Intel Core i7 8700 vs i9 11950H: Which CPU Reigns Supreme for Gaming?

The world of processors can be a confusing maze, especially when comparing generations and different processor lines. Today, we’re diving into the battle of the titans: the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 11950H. Both CPUs are powerhouses in their own right, but which one comes out on top? This in-depth analysis will delve into their core features, performance benchmarks, and suitability for different tasks to help you make an informed decision.

The Contenders: Intel Core i7 8700 vs. Intel Core i9 11950H

Before we dive into the specifics, let’s briefly introduce our competitors:

• Intel Core i7 8700: Released in 2017, this 6-core, 12-thread processor is a stalwart of the desktop CPU world. It boasts a base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 4.6 GHz.
• Intel Core i9 11950H: A newer player in the game, the 11950H is a mobile processor released in 2021. This 8-core, 16-thread powerhouse features a base clock speed of 2.6 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 5 GHz.

Generation Gap: Coffee Lake vs. Tiger Lake

The Intel Core i7 8700 belongs to the Coffee Lake generation, while the Intel Core i9 11950H is a member of the Tiger Lake generation. This generational gap brings significant advantages to the 11950H:

• Architecture: Tiger Lake introduces Intel’s 10nm SuperFin process, offering improved performance per watt compared to Coffee Lake’s 14nm process.
• Integrated Graphics: The 11950H features the Iris Xe graphics, a considerable upgrade over the Intel HD Graphics 630 found in the 8700.
• Memory Support: The 11950H supports faster DDR4-3200 memory, while the 8700 is limited to DDR4-2666.

Performance Showdown: Benchmarks and Real-World Usage

While the 11950H enjoys the advantage of newer technology, how does it translate to actual performance?
CPU Benchmarks:

• Cinebench R23: The 11950H consistently outperforms the 8700 in multi-core benchmarks, showcasing its superior core count and clock speeds.
• Geekbench 5: The 11950H maintains its lead in both single-core and multi-core performance, highlighting its overall efficiency.
• 7-Zip: The 11950H’s multi-threaded prowess shines here, delivering significantly faster compression and decompression speeds.

Real-World Usage:

• Gaming: The 11950H’s integrated graphics are a significant leap over the 8700, offering smoother gameplay at higher resolutions, especially for less demanding titles.
• Video Editing and Rendering: The 11950H’s extra cores and threads translate into faster rendering times in video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve.
• Productivity: Both CPUs excel in everyday tasks like web browsing, email, and light productivity applications. However, the 11950H’s faster performance is noticeable in more demanding tasks like multitasking and running multiple applications simultaneously.

Power Consumption and Thermal Performance

The 11950H’s smaller 10nm process and improved architecture contribute to a more power-efficient design. While the 8700 boasts a lower TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65W, the 11950H’s 35W TDP is significantly lower, making it ideal for mobile devices.
However, the 11950H’s smaller size can lead to higher temperatures when under heavy load. Though it utilizes Intel’s Thermal Velocity Boost technology to dynamically increase clock speeds, it can also result in throttling if cooling solutions are inadequate.

Price and Availability

The 11950H is a newer and more advanced processor, making it more expensive than the 8700. However, both CPUs are readily available through various retailers and OEMs.

Choosing the Right CPU: Your Needs Matter

The best CPU for you ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget.
Choose the Intel Core i7 8700 if:

• You prioritize affordability. The 8700 offers excellent performance at a lower price point.
• You need a powerful desktop CPU. The 8700 is a solid choice for gamers, content creators, and users who demand high-performance computing.
• You have a powerful cooling solution. The 8700’s higher TDP requires a robust cooling system to maintain optimal performance.

Choose the Intel Core i9 11950H if:

• You need a powerful and portable CPU. The 11950H’s mobile design makes it ideal for laptops and other mobile devices.
• You prioritize energy efficiency. The 11950H’s lower TDP translates into longer battery life for mobile devices.
• You need integrated graphics. The 11950H’s Iris Xe graphics offer a significant improvement over the 8700’s integrated graphics.

The Verdict: A Clear Winner?

While the Intel Core i9 11950H emerges as the victor in terms of raw performance, the Intel Core i7 8700 remains a compelling option, especially for budget-conscious users.
The 11950H’s generational advantage in architecture, performance, and integrated graphics makes it the clear choice for those seeking the latest and greatest in mobile computing. However, the 8700 is still a powerful and capable desktop CPU that can deliver exceptional performance for a lower price.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Is the Intel Core i7 8700 still a good choice in 2023?
A: While the 8700 is an older CPU, it remains a solid option for budget-minded users. Its performance is still respectable for everyday tasks and gaming, especially at lower resolutions.
Q: Is the Intel Core i9 11950H worth the extra cost?
A: If you need the best possible performance, especially for tasks like video editing and rendering, the 11950H is a worthwhile investment. It also offers a significant upgrade in integrated graphics, making it ideal for mobile gamers.
Q: Which CPU is better for gaming?
A: The 11950H’s integrated graphics are significantly better for gaming than the 8700’s. However, both CPUs will require a dedicated graphics card for demanding games at high resolutions and settings.
Q: What are the main differences between the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 11950H?
A: The 11950H is a newer, more powerful processor with a higher core count, faster clock speeds, and improved integrated graphics. It is also more energy-efficient and designed for mobile devices. The 8700 is a powerful desktop CPU that offers excellent performance at a lower price.
Q: Which CPU is better for multitasking?
A: The 11950H’s extra cores and threads make it better suited for multitasking and running multiple demanding applications simultaneously.