OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

Intel Core i7 6700 Review | 78 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£110
  • Avg. price in US: ~$100
  • PassMark benchmark result: 8045
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.0 GHz

Intel Core i7 6700 review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.0

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%

4.5

Technical Score

10.0%

9.2

User score

Good
4.5

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%

3.9

Performance

18.0%

4.8

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.2

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.5

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.8

Platform

1.0%

6.8

Integrated Graphics

Poor
9.2

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%

8.9

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(666)
amazon
4.3
(178)
amazon
4.3
(90)
amazon
3.8
(20)
amazon
5.0
(3)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.4
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.6

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.7

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    4.6

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 2.3
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    2.4

    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

  • intel-core-i7-6700
intel-core-i7-6700

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The Intel Core i7-6700 is a 6th-generation Skylake-S desktop processor featuring 4 cores and 8 threads with a 3.40 GHz base frequency and a 4.00 GHz max turbo boost. Built on a 14nm process with a 65W TDP, it includes 8MB of Intel Smart Cache and integrated Intel HD Graphics 530, supporting both DDR4-2133 and DDR3L-1600 memory. Its main pros include reliable quad-core performance for multitasking and older games, low power consumption compared to 'K' series models, and the inclusion of a stock cooler. However, its primary cons are a locked multiplier that prevents overclocking and the lack of official support for Windows 11.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 6700

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%

3.9

Performance

18.0%

4.8

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.2

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.5

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.8

Platform

1.0%

6.8

Integrated Graphics

4.5
Intel Core i7 6700 has a technical score of 4.55 points, which is lower than that of 64.7% 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%

8.9

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(666)
amazon
4.3
(178)
amazon
4.3
(90)
amazon
3.8
(20)
amazon
5.0
(3)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.2
Intel Core i7 6700 has a user score of 9.2 points, which is higher than that of 89.4% 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.
10
Intel Core i7 6700 has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 88.3% 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%

5.0

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

6.5
Intel Core i7 6700 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.5 points, which is higher than 53% 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 6700 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

LGA1151
Intel Core i7 6700 uses the LGA1151 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 60.1% of processors and equal to that of 9.7% 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

Intel 100 Series, Intel 200 Series
Intel Core i7 6700 supports Intel 100 Series, Intel 200 Series chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 50% of processors and equal to that of 2.1% of processors.
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 6700 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.
Show more
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 6700 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 6700 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 6700 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

4.0 GHz
Intel Core i7 6700 reaches a boost clock of 4.0 GHz which is lower than that of 59.8% of processors and equal to that of 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 3.4 GHz & 4 x 3.7 GHz
Intel Core i7 6700 has a base clock of 4x3.4 GHz & 4x3.7 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
Show more
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

14 nm
Intel Core i7 6700 uses a 14 nm process node, which is older than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 33.7% 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 14 nm
Intel Core i7 6700 is built on the Intel 14 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 55.2% of processors and equal to that of 29.3% 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 6700 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 6700 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 6700 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.
Show more
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

DDR3L/DDR4
Intel Core i7 6700 supports DDR DDR3L/DDR4, which is older than that of 77.7% of processors and equal to that of 5.4% 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

2,133 MHz
Intel Core i7 6700 supports memory speeds up to 2133 MHz, which is lower than that of 75.6% of processors and equal to 8.8% 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

DDR4-2133 MHz
Intel Core i7 6700 supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2133 MHz, which is lower than that of 75.9% of processors and equal to 5.3% 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

?
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

64 GB
Intel Core i7 6700 supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% of processors.
Show more
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 6700 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 530
Intel Core i7 6700 uses the Intel HD Graphics 530 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 78.4% of processors and equal to that in 2.3% 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

24
Intel Core i7 6700 has 24 GPU execution units, which is more than 49.2% of processors and equal to 21.6% 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

350 MHz
Intel Core i7 6700 has an integrated GPU clock of 350 MHz which is higher than that of 43.5% of processors and equal to that of 29.6% 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), H.265 (HW decode), VP9 (HW decode), VP8 (HW decode), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode), VC-1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i7 6700 supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode), VP9 (HW decode), VP8 (HW decode), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode), VC-1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is broader support than 94.3% of processors and equal to 0.2% of processors.
Show more
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

65 W
Intel Core i7 6700 has a TDP of 65 W which is higher than that of 70% of processors and equal to that of 16.1% 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

65 W
Intel Core i7 6700 has a base power of 65 W which is higher than that of 70.3% of processors and equal to that of 16.4% 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

81 W
Intel Core i7 6700 has a boost power of 81 W which is higher than that of 55.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% 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

8 seconds
Intel Core i7 6700 has a turbo duration of 8 seconds which is longer than that of 89.1% of processors and equal to that of 7.1% of processors.
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 6700 does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
Show more

Intel Core i7 6700 vs the average processor

  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i7 6700 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 6700 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i7 6700 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 6700 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 31.5% smaller die size
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower die size than the average processor (122 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
    What it is: The physical area of the processor die, usually measured in square millimeters.
    When it matters: When you are comparing chip scale, packaging density, or broader design differences rather than direct user-visible performance.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <150 mm²

    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower die size than the average processor (122 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².122 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 10x more popular
    Intel Core i7 6700 is more popular than the average processor (10.00 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 6700 is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • Includes crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 6700 includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Built-in hardware support for accelerating encryption and cryptographic tasks.
    When it matters: When encryption speed or secure workloads matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i7 6700 includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.AES, SHA, RSA/PKA vs AES, SHA
  • 15% higher user score
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher user score than the average processor (9.20 vs 8.000).
    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.
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher user score than the average processor (9.20 vs 8.000).9.2 vs 8
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 6700 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP2).
    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

    Intel Core i7 6700 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP2).LGA1151 vs FP2
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 6700 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 6700 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
  • Includes crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 6700 includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 6700 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP2).
  • 1 wider front-end design
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher front-end width than the average processor (5 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
  • 31.5% smaller die size
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower die size than the average processor (122 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 6700 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 6700 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i7 6700 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.

Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i7 6700 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 5 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i7 6700 has an older release date than the average processor (2,015 vs 2,020).
    January 2015
  • 26.4% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (356 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 6700 has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 7% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 10.2% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,321 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 8.4% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,275 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 23.6% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (8,045 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 13.7% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (4,135 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 6700 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 6700 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.
  • 33.3% smaller L1 cache
    Intel Core i7 6700 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 microarchitecture
    Intel Core i7 6700 uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Skylake vs Kaby Lake).
  • 25.5% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (34.1 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 27.3% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,133 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i7 6700 supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3L/DDR4 vs DDR4).
  • Inferior integrated GPU
    Intel Core i7 6700 uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 530 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i7 6700 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 26.6% higher boost power
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (81 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 20 seconds shorter turbo duration
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (8 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
  • 26.4% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (356 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about lighter workloads, interface responsiveness, or software that still depends heavily on one fast core.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >600

    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (356 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.356 vs 484
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 6700 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 6700 has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher process node than the average processor (14 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 6700 has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 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 6700 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.65 W vs 45 W
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 6700 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.
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    Intel Core i7 6700 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.0.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 6700 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.
    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

    Intel Core i7 6700 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.1 MB vs 2.5 MB
  • 7% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 6700 has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4 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 6700 has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.4.0 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i7 6700 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
    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

    Intel Core i7 6700 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 6700 and other processors

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
666 Reviews
amazon
4.3
178 Reviews
amazon
4.3
90 Reviews
amazon
3.8
20 Reviews
amazon
5.0
3 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 6700?

  • Reliable workhorse for multitasking and productivity tasks like music production and photo editing.
  • Efficient power consumption (65W TDP) compared to 'K' models and older generations.
  • Handles modern 1080p gaming well when paired with a decent GPU.
  • Runs relatively cool even with a standard stock fan; no liquid cooling required.
  • Significant performance upgrade for users moving from older i3 or i5 processors.
  • Solid support for multi-threaded workloads due to Hyper-Threading (8 threads).

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 6700?

  • Locked multiplier prevents overclocking, limiting performance gains for enthusiasts.
  • Struggles with modern CPU-intensive tasks such as 4K video editing.
  • Older 4-core architecture is becoming a bottleneck in the latest high-end AAA games.
  • Stock cooler can be somewhat noisy when the processor is under heavy load.
  • Integrated graphics (HD 530) are considered poor for anything beyond basic tasks or light gaming.
  • Limited upgrade path as it uses the older LGA 1151 socket (6th/7th gen chipsets).

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
01/09/2015
Intel Core i7-6700 @ 3.40GHz - CPU Benchmarks

The Intel Core i7-6700 is a 6th-generation Skylake quad-core processor released in late 2015, featuring a 3.40 GHz base clock, 4.00 GHz boost, and integrated Intel HD Graphics 530. It provides strong single-threaded performance (2,275 PassMark score) and includes Hyper-Threading, allowing it to handle 8 threads for improved multitasking in workstation tasks, backed by 8 MB of Smart...Read more

C
cpu.userbenchmark.com
01/12/2015
Intel Core i7-6700 BX80662I76700 - CPU UserBenchmarks

The Intel Core i7-6700, a 14nm Skylake processor from 2015, operates at 3.4 GHz with a 4.0 GHz boost, making it a functional, efficient option for 1080p gaming and general computing, featuring a 65W TDP. Key pros include strong performance in older titles when paired with a modern GPU, reliable multitasking with 8 threads, and broad compatibility with both DDR3L and DDR4 memory....Read more

C
clubic.com
21/04/2016
DirectX 12: When the Best and Worst Go Hand in Hand (Test Protocol using the i7-6700)", "DirectX 12: Where the Best Meets the Worst (Test Protocol wit...

Clubic describes DirectX 12 as a "double-edged sword" that offers significant technical potential—such as "closer-to-the-metal" control to reduce CPU overhead—but suffers from inconsistent real-world implementation and lack of native multi-GPU support. Performance results are mixed, with AMD hardware often seeing boosts in early titles due to asynchronous compute, while many games...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
laptopspirit.fr
10/02/2016
Web Review Roundup: Asus ZenBook Pro UX501VW (i7-6700)

The Asus ZenBook Pro UX501VW is a powerful 15-inch, 0.8-inch thin, all-metal Ultrabook designed for creators, featuring a 15.6-inch 4K UHD IPS touch display. It provides strong performance, typically equipped with an Intel Core i7-6700HQ processor, 16GB of RAM, and a fast 512GB PCIe SSD. Key advantages include the addition of a Thunderbolt 3/USB-C port and impressive battery life,...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
30/12/2017
Chrome, Edge, Firefox, Opera: which browser is the best performer?

Les Numériques identifies Microsoft Edge as the top performer for Windows 10, boasting fast startup speeds under 0.30s and high efficiency, though with fewer customization options. Google Chrome maintains superior web compatibility and synchronization, yet it is criticized for being a major "memory hog" with high RAM consumption. Firefox stands out for its independent engine and...Read more

(Translated)Show original
M
messoanuovo.it
30/03/2026
Intel Core i7-6700: Technical Specifications and CPU Performance

The Messoanuovo review identifies the Intel Core i7-6700 as a reliable 6th Generation Skylake processor, featuring 4 cores and 8 threads with a 65W TDP. Key advantages include its excellent power efficiency, ability to operate with lower temperatures than the 'K' series, and support for both DDR4 and DDR3L memory. While not top-tier technology, it offers sufficient performance for...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
30/06/2017
Intel Core i7-6700 User Reviews

The Intel Core i7-6700, based on the 14nm Skylake architecture, is a 65W TDP quad-core processor featuring a 3.4 GHz base clock, 4.0 GHz boost, and support for DDR4/DDR3L memory. As noted on Tweakers, key pros include an excellent power-to-performance ratio, offering similar real-world speed to the 'K' variant in non-overclocked scenarios with lower temperatures. It supports...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
17/02/2016
Tweakers - Intel Core i7-6700 Boxed review by Ags1

The Intel Core i7-6700 is described as a reliable, 6th Generation Skylake "workhorse" featuring four cores, eight threads, and a 3.4 GHz base clock, capable of handling productivity and gaming. Key pros include its 65W TDP for excellent energy efficiency and low temperatures, alongside good multi-threaded performance and native DDR4 support. However, as a non-K processor, it lacks...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

Best alternatives

amd-ryzen-5-7500f
AMD Ryzen 5 7500F

Processors

7.0
amd-ryzen-5-7400f
AMD Ryzen 5 7400F

Processors

6.8
amd-ryzen-5-8500g
AMD Ryzen 5 8500G

Processors

7.3
intel-core-ultra-5-225
Intel Core Ultra 5 225

Processors

7.8
amd-ryzen-5-5500gt
AMD Ryzen 5 5500GT

Processors

6.3
amd-ryzen-5-5600gt
AMD Ryzen 5 5600GT

Processors

6.2
amd-ryzen-5-8400f
AMD Ryzen 5 8400F

Processors

6.9
amd-ryzen-7-5700
AMD Ryzen 7 5700

Processors

6.5
amd-ryzen-5-7600
AMD Ryzen 5 7600

Processors

7.1
amd-ryzen-5-5600x
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

Processors

5.9
intel-core-i3-14100
Intel Core i3 14100

Processors

6.4
intel-core-i5-8600
Intel Core i5 8600

Processors

5.8

Compare Intel Core i7 6700 with other processors

VS
VS

Compare