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Intel Core i7 6700K Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price: ~£70
PassMark benchmark result: 8940
N. of physical cores: 4
CPU boost clock speed: 4.2 GHz
CPU socket: LGA1151
TDP (Thermal design power): 91 W

Intel Core i7 6700K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Processors category and whether it is worth buying.

5.4

Good

5.0

Good

9.5

Exceptional

7.3
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
?
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
?
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
6.7
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
?
L3 cache
8.0%
2.8
N. of physical cores
7.0
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
?
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
2.8
N. of physical cores
20.0%
?
CPU threads
15.0%
?
L3 cache

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Verdict

The Intel Core i7-6700K is a high-performance, 6th Generation 'Skylake' desktop processor built on a 14nm lithography, featuring 4 cores and 8 threads with a base frequency of 4.00 GHz and a max turbo frequency of 4.20 GHz. Key characteristics include an 8 MB Intel Smart Cache, a 91W TDP, and support for up to 64 GB of dual-channel DDR4-2133 or DDR3L-1600 memory. Its primary advantages are its unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking, significantly improved memory bandwidth via DDR4 support, and integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 that supports 4K resolution. However, notable drawbacks include its lack of a bundled stock cooler, the requirement for a new LGA1151 motherboard (Z170 chipset), and the fact that it is officially unsupported for Windows 11.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 6700K

Overall score

5.4

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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.

Platform

7.7

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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: LOW

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: LOW

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: LOW

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: LOW

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: LOW

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Performance

4.6

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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+

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+

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: LOW

Good value: 2

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

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

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Cache & Architecture

5.0

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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: MEDIUM

Good value: <10 nm

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: LOW

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

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

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: LOW

Good value: >=512 KB

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Memory & PCIe

5.2

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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: LOW

Good value: DDR5

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: LOW

Good value: >=4800 MHz

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: LOW

Good value: >=5600 MHz

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: LOW

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: LOW

Good value: >=128 GB

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Integrated Graphics

6.2

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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: LOW

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: LOW

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: LOW

Good value: >=24

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: LOW

Good value: >=350 MHz

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

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Power & Thermal

5.8

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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: LOW

Good value: <30 W

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: LOW

Good value: <30 W

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: LOW

Good value: <50 W

?

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: LOW

Good value: <=28 s

?

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

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Intel Core i7 6700K vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i7 6700K better than the average processor?

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Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i7 6700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not. 21.7% of processors have an unlocked multiplier.
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: LOW
Intel Core i7 6700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not. 21.7% of processors have an unlocked multiplier.
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i7 6700K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not. 43.6% of processors support memory overclocking.
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: LOW
Intel Core i7 6700K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not. 43.6% of processors support memory overclocking.
31.1% smaller die size
Intel Core i7 6700K has a lower die size than the average processor (122 mm² vs 177 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 177 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 6700K has a lower die size than the average processor (122 mm² vs 177 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 177 mm².122 mm² vs 177 mm²
10x more popular
Intel Core i7 6700K 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 6700K is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
Advanced security extensions
Intel Core i7 6700K provides more advanced security extensions than the average processor (AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Key, SGX, TXT, MPX, OS Guard, Boot Guard vs AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Processor).
What it is: The supported hardware security extensions provided by the processor.
When it matters: When you care about security, encryption, or enterprise features.
Importance: LOW
Intel Core i7 6700K provides more advanced security extensions than the average processor (AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Key, SGX, TXT, MPX, OS Guard, Boot Guard vs AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Processor).AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Key, SGX, TXT, MPX, OS Guard, Boot Guard vs AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Processor
19.4% higher user score
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher user score than the average processor (9.55 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 6700K has a higher user score than the average processor (9.55 vs 8.000).9.55 vs 8
Supports HMP
Intel Core i7 6700K supports HMP, the average processor does not. 22.7% of processors support HMP.
What it is: Uses heterogeneous multi-processing to coordinate different core types together.
When it matters: When hybrid-core scheduling behavior matters for efficiency, workload balancing, or lower-level software behavior.
Importance: LOW
Intel Core i7 6700K supports HMP, the average processor does not. 22.7% of processors support HMP.
Modern CPU socket
Intel Core i7 6700K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP4).
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: LOW
Intel Core i7 6700K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP4).LGA1151 vs FP4
Advanced security extensions
Intel Core i7 6700K provides more advanced security extensions than the average processor (AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Key, SGX, TXT, MPX, OS Guard, Boot Guard vs AES-NI, NX bit, Secure Processor).
Supports HMP
Intel Core i7 6700K supports HMP, the average processor does not. 22.7% of processors support HMP.
Modern CPU socket
Intel Core i7 6700K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP4).
Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i7 6700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not. 21.7% of processors have an unlocked multiplier.
Higher base clock
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher base clock than the average processor (4x4 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz).
12 higher clock multiplier
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (40 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
31.1% smaller die size
Intel Core i7 6700K has a lower die size than the average processor (122 mm² vs 177 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 177 mm².
16.7% more L3 per core
Intel Core i7 6700K 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 6700K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not. 43.6% of processors support memory overclocking.

Cache & Architecture

Why is Intel Core i7 6700K worse than the average processor?

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5 older release date
Intel Core i7 6700K has an older release date than the average processor (2015 vs 2020).
August 2015
No crypto acceleration
Intel Core i7 6700K does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does. 0% of processors include crypto acceleration.
2 fewer CPU cores
Intel Core i7 6700K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
75.6% slower classroom rendering
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (81.6 vs 334.1). The average processor needs 334.1 for the Blender Classroom test.
26.2% weaker multi-core performance
Intel Core i7 6700K has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (2059 vs 2,791). The average processor scores 2,791 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
15.4% lower PassMark score
Intel Core i7 6700K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (8,940 vs 10,572.5). The average processor scores 10,572.5 in PassMark benchmark.
2.3% lower boost clock
Intel Core i7 6700K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (4.2 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
16.7% larger process node
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
50% less L2 per core
Intel Core i7 6700K 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.
60% smaller L2 cache
Intel Core i7 6700K 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.
33.3% smaller L1 cache
Intel Core i7 6700K 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 6700K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Skylake vs Kaby Lake).
64.6% fewer transistors
Intel Core i7 6700K has fewer transistors than the average processor (1.8 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
25.5% lower memory bandwidth
Intel Core i7 6700K 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 6700K 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.
Lower JEDEC memory speed
Intel Core i7 6700K has a lower JEDEC memory speed than the average processor (DDR4-2133 MHz vs DDR4-3200 MHz). The average processor supports JEDEC memory speed of DDR4-3200 MHz.
Older DDR support
Intel Core i7 6700K supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3L/DDR4 vs DDR4).
Narrower media codec support
Intel Core i7 6700K supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (VP9 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
Inferior integrated GPU
Intel Core i7 6700K uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 530 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i7 6700K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does. 52.8% of processors support configurable TDP.
2.02x higher base power
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (91 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
2.02x higher TDP
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher TDP than the average processor (91 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
2 fewer CPU cores
Intel Core i7 6700K 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 6700K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i7 6700K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does. 52.8% of processors support 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
Intel Core i7 6700K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does. 52.8% of processors support configurable TDP.
2.02x higher base power
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (91 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: LOW
Good value: <30 W
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (91 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.91 W vs 45 W
75.6% slower classroom rendering
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (81.6 vs 334.1). The average processor needs 334.1 for the Blender Classroom test.
What it is: A Blender render result based on the Classroom scene, used to show how quickly the processor can complete a demanding rendering workload.
When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >1500
Intel Core i7 6700K has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (81.6 vs 334.1). The average processor needs 334.1 for the Blender Classroom test.81.55 vs 334.1
16.7% larger process node
Intel Core i7 6700K 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: MEDIUM
Good value: <10 nm
Intel Core i7 6700K 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
50% less L2 per core
Intel Core i7 6700K 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 6700K 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 6700K 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 6700K 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
26.2% weaker multi-core performance
Intel Core i7 6700K has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (2059 vs 2,791). The average processor scores 2,791 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
What it is: A Cinebench R20 score that reflects how well the processor handles long, heavy rendering workloads across many cores.
When it matters: When you care about sustained multi-core performance in rendering, compiling, heavy creation work, or productivity workloads that use many threads.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >4700
Intel Core i7 6700K has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (2059 vs 2,791). The average processor scores 2,791 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.2,059 vs 2,791

Cache & Architecture

Integrated Graphics

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 6700K and other processors

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 6700K?

Excellent single-threaded and multi-threaded performance for its era, especially in rendering and video editing.
Easier overclocking navigation with increased headroom, often reaching 4.6GHz to 4.7GHz with stable air or liquid cooling.
Introduction of DDR4 memory support, providing higher bandwidth for productivity applications.
The Z170 chipset offers significant connectivity upgrades, including more PCIe 3.0 lanes for high-speed NVMe storage and USB 3.1 support.
Noticeable performance leap (up to 30-50%) for users upgrading from older architectures like Sandy Bridge or Ivy Bridge.

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 6700K?

Requires a total platform upgrade, necessitating a new LGA 1151 motherboard and typically new DDR4 RAM.
Incremental performance gains (only about 5-10%) for those already using Haswell-based chips like the i7-4790K.
Conservative stock Turbo Boost frequency (4.2GHz) compared to some previous enthusiast models.
Higher thermal output and power consumption under full load compared to some predecessors.
Integrated graphics (HD 530), while improved, remain insufficient for modern high-end gaming.

Expert reviews

kitguru.net

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-6700K & i5-6600K Skylake CPU Review - KitGuru

KitGuru's review of the Intel Core i7-6700K and i5-6600K details the Skylake architecture, highlighting the shift to the LGA 1151 socket and Z170 chipset, which brings native DDR4 support and improved PCIe 3.0 connectivity. The CPUs offer solid, "excellent" performance gains in productivity and rendering over previous generations, along with the reintroduction of full-range BCLK tuning for superior overclocking capabilities. However, the upgrade is costly, requiring new motherboards and RAM, and power consumption is slightly higher due to the integrated GPU, making the performance jump less compelling for users on recent platforms.

tomshardware.com

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Skylake: Intel's Core i7-6700K And i5-6600K | Tom's Hardware

Intel's 6th Gen Skylake processors (i7-6700K and i5-6600K) debut on the 14nm process, utilizing the new LGA 1151 socket, Z170 chipset, and DDR4/DDR3L memory support, resulting in high efficiency and performance. While offering solid IPC gains and superior overclocking (up to 4.7GHz) for enthusiasts, the integrated HD Graphics 530 performance is underwhelming, and the platform requires new motherboards and memory. Ultimately, these CPUs provide high-performance, modern features but offer better value for new builds rather than as an upgrade from recent generations.

pcmag.com

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-6700K Review - PCMag

The Intel Core i7-6700K ("Skylake") is a high-performance quad-core processor featuring a 4GHz base clock and supporting both DDR4 and DDR3L memory, necessitating a new LGA 1151 socket and Z170 chipset motherboard. It excels in raw speed, enhanced with faster integrated Intel HD Graphics 530 and increased PCIe 3.0 lanes for improved storage performance, along with easier overclocking capabilities for enthusiasts. While delivering top-tier performance for creators, the CPU's primary drawbacks include the high cost of upgrading motherboards and the existence of the Core i5-6600K as a more budget-friendly option for gamers.

hardwareluxx.de

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Skylake: Core i7-6700K and Core i5-6600K Review

Hardwareluxx reviewed the Intel Core i7-6700K and i5-6600K, marking the 14nm Skylake architecture transition to the LGA 1151 socket with Z170 chipset support for DDR4. The i7-6700K delivers superior multi-threaded performance due to Hyper-Threading, while the i5-6600K provides a more cost-effective option, both offering solid IPC improvements, especially with improved overclocking via BCLK tuning. Key pros include high efficiency and flexible overclocking, while cons highlight the high cost of platform upgrades and significant thermal output on the i7 under load. Copy

hardware.fr

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Skylake Review: Core i7-6700K and Core i5-6600K

The Hardware.fr review of the Intel Core i7-6700K and i5-6600K highlights the 14nm Skylake architecture and LGA 1151 socket as a major platform transition supporting DDR4 and the Z170 chipset. Performance testing indicates a notable IPC increase over Haswell, with the i7-6700K excelling in multi-threaded tasks and the i5-6600K offering high value for gaming, while boasting improved idle efficiency and restored base clock overclocking. However, the review notes high entry costs due to new, required hardware, alongside concerns regarding the i7-6700K's power consumption, thermals under load, and limited gains over Devil's Canyon for existing high-end users.

hardware.fr

28/09/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-6700K, i5-6600K and Z170 (Printable version) HardWare.fr

The Hardware.fr review of the AMD Radeon R9 Fury X highlights the introduction of High Bandwidth Memory (HBM) on a 4,096-bit bus, enabling a compact 7.5-inch PCB and impressive 4K performance. Key pros include the innovative form factor, excellent all-in-one liquid cooling, and strong bandwidth, while cons center on the 4GB VRAM limitation, limited overclocking, and audible pump noise. The card acts as an architectural precursor, successfully competing with the GTX 980 Ti at high resolutions despite falling short in efficiency and memory capacity compared to Nvidia rivals. Copy

overclocking.com

10/09/2015

Summary of the review

TEST || Core i7 6700K: Skyfail, the disappointment

The Intel Core i7-6700K review highlights a significant shift to the 14nm Skylake architecture and DDR4 memory support, marking a strong, though not revolutionary, update for enthusiasts. While offering only modest performance gains (4-10%) over the i7-4790K at stock speeds, the processor introduces improved efficiency by removing the integrated voltage regulator. The chip is identified as an "overclocking beast" capable of reaching 4.8 GHz with robust cooling, delivering nearly 20% increased performance in multi-threaded tasks, though this brings high thermal output, often reaching 90°C. Key pros include exceptional overclocking headroom, strong single-core performance, and DDR4 support, while cons involve the requirement for a new Z170 motherboard, lack of a stock cooler, and high thermal density. Copy

tomshardware.fr

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Core i7-6700K and i5-6600K: Discovering Skylake

Intel's 6th-generation Skylake CPUs, specifically the Core i7-6700K and Core i5-6600K, introduce the Z170 platform and DDR4 memory support, delivering a significant performance boost for users upgrading from older architectures like Sandy Bridge. While showing iterative gains over Haswell, these processors feature improved thermal management due to the removal of the fully integrated voltage regulator (FIVR). Key advantages include high instructions-per-clock (IPC) gains and flexible, granular overclocking options, though adoption requires a full platform overhaul. Conversely, disadvantages include the need for new LGA 1151 motherboards and DDR4 RAM, along with the lack of a bundled stock cooler and disappointing performance from the integrated HD Graphics 530. Performance tests indicate the i7-6700K excels in multi-threaded tasks, while the i5-6600K is highly efficient for gaming. Copy

cowcotland.com

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-6700K Review

The Intel Core i7-6700K (Skylake) is a 14nm quad-core processor with Hyper-Threading, featuring a 4.0 GHz base and 4.2 GHz turbo frequency, utilizing the Z170 chipset and DDR4 memory. It delivers strong, balanced performance in gaming and heavily threaded applications, outperforming older models like the i7-4790K. Pros include excellent stock speeds, reasonable power consumption (91W TDP), and a modern platform. Conversely, cons focus on underwhelming overclocking results due to thermal paste instead of soldering, and a high cost of entry for limited performance gains over the previous generation. Copy

comptoir-hardware.com

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Review: Intel Z170 and Core i5-6600K / i7-6700K

The Comptoir-Hardware review of Intel’s 14nm Skylake processors shows the Core i7-6700K and i5-6600K delivering 5-10% IPC gains over Haswell, while moving to the LGA 1151 socket and Z170 chipset with native DDR4 support and DMI 3.0. While the i5-6600K provides excellent value for gaming, the i7-6700K offers superior, hyper-threaded performance for workstation tasks. Key advantages include high-speed NVMe connectivity, improved overclocking with granular BCLK control, and sustained efficiency, though the platform requires a mandatory, costly upgrade to new motherboards and RAM. Copy

elchapuzasinformatico.com

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-6700K Review

The El Chapuzas Informático review of the Intel Core i7-6700K highlights the 14nm "Skylake" processor as a flagship LGA1151 CPU with 4 cores/8 threads, operating at 4.0 GHz base and 4.2 GHz turbo speeds. While performance improvements over the i7-4790K are modest, ranging from 4% to 10% in benchmarks, the platform introduces significant upgrades, including DDR4 support, native USB 3.1, and an improved HD Graphics 530 iGPU. Pros include excellent single/multi-core performance and high overclocking potential, though the review notes limitations like the lack of a stock cooler and the "disastrous" retail packaging. For more details, visit El Chapuzas Informático.

madboxpc.com

11/09/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-6700K (Skylake) Review

The MadBoxPC review highlights the Intel Core i7-6700K (Skylake) as a significant 14nm architectural leap, featuring the LGA1151 socket, 4.0 GHz base clock, and DDR4 support. Performance shows a 5-10% improvement over the i7-4790K, with better results in multi-threaded tasks and professional rendering, supported by the new Z170 chipset's USB 3.1 and NVMe capabilities. Key advantages include exceptional overclocking potential and improved power efficiency, though the platform requires a costly upgrade to a new motherboard and DDR4 RAM.

elchapuzasinformatico.com

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-6700K Review

The Intel Core i7-6700K review from El Chapuzas Informático highlights the 14nm Skylake processor as a 4.0 GHz flagship introducing the LGA1151 socket, Z170 chipset, and DDR4 support. While the processor offers strong single-core performance, improved integrated graphics, and solid overclocking potential as key pros, the review criticizes the high platform upgrade cost. Ultimately, the review cites marginal real-world gaming performance gains over Haswell processors as a major drawback, concluding that for many users, the transition offers a poor price-to-performance ratio. Copy

tomshw.it

05/08/2015

Summary of the review

Core i7-6700K and Core i5-6600K Review: Skylake Processors Put to the Test

Intel's 6th Generation "Skylake" processors, the Core i7-6700K and Core i5-6600K, introduce 14nm architecture, the LGA 1151 socket, and DDR4 memory support for enhanced bandwidth. The Z170 chipset offers improved connectivity, including native NVMe SSD support, while the processors provide solid IPC gains for productivity and gaming. Notable pros include exceptional idle power efficiency and increased overclocking flexibility with 1MHz BCLK adjustments. However, the platform transition requires new motherboards and RAM, increasing total upgrade costs. While competitive, the i7-6700K can exceed its 91W TDP under load, and the integrated HD Graphics 530 is considered weak for serious gaming. Furthermore, performance gains over the 4th generation are considered incremental for many users, potentially limiting the value proposition.

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