The debate between the Intel i7 8700K and i7 9700K processors has been raging on for quite some time now. Both have their strengths and weaknesses, and it ultimately comes down to what you are using your PC for. In this article, we will compare the two processors and help you decide which one is better for you.
Performance
When it comes to performance, there is no clear winner between the two. The i7 9700K has a slightly higher clock speed at 3.6 GHz, compared to the i7 8700K's 3.7 GHz. However, the i7 8700K has six cores and twelve threads, compared to the i7 9700K's eight cores and eight threads. The i7 9700K's higher core count gives it an edge in multi-threaded applications, while the i7 8700K performs better in single-threaded applications. Both processors perform excellently in gaming, with the i7 8700K having a slight edge in older games, while the i7 9700K performing better in newer games with better multi-threading support.
Overclocking
Both processors are excellent for overclocking, with the i7 8700K being slightly more overclockable due to its lower power consumption. The i7 8700K has a TDP of 95W, compared to the i7 9700K's TDP of 115W. However, if you are using a high-end cooling solution such as water cooling, both processors can be overclocked to their maximum potential, making overclocking performance a tie between the two.
Price
One of the major differences between the i7 8700K and the i7 9700K is their price. At the time of writing, the i7 8700K is priced at around $379, while the i7 9700K is priced at around $409. This price difference may not seem like much, but for budget-conscious users, it can be a deciding factor.
Overall, both the Intel i7 8700K and i7 9700K are excellent processors, and choosing between the two ultimately depends on your needs. If you are using your PC for gaming and single-threaded applications, the i7 8700K is a better choice due to its lower price and better performance in these areas. However, if you are running multi-threaded applications, the i7 9700K's higher core count and better multi-threading support make it the better choice. Regardless of which processor you choose, both will provide excellent performance for years to come.
