OVERALL
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
ALTERNATIVES

Intel Core i7 9700KF Review | 78 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£180
  • Avg. price in US: ~$170
  • PassMark benchmark result: 14256
  • N. of physical cores: 8
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.9 GHz

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

5.4

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%

4.9

Technical Score

10.0%

9.4

User score

Good
4.9

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%

4.6

Performance

18.0%

5.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.7

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

4.2

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.0

Platform

1.0%

2.8

Integrated Graphics

Poor
9.4

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%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(2483)
amazon
5.0
(2)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 4.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.0

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    4.8

    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

  • 3.3
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    3.6

    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

  • intel-core-i7-9700kf
  • intel-core-i7-9700kf
  • intel-core-i7-9700kf
  • intel-core-i7-9700kf
intel-core-i7-9700kf
intel-core-i7-9700kf
intel-core-i7-9700kf
intel-core-i7-9700kf

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The Intel Core i7-9700KF is a high-performance 9th Generation Coffee Lake desktop processor featuring 8 physical cores and 8 threads with a base clock speed of 3.60 GHz and a maximum turbo frequency of 4.90 GHz. Built on a 14nm process, it includes 12 MB of Intel Smart Cache, supports up to 128 GB of DDR4-2666 memory, and operates with a 95W TDP on the LGA1151 socket. Main pros include its unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking, high single-core performance ideal for gaming, and slightly better thermal efficiency compared to the standard 'K' variant. However, key cons are the lack of integrated graphics, which requires a dedicated GPU, and the absence of Hyper-Threading, which can limit performance in highly parallelized professional workloads compared to other i7 or i9 models.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 9700KF

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%

4.6

Performance

18.0%

5.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.7

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

4.2

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.0

Platform

1.0%

2.8

Integrated Graphics

4.9
Intel Core i7 9700KF has a technical score of 4.9 points, which is lower than that of 56% 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%

9.2

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(2483)
amazon
5.0
(2)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.4
Intel Core i7 9700KF has a user score of 9.44 points, which is higher than that of 94.1% 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 9700KF 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%

5.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.6

Price

6.6
Intel Core i7 9700KF has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.6 points, which is higher than 57.6% 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 300 Series
Intel Core i7 9700KF supports Intel 300 Series chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 54.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.7% 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 9700KF uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
Show more
N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

8
Intel Core i7 9700KF has 8 CPU cores, which is more than 63.4% of processors and equal to 13.6% 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 9700KF 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

1
Intel Core i7 9700KF offers 1 threads per core, which is fewer than 69.7% of processors and equal to 30.3% 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

4.9 GHz
Intel Core i7 9700KF reaches a boost clock of 4.9 GHz which is higher than that of 75.6% of processors and equal to that of 4.6% 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

8 x 3.6 GHz
Intel Core i7 9700KF has a base clock of 8x3.6 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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

12 MB
Intel Core i7 9700KF has an L3 cache of 12 MB which is larger than that of 54.4% of processors and equal to that of 9% 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

2 MB
Intel Core i7 9700KF has an L2 cache of 2 MB which is smaller than that of 51.3% of processors and equal to that of 11.1% 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

512 KB
Intel Core i7 9700KF has an L1 cache of 512 KB which is larger than that of 63.6% of processors and equal to that of 9.5% 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

DDR4
Intel Core i7 9700KF supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% 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

2,666 MHz
Intel Core i7 9700KF supports memory speeds up to 2,666 MHz, which is lower than that of 55% of processors and equal to 8.1% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR4-2666 MHz
Intel Core i7 9700KF supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2,666 MHz, which is lower than that of 55.3% of processors and equal to 7.4% 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

3,600 MHz
Intel Core i7 9700KF supports XMP/EXPO memory speeds up to 3,600 MHz, which is higher than that of 92.4% of processors and equal to 0.4% of processors.
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

128 GB
Intel Core i7 9700KF supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 61.9% of processors and equal to 21.4% 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

no
Intel Core i7 9700KF does not include integrated graphics. 87.6% 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

N/A
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

N/A
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

N/A
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

N/A
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

95 W
Intel Core i7 9700KF has a TDP of 95 W which is higher than that of 88.7% of processors and equal to that of 1.8% 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

95 W
Intel Core i7 9700KF has a base power of 95 W which is higher than that of 88.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.8% 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

28 seconds
Intel Core i7 9700KF has a turbo duration of 28 seconds which is longer than that of 3.8% of processors and equal to that of 85% 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 9700KF does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% support configurable TDP.
Show more

Intel Core i7 9700KF vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 14% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.8 vs 6
  • 47.8% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (7,084 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (7,084 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.7,084 vs 4,793
  • 31.4% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF 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
  • 15.1% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,857 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 9700KF has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,857 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,857 vs 2,483
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i7 9700KF uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1151 vs FP2).
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 14% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 47.8% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (7,084 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 15.1% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,857 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 31.4% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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.
  • 14.9% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,690 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 35.4% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (14,256 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 1 wider front-end design
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher front-end width than the average processor (5 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
  • 50% larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Coffee Lake Refresh vs Kaby Lake).
  • 33.3% larger L1 cache
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.

Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 9700KF does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • 32.1% slower Blender rendering
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (225.2 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • No multithreading support
    Intel Core i7 9700KF does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
  • 1 fewer threads per core
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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.
  • No integrated graphics
    Intel Core i7 9700KF does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
  • 2.11x higher base power
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 2.11x higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher TDP than the average processor (95 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 32.1% slower Blender rendering
    Intel Core i7 9700KF has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (225.2 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 9700KF has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (225.2 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.225.2 vs 331.88
  • 2.11x higher base power
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF does not support multithreading, the average processor does.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 2.11x higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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 9700KF 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
Total
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 9700KF and other processors

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
2483 Reviews
amazon
5.0
2 Reviews
amazon
5.0
1 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 9700KF?

  • Excellent single-core performance, ideal for high-refresh gaming and AAA titles.
  • Highly overclockable thanks to an unlocked multiplier and soldered heat spreader.
  • Efficient eight-core architecture that handles demanding 3D graphics well.
  • Noticeably better value for gamers compared to the more expensive Core i9-9900K.
  • Maintains lower temperatures than some higher-end 9th Gen chips under standard loads.
  • Significant performance upgrade for users coming from older 4th or 6th Gen i5/i7 processors.

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 9700KF?

  • Lacks Hyper-Threading (8 cores, 8 threads), which limits performance in multi-threaded tasks like video editing or streaming.
  • Does not include integrated graphics (requires a dedicated GPU), indicated by the 'F' suffix.
  • Does not come with a cooling fan or heatsink in the box; requires a high-end aftermarket cooler.
  • Relies on the older PCIe Gen 3 interface rather than the newer PCIe 4.0 standard.
  • Can run very hot when pushed with high overclocks, often requiring liquid cooling solutions.
  • Lags behind contemporary AMD Ryzen competitors in heavy multi-tasking and professional content creation workloads.

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
Updated Daily
Intel Core i7-9700KF @ 3.60GHz - CPU Benchmarks

The Intel Core i7-9700KF is an 8-core, 8-thread, 9th-generation desktop processor with a 3.6 GHz base and 4.9 GHz boost clock, designed for high-performance computing without integrated graphics. It features an unlocked multiplier for overclocking and delivers robust single-core performance, making it highly suitable for gaming and demanding applications. While it lacks...Read more

B
browser.geekbench.com
Updated Daily
Intel Core i7-9700KF Benchmarks - Geekbench Browser

The Geekbench Browser page for the Intel Core i7-9700KF displays aggregated, user-submitted benchmark data, acting as a raw performance database rather than an editorial review. It features 8 cores and 8 threads with a 3.6 GHz base clock, capable of boosting up to 4.9 GHz, and features an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. While offering strong single-core performance suitable...Read more

C
cpu.userbenchmark.com
01/03/2021
Intel Core i7-9700KF BX80684I79700KF - UserBenchmark

The Intel Core i7-9700KF is an 8-core, 8-thread "unlocked" Coffee Lake Refresh processor with a 3.6 GHz base clock and 4.9 GHz turbo, lacking hyperthreading and integrated graphics. It is ideal for gaming and single-core tasks, offering high, consistent frame rates in AAA titles while employing Solder Thermal Interface Material (STIM) for improved thermal performance. While the 95W...Read more

F
forums.passmark.com
19/06/2020
Intel I7 9700KF: performance - PassMark Support Forums

A PassMark forum user initially reported a low 7,482 PassMark Rating for an overclocked Intel i7-9700KF (4.9GHz) on an Asus Z390-F motherboard, creating confusion between system ratings and CPU scores. A forum administrator clarified the actual performance was 14,540 CPUMark points, aligning with the expected average for the chip. The CPU demonstrated strong performance, with a...Read more

C
chip.de
16/10/2019
Intel Core i7-9700KF Review

The Intel Core i7-9700KF is an 8-core/8-thread, 9th-generation "Coffee Lake Refresh" desktop processor designed for high-performance gaming and general use. It operates at a base clock of 3.6 GHz with a 4.9 GHz boost, lacking integrated graphics to offer a more budget-friendly option for users with dedicated graphics cards. Pros include excellent single-core performance suitable for...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
26/11/2018
Intel Core i7-9700K Review: An 8-core CPU with plenty of punch

According to the Les Numériques review, the Intel Core i7-9700K is a high-performance 8-core processor that excels in gaming and single-core tasks. It features a 14nm++ architecture, hits up to 4.9 GHz, and utilizes a soldered heat spreader (IHS) for improved thermal performance. However, the removal of Hyper-Threading means it is limited to 8 threads, which can hamper performance...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
gamesource.it
18/03/2019
Intel Core i7-9700K - Review - GameSource

The GameSource review of the Intel Core i7-9700K highlights the 14nm++ CPU's move to a full 8-core architecture with soldered thermal interface material (STIM) for improved heat transfer and overclocking. Pros include exceptional single-core performance for high-frame-rate gaming, excellent boost clocks up to 4.9 GHz, and compatibility with existing Z370 motherboards. Conversely,...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hwupgrade.it
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS: massive power held back by TDP

The HWUpgrade review characterises the Intel Core i9-9900KS as a "show of force," acting as a highly-binned 14nm++ processor designed to guarantee a 5.0 GHz all-core turbo frequency right out of the box. While superior silicon quality allows for lower relative voltages compared to manual overclocks, the chip's TDP increases to 127W, resulting in significant heat production that...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hardware
20/03/2019
Retail Intel i7-9700KF spotted in the wild

HardWare.fr has transitioned into a retail-focused platform, with its legacy site no longer publishing original editorial content. Alternatives like Pause Hardware provide current technical reviews, highlighting products such as the Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and the Thermaltake View 600 TG. The Core Ultra 7 270K Plus excels in versatility for gaming and productivity, though it...Read more

(Translated)Show original

Video reviews

Best alternatives

amd-ryzen-5-9600x
AMD Ryzen 5 9600X

Processors

7.5
amd-ryzen-7-8700f
AMD Ryzen 7 8700F

Processors

7.2
amd-ryzen-5-9600
AMD Ryzen 5 9600

Processors

7.4
intel-core-i5-13600k
Intel Core i5 13600K

Processors

7.6
intel-core-ultra-7-265kf
Intel Core Ultra 7 265KF

Processors

8.3
intel-core-ultra-5-245kf
Intel Core Ultra 5 245KF

Processors

7.6
amd-ryzen-7-7700
AMD Ryzen 7 7700

Processors

7.9
intel-core-i5-12600k
Intel Core i5 12600K

Processors

7.1
intel-core-ultra-5-235
Intel Core Ultra 5 235

Processors

7.5
No image
AMD Ryzen 7 Pro 7745

Processors

7.1
amd-ryzen-7-5800xt
AMD Ryzen 7 5800XT

Processors

6.6
intel-core-i5-14600k
Intel Core i5 14600K

Processors

7.6

Compare Intel Core i7 9700KF with other processors

VS
VS

Compare