Name: Intel Core i7 8670
Brand: Intel

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 8670

Overall score

6.5

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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

8.4

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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: 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

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

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

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

Performance

6.9

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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: MEDIUM

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

Cache & Architecture

5.1

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Semiconductor size

What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.

When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

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

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: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

Memory & PCIe

5.6

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DDR memory version

What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.

When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

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

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

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

Integrated Graphics

7.6

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Integrated graphics

What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.

When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

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

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

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/encode), VP8 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode)

Power & Thermal

6.0

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TDP (Thermal design power)

What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.

When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

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

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

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 8670 vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i7 8670 better than the average processor?

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Includes stock cooler
Intel Core i7 8670 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 8670 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i7 8670 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 8670 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
4 more CPU threads
Intel Core i7 8670 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 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+
Intel Core i7 8670 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.12 vs 8
Modern CPU socket
Intel Core i7 8670 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 8670 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 8670 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 8670 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
50% larger L3 cache
Intel Core i7 8670 has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
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
Intel Core i7 8670 has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.12 MB vs 8 MB
Modern CPU socket
Intel Core i7 8670 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1,151 vs FP2).
4 more CPU threads
Intel Core i7 8670 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
50% larger L3 cache
Intel Core i7 8670 has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
16.7% more L3 per core
Intel Core i7 8670 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 8670 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
Includes stock cooler
Intel Core i7 8670 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.

Why is Intel Core i7 8670 worse than the average processor?

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Narrower instruction support
Intel Core i7 8670 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
28.6% lower single-core score
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,050 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
50% lower bus transfer rate
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
50% lower bus speed
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower bus speed than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
16.7% larger process node
Intel Core i7 8670 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 8670 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.
40% smaller L2 cache
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
9.1% lower memory speed
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,666 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
44.4% higher base power
Intel Core i7 8670 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 8670 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
56.3% higher boost power
Intel Core i7 8670 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (100 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
44.4% higher TDP
Intel Core i7 8670 has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
28.6% lower single-core score
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,050 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >2000
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,050 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.1,050 vs 1,471
16.7% larger process node
Intel Core i7 8670 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 8670 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 8670 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 8670 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 8670 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 8670 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
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i7 8670 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 8670 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
56.3% higher boost power
Intel Core i7 8670 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (100 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
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
Intel Core i7 8670 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (100 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.100 W vs 64 W
50% lower bus transfer rate
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
What it is: The maximum data transfer rate supported by the processor's platform bus, usually shown in GT/s.
When it matters: When you are comparing older platform bandwidth limits rather than just raw CPU core performance.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=8 GT/s
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s
50% lower bus speed
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower bus speed than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
What it is: The base platform clock used by older processor designs to derive other operating speeds.
When it matters: When you are comparing older CPU platforms where bus design still affects how clocks and compatibility are set up.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=8 GT/s
Intel Core i7 8670 has a lower bus speed than the average processor (4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.4 GT/s vs 8 GT/s

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i7 8670?

High thread count (12 threads) provides strong multitasking capabilities and smoother performance in heavy applications.
Excellent for gaming on older titles or competitive games like Valorant, maintaining high frame rates when paired with a dedicated GPU.
Significant improvement over previous 7th-gen processors due to the jump from 4 to 6 physical cores.
Integrated UHD Graphics 630 is sufficient for daily office tasks and very light gaming without a dedicated card.
Supports DDR4 memory up to 2666 MHz, offering better bandwidth and system responsiveness compared to older DDR3 systems.
Good value for users upgrading from older 1151-socket builds who need modern OS compatibility (like Windows 11).

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 8670?

The 3.1 GHz base clock speed is relatively low compared to other i7 models like the 8700 or 8700K.
Integrated graphics are considered poor for any modern AAA gaming or intensive creative work.
As an older 8th-gen architecture, it lacks support for the latest high-speed DDR5 memory.
Can run hot under intensive loads, requiring a decent aftermarket cooling solution rather than a basic stock cooler.
Lack of an unlocked multiplier means it cannot be easily overclocked for extra performance gains.
Performance is noticeably lower than newer 12th or 13th-gen i5 processors which often offer better value today.

Expert reviews

modding.fr

08/03/2018

Is an Intel Core i7-8670 on the way?", "Intel Core i7-8670 incoming?

According to Modding.fr, a leaked GFXBench benchmark revealed a "curious" Intel Core i7-8670, a 6-core/12-thread processor with an unusual naming convention for the 8th-generation Coffee Lake lineup. While traditionally "86xx" models were Core i5, this chip aligns with i7 specs. The processor features 6 cores, 12 threads, and Intel UHD 630 Graphics (350/1200 MHz), offering similar...Read more

Intel Core i7 8670 Review | 78 Data compared

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Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 8670

Intel Core i7 8670 vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i7 8670 better than the average processor?

Why is Intel Core i7 8670 worse than the average processor?

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 8670 and other processors

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i7 8670?

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 8670?

Expert reviews

Best alternatives

Compare Intel Core i7 8670 with other processors