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Intel Core i7 9700K Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£300
Avg. price in US: ~$190
PassMark benchmark result: 14401
N. of physical cores: 8
CPU boost clock speed: 4.9 GHz

Intel Core i7 9700K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.2

Good

4.7

Poor

9.7

Exceptional

4.9
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
5.0
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
4.9
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
7.3
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
2.7
L3 cache
8.0%
3.5
N. of physical cores
3.0
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
3.0
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
3.5
N. of physical cores
20.0%
2.8
CPU threads
15.0%
2.7
L3 cache

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Verdict

The Intel Core i7-9700K is a 9th Generation 'Coffee Lake Refresh' desktop processor featuring 8 physical cores and 8 threads with a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz and a maximum turbo boost of 4.9 GHz. Built on a 14nm process with a 95W TDP, it includes 12MB of Intel Smart Cache, an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, and integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630. Main pros include exceptional single-core performance that makes it a top-tier choice for high-frame-rate gaming and the inclusion of Solder Thermal Interface Material (STIM) for improved heat dissipation. However, its primary cons are the lack of Hyper-Threading support, which can limit performance in highly multi-threaded professional applications compared to its predecessors or competitors, and the fact that it does not come with a bundled thermal cooling solution.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 9700K

Overall score

5.2

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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

8.0

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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

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Performance

4.2

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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

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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: 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

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Memory & PCIe

5.9

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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

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Maximum memory capacity

What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.

When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

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Integrated Graphics

7.0

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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

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Power & Thermal

4.5

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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

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Tau (power duration limit)

What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.

When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

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Configurable TDP

What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.

When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

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Intel Core i7 9700K vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i7 9700K better than the average processor?

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Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i7 9700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.
Importance: MEDIUM
Intel Core i7 9700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
14% higher boost clock
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >4.7 GHz
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.4.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i7 9700K 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 9700K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
2x more memory capacity
Intel Core i7 9700K has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
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
Intel Core i7 9700K has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.128 GB vs 64 GB
2 more CPU cores
Intel Core i7 9700K has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 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 9700K has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.8 vs 6
15.1% better single-core performance
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,859 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >3200
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,859 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,859 vs 2,483
31.4% better multi-core performance
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (3,656 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 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 9700K has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (3,656 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.3,656 vs 2,783
10x more popular
Intel Core i7 9700K 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 9700K is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1,000).10 vs 1
Modern CPU socket
Intel Core i7 9700K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1151 vs FP2).
Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i7 9700K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
14% higher boost clock
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
2 more CPU cores
Intel Core i7 9700K has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
15.1% better single-core performance
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,859 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
31.4% better multi-core performance
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (3,656 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
15.6% higher single-core score
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,700 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
36.7% higher PassMark score
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (14,401 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
50% larger L3 cache
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
More advanced microarchitecture
Intel Core i7 9700K uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Coffee Lake Refresh vs Kaby Lake).
33.3% larger L1 cache
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (512 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i7 9700K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
2x more memory capacity
Intel Core i7 9700K has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.

Cache & Architecture

Why is Intel Core i7 9700K worse than the average processor?

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No crypto acceleration
Intel Core i7 9700K does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
2 year/s older release date
Intel Core i7 9700K has an older release date than the average processor (2018 vs 2020).
October 2,018
32.3% slower Blender rendering
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (224.8 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
No multithreading support
Intel Core i7 9700K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
1 fewer threads per core
Intel Core i7 9700K has fewer threads per core than the average processor (1 vs 2). The average processor offers 2 threads per core.
16.7% larger process node
Intel Core i7 9700K 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 9700K 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.
12.5% less L3 per core
Intel Core i7 9700K has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
20% smaller L2 cache
Intel Core i7 9700K has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (2 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
9.2% lower memory bandwidth
Intel Core i7 9700K has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (41.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
9.1% lower memory speed
Intel Core i7 9700K 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.
2.11x higher base power
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i7 9700K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
2.11x higher TDP
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher TDP than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
32.3% slower Blender rendering
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (224.8 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
What it is: A Blender render result based on the BMW27 scene, used to show how quickly the processor can finish a heavy 3D rendering task.
When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >290
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (224.8 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.224.8 vs 331.88
2.11x higher base power
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <30 W
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.95 W vs 45 W
No multithreading support
Intel Core i7 9700K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
What it is: Lets each physical core run more than one thread at the same time, such as with Hyper-Threading or SMT.
When it matters: When multitasking, rendering, compiling, virtualization, or other thread-heavy work benefits from more total processing threads.
Importance: HIGH
Intel Core i7 9700K does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
16.7% larger process node
Intel Core i7 9700K 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 9700K 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 9700K 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 9700K 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 9700K 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 9700K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
2.11x higher TDP
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher TDP than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
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
Intel Core i7 9700K has a higher TDP than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.95 W vs 45 W
12.5% less L3 per core
Intel Core i7 9700K has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 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 9700K has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.1.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core

Cache & Architecture

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 9700K and other processors

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 9700K?

Excellent single-core performance, making it a top-tier choice for gaming
Strong overclocking potential, with many users easily reaching stable 5.0GHz to 5.2GHz speeds
High frame rates in AAA games and 1080p high-refresh gaming
Runs relatively cool for its class when paired with a good aftermarket cooler
Solid multitasking capabilities despite the lack of hyper-threading
Uses a soldered thermal interface (STIM), which improves heat transfer over previous generations

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 9700K?

Lacks Hyper-Threading support, which can limit performance in highly multi-threaded creative workloads like video editing
Does not include a stock heatsink or cooling fan in the box
Expensive compared to competitors from AMD (like the Ryzen 7 series) that offer more threads
Limited upgrade path as it uses the older LGA 1151 socket and lacks PCIe 4.0 support
Higher power consumption compared to some modern alternatives

Expert reviews

techpowerup.com

10/09/2018

First Intel Core i7-9700K Review Surfaces Would you like to see performance benchmarks comparing this specific model to the newer 10th or 11th generat...

The leaked review of the Intel Core i7-9700K showcases a 14nm++ "Coffee Lake Refresh" processor featuring 8 cores and 8 threads, marking a shift away from Hyper-Threading for the i7 series. It boasts high clock speeds, with a 4.9 GHz single-core boost, designed to lead in gaming performance within the $350–$400 range. A key advantage is the switch to soldered thermal interface...Read more

wccftech.com

10/09/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K Review Published – 8 Core CPU Performance Detailed

The Wccftech review of the Intel Core i7-9700K highlights its capability as a premier gaming CPU, featuring eight physical cores that dominate performance benchmarks in titles like Far Cry 5 and Total War: Warhammer 2. A significant advantage is its superior single-core performance, which provides high-refresh-rate gaming, alongside the introduction of Solder Thermal Interface...Read more

rockpapershotgun.com

04/07/2019

Intel Core i7-9700K review: The best gaming CPU that doesn't cost a fortune

The Rock Paper Shotgun review identifies the Intel Core i7-9700K as a top-tier gaming CPU that acts as a more sensible alternative to the i9-9900K. While it moves to eight physical cores, the chip removes Hyper-Threading, a move that boosts gaming performance through higher 4.9GHz clock speeds despite having fewer threads than its predecessor. Ultimately, the review finds the 9700K...Read more

gamersnexus.net

27/12/2018

Intel i7-9700K Review vs. 8700K, 9900K, 2700, and More

GamersNexus describes the Intel i7-9700K as a "lateral move" that, despite offering an 8-core design with improved thermal performance due to STIM, provides a complicated value proposition compared to the 8700K. A significant advantage is the 9700K's improved gaming performance, yielding a roughly 12% uplift in certain titles, such as Assassin's Creed: Origins, over its predecessor....Read more

techradar.com

18/11/2019

Intel Core i7-9700K review - TechRadar

The Intel Core i7-9700K is an "almost-flagship" processor featuring eight physical cores and high 4.9GHz boost speeds, though it notably removes hyper-threading. The CPU excels in gaming and general computing, with pros including exceptional single-core performance and improved thermals due to a soldered integrated heat spreader. However, cons center on its inferior performance in...Read more

pcmag.com

14/02/2020

Intel Core i7-9700K Review - PCMag

The Intel Core i7-9700K is a 9th-generation "Coffee Lake" processor featuring eight cores and a 4.9GHz boost clock, designed for high-end gaming. By removing Hyper-Threading, it sacrifices multithreaded performance for superior single-core speed. While a "gaming powerhouse," it lacks PCIe 4.0 and often trails competitors in content creation tasks, making it ideal for gamers, though...Read more

pcgamer.com

23/10/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K review | PC Gamer

The PC Gamer review highlights the Intel Core i7-9700K as a strong 8-core gaming CPU, compensating for the lack of Hyper-Threading with high 4.9GHz turbo clock speeds. It offers performance nearly equal to the more expensive i9-9900K in games while maintaining better temperatures and, significantly, it features a soldered heat spreader (STIM) for improved thermal performance. Key...Read more

bit-tech.net

19/11/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K Review | bit-tech.net

The Intel Core i7-9700K shifts to an 8-core/8-thread design, dropping Hyper-Threading to excel in single-threaded tasks and gaming, though it offers limited multi-threaded gains over the 6-core/12-thread i7-8700K. Achieving a stable 5.1GHz overclock, it shows strong performance in gaming and video encoding, often competing closely with the i9-9900K. While praised for its single-core...Read more

tomshardware.com

06/11/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K 9th Gen CPU Review: Eight Physical Cores, No Hyper-Threading - Tom's Hardware

The Intel Core i7-9700K represents a significant shift as the first i7 featuring eight physical cores without Hyper-Threading, utilizing Solder-based Thermal Interface Material (STIM) to achieve high 4.9 GHz boost frequencies and stable 5.1 GHz overclocks. Performance testing highlights it as an excellent gaming-focused chip, often matching the more expensive i9-9900K in frame rates...Read more

techpowerup.com

26/10/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K Review - Value & Conclusion - TechPowerUp

The TechPowerUp review of the Intel Core i7-9700K highlights a shift to an 8-core/8-thread configuration utilizing soldered thermal interface material (STIM) to manage heat effectively. As a Coffee Lake Refresh processor with 3.6 GHz base and 4.9 GHz boost clocks, it offers a $385 MSRP target at high-performance gaming. The CPU delivers excellent gaming results, frequently matching...Read more

techspot.com

19/10/2018

Intel Core i9-9900K and Core i7-9700K Review - TechSpot

The TechSpot review of the 9th-gen Intel Core i9-9900K and i7-9700K highlights superior single-threaded performance and 1080p gaming dominance as key pros, though the i7-9700K lacks Hyper-Threading. While the i9-9900K excels in productivity with 8 cores/16 threads, high power consumption and extreme operating temperatures (often hitting 100°C) are major drawbacks, requiring premium...Read more

guru3d.com

19/10/2018

Intel Core i7 9700K processor review - Guru 3d

The Guru3D review of the Intel Core i7-9700K highlights an eight-core, 14nm Coffee Lake Refresh CPU that drops Hyper-Threading to deliver high, 4.9 GHz single-core speeds and strong 4.6 GHz all-core performance. While the lack of virtual threads impacts heavily-threaded workloads compared to the 9900K, the processor excels in gaming and offers significant overclocking headroom...Read more

hardwareluxx.de

09/04/2019

Core i7-9700K vs. Core i9-9980XE Review - Hardwareluxx

This Hardwareluxx review compares the mainstream Intel Core i7-9700K against the HEDT Core i9-9980XE, highlighting a stark contrast between high clock speeds and massive core counts. The 8-core i7-9700K, boasting up to 4.9 GHz boost, excels in gaming and general desktop tasks while operating at 95W. In contrast, the 18-core i9-9980XE, with lower 4.4 GHz boost clocks, dominates in...Read more

computerbase.de

19/10/2018

Intel Core i9-9900K & i7-9700K Review

The ComputerBase review of the Intel Core i9-9900K and i7-9700K highlights these as the first 8-core consumer CPUs for the LGA 1151 socket, delivering top-tier gaming and workstation performance. The i9-9900K, with 16 threads and a 5.0 GHz boost, outperforms competing 8-core chips in heavily threaded tasks, while the i7-9700K offers nearly identical 1080p gaming performance despite...Read more

tomshardware.fr

19/10/2018

Core i9-9900K, i7-9700K, and i5-9600K Review: Intel Strikes Back at Ryzen

According to Tom’s Hardware FR, the 9th Gen "Coffee Lake Refresh" CPUs, led by the i9-9900K, aim to reclaim desktop performance leadership from AMD with higher clock speeds (up to 5.0 GHz) and soldered heat spreaders for better cooling. While the i9-9900K is touted as the fastest gaming CPU with 8 cores/16 threads, the i7-9700K and i5-9600K offer similar, high-performance gaming...Read more

lesnumeriques.com

26/11/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K Review: An 8-core CPU with plenty to offer

The Intel Core i7-9700K, reviewed by Les Numériques, is a gaming-focused processor featuring eight physical cores without Hyper-Threading. It offers exceptional single-core performance, rivaling the higher-end i9-9900K and reaching boost clocks of 4.9 GHz due to a soldered thermal interface. While the chip excels in gaming, the lack of Hyper-Threading leads to reduced performance in...Read more

cowcotland.com

14/11/2018

Intel Coffee Lake-R Processor Review: Core i5-9600K, Core i7-9700K, and Core i9-9900K

The Cowcotland review of Intel's 9th Gen Coffee Lake-R processors (i9-9900K, i7-9700K, i5-9600K) highlights a strategic move to regain performance leadership through increased core counts and the reintroduction of soldered thermal interface material (STIM) for improved heat dissipation. Key advantages include exceptional gaming performance and high overclocking potential, with the...Read more

reseaulud.com

19/10/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K Review

The Reseaulud review highlights the Intel Core i7-9700K as a high-end, 14nm Coffee Lake Refresh processor featuring eight physical cores without Hyper-Threading. Operating at a 3.6 GHz base and 4.9 GHz boost, the chip delivers strong single-core performance suitable for gaming, though improvements over the i7-8700K are modest. Key advantages include exceptional gaming frame rates,...Read more

cowcotland.com

18/10/2018

Intel Coffee Lake-R Core i7-9700K and Core i9-9900K Processor Review

The Cowcotland review highlights the Intel Core i9-9900K and i7-9700K as the first mainstream 8-core processors from Intel, utilizing a soldered thermal interface (STIM) for improved heat transfer. While the i9-9900K features 16 threads and 5.0 GHz boost speeds, the i7-9700K lacks Hyper-Threading, offering 8 cores and 8 threads. Both CPUs deliver superior gaming performance, with...Read more

elchapuzasinformatico.com

10/09/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K Review (Exclusive)

El Chapuzas Informático's 2018 review of the Intel Core i7-9700K highlighted an 8-core, 8-thread design without Hyper-Threading, operating between 3.60 GHz and 4.90 GHz. The chip demonstrated superior gaming performance, outperforming previous generations and AMD’s Ryzen 7 2700X, while achieving a stable 5.0 GHz overclock across all cores. Key pros identified included top-tier...Read more

profesionalreview.com

19/10/2018

Intel Core i7-9700K Review (Complete Analysis)

The Intel Core i7-9700K (Coffee Lake Refresh) features 8 physical cores without Hyper-Threading, operating at a 3.6 GHz base and up to 4.9 GHz Turbo Boost. It delivers excellent single-core performance, making it a top choice for high-end gaming, and utilizes soldered thermal interface material (STIM) for improved heat transfer. Pros include superb gaming frame rates, strong...Read more

geeknetic.es

12/09/2019

MSI GT76 TITAN DT 9SF Review: Full Analysis of the i7-9700K Laptop

The MSI GT76 TITAN DT 9SF, reviewed by Geeknetic, is a high-performance 17.3-inch gaming laptop featuring a desktop-class Intel Core i9-9900K processor, NVIDIA RTX 2070 graphics, and a robust RAID 0 storage system. It offers exceptional, overclockable performance that tops benchmarks like Cinebench R20 when unrestricted, alongside effective cooling that keeps key areas under 40°C...Read more

hardzone.es

22/03/2019

Intel Core i7-920 vs Core i7-9700K: How Much Has Gaming Performance Improved?

HardZone compares the 1st-gen Core i7-920 (4.0 GHz OC) with the 9th-gen Core i7-9700K using an RTX 2080 at 1080p, demonstrating a massive performance leap over a decade. The i7-9700K offers superior modern architecture, 8 physical cores, and smoother 1% low frame rates, making it ideal for modern gaming, though it lacks Hyper-Threading. While the overclocked i7-920 remains a...Read more

global.techradar.com

13/01/2020

Intel Core i7-9700K Review - TechRadar

The TechRadar review of the Intel Core i7-9700K highlights it as a powerful 8-core desktop processor that, despite dropping Hyper-Threading, delivers superior single-core performance and exceptional gaming capability through high clock speeds. Key advantages include the shift to a soldered integrated heat spreader (IHS) for better thermal management and improved overclocking,...Read more

gamesource.it

18/03/2019

Intel Core i7-9700K Review - GameSource

The GameSource review highlights the Intel Core i7-9700K as a high-performance 9th-generation processor featuring eight physical cores, offering exceptional gaming performance and a soldered integrated heat spreader (STIM) for improved thermal management. While performance benchmarks place it as a top contender for gaming, the review notes the omission of Hyper-Threading can cause...Read more

techtesters.eu

22/10/2018

Intel Core i5-9600K & i7-9700K Review

The Tech Testers review highlights the Intel Core i5-9600K as a strong 6-core/6-thread option for budget-conscious gamers, offering excellent single-core performance and significant overclocking headroom toward 5.0 GHz. However, its lack of Hyper-Threading is a noted con, limiting performance in heavily threaded, modern, or workstation-oriented applications. Conversely, the i7-9700K...Read more

tweakers.net

19/10/2018

Intel i9-9900K and i7-9700K Review - Are these the best gaming processors?

The Tweakers review highlights the Intel Core i9-9900K (8C/16T) and i7-9700K (8C/8T) as top-tier gaming processors, delivering category-leading performance particularly at 1080p, with the i9 offering a 25-33% boost in multi-threaded tasks. Despite utilizing a soldered heatspreader, both chips, especially the i9-9900K, run exceptionally hot under load—often reaching 100°C—and exhibit...Read more

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