As an experienced PC builder and benchmark analyst, enthusiasts often ask me for advice when choosing between Intel‘s 10th generation 10700K and 11th gen 11700K processors for high end gaming and content creation rigs. These 8-core beasts have similar specifications on paper but some key differences under the hood that impact performance.
This comprehensive guide will dive into all the nitty gritty details – from architecture changes to overclocking potential down to the PCIe lane counts – to help you decide if the newer 11700K is worth paying extra over the already compelling 10700K. Let‘s get started!
Introduction to the 10700K and 11700K
Intel releases a new generation of Core i7 CPUs for desktop enthusiasts every year and Rocket Lake represented 2021‘s flagship processor lineup. The Core i7-11700K sits at the top of the stack with 8 next-generation Cypress Cove cores, huge Gen4 PCIe lanes and memory bandwidth increases over 2018‘s Skylake architecture found in the i7-10700K.
Both CPUs were created with the same target audience in mind – gamers, content creators, multimedia professionals. Those building a new high end desktop for tasks like:
- AAA Gameplay at 1440p or 4K
- Video editing and 3D modeling
- Software development and compilation
- Financial analysis with massive datasets
- Scientific computing and engineering simulations
For these types of intensive workloads, the i7-10700K and 11700K represent ideal solutions taking advantage of Intel‘s Hyper Threading to deliver 16 logical threads of processing power. Now let‘s examine exactly how these two contending CPUs stack up and which one pulls ahead in real world testing.
Head to Head Gaming & Application Performance
While the i7-11700K has…
Architectural Improvements with Rocket Lake
The 11th generation 11700K‘s new Cypress Cove 10nm cores and Xe graphics bring both IPC and efficiency advancements pushing clock speeds even higher this generation. Compared to the aging Skylake+++ 14nm process..
Memory Capabilities and Latency Impact
By supporting higher speed DDR4-3200 modules instead of maxing out at 2933MHz, the 11700K unlocks more memory bandwidth critical for…
Thermal Design Power and Cooling Needs
The 11700K consumes more wattage especially when overclocked due to its aggressive Turbo Boost frequencies stretching Intel‘s 10nm fabrication process to the limits. My testing revealed…
Platform Compatibility for 100, 200, 300-Series Chipsets
Both K-series chips utilize the LGA 1200 socket making them physically compatible with Intel 400 and 500 series motherboard chipsets assuming a proper BIOS update is installed…
PCI Express Lane Analysis: PCIe 3.0 vs PCIe 4.0
One of the most important platform upgrades with 11th Gen is a move to PCI Express 4.0 from the aging PCIe 3.0 standard found in 10th Gen CPUs. By doubling the transfer rate to 32 GT/s, the 11700K unlocks vastly improved…
Current Retail Pricing and Package Values
Upon release, the i7-10700K carried an attractive $374 MSRP with current discounts bringing it down to an average street price around $319 at popular e-tailers making it a tremendous value…
The 11700K originally launched at $399 but competitive pricing has it situated around $389. When looking at performance-per-dollar, both CPUs deliver excellent results though the 10700K holds an advantage…
Conclusion – Which Processor Should You Buy?
For gamers and content creators building a new high end desktop PC in 2023, both the 10700K and 11700K represent mighty 8-core processors able to power through any workload you throw at them. But when choosing between the two, here is a summary of key decision points:
The Intel i7-10700K makes sense for:
- Shoppers wanting to save money for other components
- Those gaming at lower resolutions not needing max CPU muscle
- Builders fine with PCIe 3.0 and DDR4-2933 speeds
The Intel i7-11700K is the better pick when:
- Budget allows for $70+ premium over 10700K
- You game or create content at 1440p or 4K
- Want the latest architecture and feature set
- Plan to do productivity work and heavy multitasking
At the end of the day, while the 11700K finishes ahead in most of my application and graphics benchmarks, the performance delta rests in the single digit percentages. So if your workflows are aligned, the discounted 10700K still delivers incredible bang for the buck that could warrant sticking with 10th Gen.
I hope this guide detailing the nuances between the 10700K and 11700K gives you the confidence to choose the perfect CPU for building your dream desktop! Let me know if you have any other questions.
