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Intel Core i7 7700 Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£200
  • Avg. price in US: ~$110
  • PassMark benchmark result: 8646
  • N. of physical cores: 4
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.2 GHz

Intel Core i7 7700 review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.1

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%

4.6

Technical Score

10.0%

9.3

User score

Good
4.6

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%

4.1

Performance

18.0%

4.7

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.3

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.4

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.9

Platform

1.0%

7.2

Integrated Graphics

Poor
9.3

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%

9.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(1107)
amazon
4.5
(223)
amazon
4.6
(13)
amazon
4.0
(8)
amazon
4.6
(3)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 3.8
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    4.0

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    4.1

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    5.2

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.1

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    1.8

    N. of physical cores

  • 2.4
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    2.5

    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-i7-7700
  • intel-core-i7-7700
intel-core-i7-7700
intel-core-i7-7700

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Best rankings

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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 i7-7700 is a 7th-generation Kaby Lake desktop processor featuring 4 cores and 8 threads with a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a max turbo frequency of 4.2 GHz. Built on a 14nm process with a 65W TDP, it includes 8 MB of Intel Smart Cache, supports up to 64 GB of DDR4-2400 or DDR3L-1600 RAM, and features integrated Intel HD Graphics 630 with 4K support at 60Hz. Main pros include its reliable multi-threaded performance for daily productivity, low power consumption, and solid single-core speeds for older gaming titles. However, notable cons include its lack of an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, limited 4-core count compared to modern standards, and its official lack of support for Windows 11.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 7700

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%

4.1

Performance

18.0%

4.7

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.3

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

6.4

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.9

Platform

1.0%

7.2

Integrated Graphics

4.6
Intel Core i7 7700 has a technical score of 4.65 points, which is lower than that of 62.2% 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%

9.0

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
(1107)
amazon
4.5
(223)
amazon
4.6
(13)
amazon
4.0
(8)
amazon
4.6
(3)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.3
Intel Core i7 7700 has a user score of 9.3 points, which is higher than that of 90.2% 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 7700 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%

5.1

Overall score

40.0%

9.5

Price

6.4
Intel Core i7 7700 has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.4 points, which is higher than 49.1% 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 7700 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 7700 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 Core i7 7700 supports Intel 100 Series chipsets, which is narrower compatibility than 51% of processors and equal to that of 2.6% 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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

4.2 GHz
Intel Core i7 7700 reaches a boost clock of 4.2 GHz which is lower than that of 51.9% of processors and equal to that of 4.3% 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 3.6 GHz
Intel Core i7 7700 has a base clock of 4x3.6 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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

2,400 MHz
Intel Core i7 7700 supports memory speeds up to 2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 63.2% of processors and equal to 12.4% 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

2,400 MHz
Intel Core i7 7700 supports JEDEC memory speeds up to 2400 MHz, which is lower than that of 74.1% of processors and equal to 1.8% 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 7700 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 7700 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 630
Intel Core i7 7700 uses the Intel HD Graphics 630 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 73.9% of processors and equal to that in 2.9% 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 7700 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

?
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/encode), VP9 (HW decode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i7 7700 supports H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode), MPEG-2 (HW decode), VC-1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is broader support than 75.8% 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 7700 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 7700 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

?
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 7700 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 7700 does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i7 7700 vs the average processor

  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 29.2% smaller die size
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower die size than the average processor (126 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 7700 has a lower die size than the average processor (126 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².126 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 10x more popular
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
  • 16.2% higher user score
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a higher user score than the average processor (9.30 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 7700 has a higher user score than the average processor (9.30 vs 8.000).9.3 vs 8
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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
  • Broader instruction support
    Intel Core i7 7700 supports a broader instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, CLMUL, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
    What it is: The supported CPU instruction sets and extensions.
    When it matters: When you run software that depends on specific CPU instructions.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i7 7700 supports a broader instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, CLMUL, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, CLMUL, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 7700 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP2).
  • Broader instruction support
    Intel Core i7 7700 supports a broader instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, CLMUL, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 29.2% smaller die size
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower die size than the average processor (126 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i7 7700 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.

Total
Overall
Platform
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal
  • 3 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i7 7700 has an older release date than the average processor (2,017 vs 2,020).
    January 2017
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 7700 does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 7700 has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 14.5% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (414 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 17.9% lower PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (8,646 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 2.3% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 7700 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.
  • 9.1% lower multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (4,356 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • 64.6% fewer transistors
    Intel Core i7 7700 has fewer transistors than the average processor (1.8 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i7 7700 supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3L/DDR4 vs DDR4).
  • 18.2% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,400 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 16.2% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (38.4 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • Inferior integrated GPU
    Intel Core i7 7700 uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 630 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 20 seconds shorter turbo duration
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (8 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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
  • 14.5% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i7 7700 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (414 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 7700 has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (414 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.414 vs 484
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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 7700 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
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i7 7700 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 7700 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • Older DDR support
    Intel Core i7 7700 supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3L/DDR4 vs DDR4).
    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

    Intel Core i7 7700 supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3L/DDR4 vs DDR4).DDR3L/DDR4 vs DDR4
Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 7700 and other processors

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.5
1107 Reviews
amazon
4.5
223 Reviews
amazon
4.6
13 Reviews
amazon
4.0
8 Reviews
amazon
4.6
3 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 7700?

  • Capable of maintaining stable 60 FPS at 1080p in many older and mid-range titles
  • Efficient power-to-performance balance for productivity tasks like 3D modelling and audio editing
  • Reliable for everyday office work and general home computing
  • Includes onboard graphics (Intel HD Graphics 630), which is useful for basic troubleshooting
  • Low heat output compared to higher-end 'K' series variants, making it easy to cool
  • Hardware support for HDR and 4K streaming services

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 7700?

  • Struggles with modern AAA games, often hitting 100% usage and causing frame drops
  • Limited to 4 cores and 8 threads, which is increasingly restrictive for multitasking
  • Dead-end platform (LGA 1151) with no viable future upgrade path without a motherboard change
  • Often considered overpriced on the used market compared to newer, faster budget CPUs
  • Minimal performance gains over the previous generation (i7-6700)
  • Lack of overclocking support compared to the i7-7700K variant

Expert reviews

C
cpu.userbenchmark.com
30/03/2026
Intel Core i7-7700 BX80677I77700 - CPU UserBenchmarks

The Intel Core i7-7700 is a 7th Gen Kaby Lake processor featuring a 3.6 GHz base clock and 4.2 GHz turbo boost, offering strong single-core performance suitable for general desktop use. Key pros include exceptional responsiveness, 4K/HDR support, and a 65W TDP that enables easy cooling. However, cons involve a locked multiplier preventing overclocking, marginal performance gains...Read more

C
cpubenchmark.net
29/03/2026
Intel Core i7-7700 @ 3.60GHz - CPU Benchmarks

The Intel Core i7-7700 is a 7th-generation "Kaby Lake" quad-core desktop processor operating at 3.60 GHz with a 4.20 GHz boost, delivering a roughly 10,652 PassMark score. It is characterized by high single-thread performance, integrated HD Graphics 630 with 4K support, and an efficient 65W TDP ideal for smaller builds. However, the chip is constrained by a locked multiplier,...Read more

T
tekeverything.com
21/01/2017
Intel Core i7-7700 Review & Benchmarks | Tek Everything

The Tek Everything review characterizes the Intel Core i7-7700 as a highly efficient, 65W TDP processor, making it ideal for small form factor builds with a 106W total system draw under load. It delivers "snappy" performance roughly matching the stock i7-6700K, making it a strong choice for gamers and creators seeking high performance without overclocking. Technical benchmarks, such...Read more

I
igorslab.de
03/01/2017
Intel Kaby Lake: Core i7-7700K, i7-7700, i5-7600K and i5-7600 Review

The igor’sLAB review of Intel's Kaby Lake lineup highlights the generation as an optimized 14nm+ process offering 300–400 MHz higher clock speeds over Skylake, with pros including excellent out-of-the-box performance, superb overclocking potential up to 5.0 GHz, and the beneficial AVX Offset Ratio. Conversely, significant cons include zero Instructions Per Cycle (IPC) improvements...Read more

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T
tomshardware.com
03/01/2017
Intel Core i7-7700: Power Consumption and Temperatures [Tom's Hardware]

The Tom's Hardware review characterizes Intel’s Kaby Lake (Core i7-7700K/i5-7600K) as a 14nm+ optimization of Skylake, featuring higher base/boost clocks (up to 4.5 GHz) and strong overclocking potential, frequently reaching 5.0 GHz. Key advantages include improved media engines for 4K streaming and Z270 chipset features like Intel Optane support. However, the chips lack IPC...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tomshardware.fr
03/01/2017
Intel Kaby Lake: Testing the Core i7-7700K, 7700, i5-7600K, and 7600

Intel's 7th-generation Kaby Lake processors (i7-7700K/7700, i5-7600K/7600) offer refined 14nm+ architecture with higher clock speeds and improved overclocking, rather than a major architectural leap over Skylake. Key advantages include Intel Optane memory support, improved integrated graphics (HD 630) for 4K streaming, and strong single-threaded performance suitable for gaming....Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tomshw.it
02/01/2017
Intel Core i7-7700: Power Consumption and Temperatures - Tom's Hardware

The Tom’s Hardware review of Intel's Kaby Lake Core i7-7700K and i5-7600K highlights high stock frequencies and strong overclocking potential, with the i5-7600K notably reaching 5.1 GHz at 1.4V. While the i7-7700K delivers excellent performance for gaming and content creation, the lineup features minimal IPC gains over Skylake, relying almost entirely on speed increases. Significant...Read more

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T
tweakers.net
28/06/2019
Intel Core i7-7700 - Reviews - Tweakers

The Intel Core i7-7700 is recognized as an efficient Kaby Lake quad-core processor, praised for low power consumption (65W TDP) and easy cooling, making it suitable for compact builds. It offers strong, reliable performance for gaming and multitasking at 3.6 GHz base, boosting to 4.2 GHz. However, the locked multiplier restricts overclocking, and it lacks significant performance...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
03/01/2017
Kaby Lake Desktop Review: The Small Step from 6700K to 7700K

The Tweakers.net review positions the Core i7-7700K (Kaby Lake) as an iterative update to the i7-6700K (Skylake), utilizing an refined 14nm+ process to deliver higher clock speeds (4.2GHz base/4.5GHz boost). While IPC performance remains nearly identical, the 7700K offers superior out-of-the-box performance and updated multimedia capabilities. Key advantages include improved 4K...Read more

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H
hardware.info
03/01/2017
Intel Core i7 7700K / i5 7600K 'Kaby Lake' processors review: the move to 14nm+

The Hardware.info review characterizes Intel's 7th Gen "Kaby Lake" processors (i7-7700K/i5-7600K) as a refined "refresh" of the Skylake architecture rather than a major leap, using a 14nm+ process to deliver higher out-of-the-box clock speeds. Key improvements include base/boost clocks up to 4.5 GHz and a specialized media engine with robust hardware acceleration for 4K video,...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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