What To Know
- The Intel Core i7 8700 is a 6-core, 12-thread processor launched in 2017, while the Intel Core i9 9900T is an 8-core, 16-thread processor released in 2019.
- The choice between the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9900T ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget.
- The 8700 is a powerful and affordable option that excels in single-core performance and gaming, while the 9900T offers superior multi-core performance for demanding workloads.
Choosing the right CPU can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular choices often come up: the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9900T. Both processors offer impressive performance, but they cater to different needs and budgets. This blog post will delve into the key differences between these two CPUs, helping you make an informed decision for your next PC build.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into the comparison, let’s understand the basics of these CPUs. The Intel Core i7 8700 is a 6-core, 12-thread processor launched in 2017, while the Intel Core i9 9900T is an 8-core, 16-thread processor released in 2019. The 9900T is a “T” series CPU, which implies it’s a lower-power, more energy-efficient variant of the standard 9900K.
Performance: A Detailed Comparison
Single-Core Performance
The Intel Core i9 9900T boasts a higher base clock speed of 2.0 GHz compared to the 8700’s 3.2 GHz. However, the 8700 has a higher boost clock speed of 4.6 GHz, surpassing the 9900T’s 4.4 GHz. In real-world scenarios, the 8700 often edges out the 9900T in single-core performance due to its higher boost clock speed.
Multi-Core Performance
The 9900T’s 8 cores and 16 threads give it a significant advantage in multi-core performance. This translates to faster rendering times for video editing, smoother gameplay in demanding titles, and improved multitasking capabilities. The 8700, with its 6 cores and 12 threads, can still handle most tasks efficiently, but it might struggle with heavy workloads that require a lot of processing power.
Gaming Performance
For most modern games, the 8700’s higher boost clock speed and lower latency can provide a smoother gaming experience. However, the 9900T’s additional cores can be beneficial in demanding games that leverage multi-core processing. Ultimately, the difference in gaming performance between these two CPUs is often negligible, especially at 1080p resolution.
Power Consumption and Thermal Performance
The 9900T is designed for lower power consumption and reduced heat output. Its TDP (Thermal Design Power) is only 35W, compared to the 8700’s 65W. This makes the 9900T a better choice for smaller form factor PCs and systems with limited cooling capacity. The 8700, with its higher TDP, requires a more robust cooling solution to prevent thermal throttling.
Price and Value
The Intel Core i7 8700 is generally more affordable than the Intel Core i9 9900T. While the 9900T offers superior multi-core performance, its price premium might not be justifiable for users who primarily use their PCs for gaming or general productivity tasks.
Choosing the Right CPU: A Practical Guide
Choose the Intel Core i7 8700 if:
- You’re on a tight budget.
- You prioritize single-core performance, especially for gaming.
- You have a smaller form factor PC or limited cooling options.
- You don’t need the extra cores for professional workloads like video editing or 3D rendering.
Choose the Intel Core i9 9900T if:
- You’re willing to spend a bit more for better multi-core performance.
- You frequently engage in demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, or heavy multitasking.
- You value lower power consumption and reduced heat output.
Final Verdict: The Intel Core i7 8700 vs Intel Core i9 9900T
The choice between the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9900T ultimately depends on your individual needs and budget. The 8700 is a powerful and affordable option that excels in single-core performance and gaming, while the 9900T offers superior multi-core performance for demanding workloads. Consider your specific use case and prioritize the features that matter most to you.
What You Need to Know
1. What are the main differences between the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9900T?
The main differences lie in core count, clock speed, power consumption, and price. The 9900T has more cores, a lower TDP, and a higher price tag compared to the 8700.
2. Which CPU is better for gaming?
Both CPUs can deliver excellent gaming performance. The 8700’s higher boost clock speed might provide a slight edge in some games, but the 9900T’s additional cores can be beneficial in demanding titles.
3. Which CPU is better for video editing?
The 9900T’s 8 cores and 16 threads make it a better choice for video editing, as it can handle complex rendering tasks more efficiently.
4. Is the Intel Core i9 9900T worth the extra cost?
The 9900T’s price premium is justified if you need its superior multi-core performance for demanding workloads. If you primarily use your PC for gaming or general productivity, the 8700 offers excellent value for money.
5. Can I upgrade from an Intel Core i7 8700 to an Intel Core i9 9900T?
Yes, you can upgrade to a 9900T, but you might need to ensure your motherboard supports the newer CPU. However, upgrading from an 8700 to a 9900T might not be a significant performance jump for general use cases, especially considering the price difference.
