors, providing a 15-20% performance improvement. The chip features high energy efficiency with a 77W TDP, native USB 3.0, and PCI Express 3.0 support, alongside significantly improved HD 4000 integrated...Read more

H
hardzone.es
17/04/2012

The HardZone review highlights a clear division where Intel Sandy Bridge dominates in raw CPU processing power, offering superior IPC for intensive tasks, but suffers from inferior integrated graphics. Conversely, AMD Trinity is presented as a superior "all-in-one" solution with a massive advantage in gaming performance due to its Radeon HD graphics core, though its Piledriver-based...Read more

X
xtremehardware.com
13/01/2012

The XtremeHardware review highlights the Intel Core i7-2700K as a minor evolutionary step for the Sandy Bridge architecture, offering a 100 MHz speed bump over the i7-2600K with a 3.5 GHz base clock. It retains 4 cores, 8 threads, and an 8 MB L3 cache, positioning itself as the new, albeit conservative, flagship for the LGA 1155 platform. Key advantages, or pros, include the...Read more

T
tomshw.it
23/04/2026

The Tom's Hardware review of the Intel Core i7-3770K highlights the 22nm Ivy Bridge CPU as a power-efficient, refined successor to Sandy Bridge, featuring improved IPC, native PCIe 3.0, and faster HD Graphics 4000. Compared to the i7-2700K and i5-2550K, the 3770K provides superior multi-threaded performance via Hyper-Threading, although the jump in raw speed is incremental, with...Read more

T
tweakers.net
11/01/2022

The Intel Core i7-2700K serves as a marginal 100 MHz "speed bump" over the 2600K, utilizing the same Sandy Bridge architecture to reclaim the performance lead at launch. While praised for exceptional overclocking potential—easily reaching 5.0 GHz on air—the chip is considered a dull upgrade for existing Sandy Bridge owners, offering no new architectural features. Proved to be a...Read more

I
id.nl
23/04/2012

The Intel Core i7-3770K, a 22nm Ivy Bridge processor, offers improved efficiency with a 77W TDP, featuring a 3.5 GHz base clock and significant integrated graphics (HD 4000) improvements, including DirectX 11 support. Pros include enhanced power efficiency, native USB 3.0/PCIe 3.0 support on Z77 boards, and backward compatibility with LGA 1155 motherboards. However, cons include...Read more

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