Intel Core i7 8700 vs Intel Core i9 9900: Which Processor Dominates in Performance and Price?

Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often come up in discussions: the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9900. Both processors are powerful and offer excellent performance, but which one truly reigns supreme? This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison, exploring their key features, performance benchmarks, and ultimately helping you decide which processor best suits your requirements.

Core i7 8700: A Solid Performer

The Intel Core i7 8700, released in 2017, was a powerhouse in its time. It boasts a six-core, twelve-thread configuration with a base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and a boost clock of 4.6 GHz. This processor was renowned for its exceptional gaming performance and smooth multitasking capabilities. Its 9MB of L3 cache further enhances its ability to handle demanding tasks efficiently.

Core i9 9900: The Flagship Champion

Released in 2018, the Intel Core i9 9900 is a flagship processor that sets the bar high. It features a formidable eight-core, sixteen-thread design with a base clock speed of 3.1 GHz and a boost clock of 5 GHz. Its larger 16MB of L3 cache and higher clock speeds contribute to its superior performance in various applications, particularly those that benefit from multi-core processing.

Performance Comparison: The Numbers Speak Volumes

While both processors are capable, the Core i9 9900 undeniably holds a performance advantage. Its additional cores and higher clock speeds translate to faster processing speeds, resulting in quicker render times, smoother video editing, and more responsive multitasking.
Gaming: Both processors excel in gaming, delivering smooth frame rates and excellent gameplay experiences. However, the Core i9 9900’s higher core count and clock speeds can provide a slight edge in demanding games, especially at higher resolutions and with demanding graphics settings.
Productivity: The Core i9 9900 shines in productivity tasks, particularly those that leverage multi-core processing. Its additional cores allow for faster rendering, video editing, and multitasking, making it a preferred choice for professionals and power users.
Benchmarks: Benchmark tests consistently show the Core i9 9900 outperforming the Core i7 8700 in various categories, including CPU-intensive tasks, multi-threaded workloads, and overall performance.

Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot

The Core i9 9900 is undeniably more expensive than the Core i7 8700, reflecting its superior performance and features. However, the question of value boils down to your specific needs and budget. If you prioritize budget-friendliness and still desire a powerful processor for gaming and everyday tasks, the Core i7 8700 remains a solid choice. On the other hand, if you require the ultimate performance for demanding applications, the Core i9 9900 is the clear winner, even at a higher price point.

Power Consumption and Thermal Considerations

The Core i9 9900, with its higher core count and clock speeds, naturally consumes more power than the Core i7 8700. This translates to higher heat generation, requiring a more robust cooling solution to maintain optimal temperatures. The Core i7 8700, while requiring a cooling solution, generally runs cooler and consumes less power.

Upgrade Path: Future-Proofing Your Choice

Both processors lack support for PCIe 4.0, which is becoming increasingly prevalent in newer motherboards and components. This means that your upgrade path may be limited if you choose either of these processors. If future-proofing is a priority, consider newer processors that support PCIe 4.0 for greater flexibility and future compatibility.

Choosing the Right Processor: A Final Verdict

So, which processor emerges as the victor in the Intel Core i7 8700 vs Intel Core i9 9900 battle? The answer, as with many technology decisions, depends on your specific needs and budget.
Choose the Core i7 8700 if:

• You prioritize budget-friendliness.
• You primarily use your computer for gaming and everyday tasks.
• You don’t require the absolute peak performance for demanding applications.

Choose the Core i9 9900 if:

• You’re willing to invest in top-tier performance.
• You frequently work with demanding applications like video editing, 3D rendering, or multi-tasking.
• You prioritize the fastest possible processing speeds.

Beyond the Battle: The Future of Intel CPUs

While the Core i7 8700 and Core i9 9900 are still capable processors, Intel has since released newer generations of CPUs with improved performance, efficiency, and features. The 12th Gen Intel Core processors, for example, offer a significant leap in performance with their hybrid architecture, combining high-performance cores with energy-efficient cores.

Final Thoughts: Making an Informed Decision

The Intel Core i7 8700 and Core i9 9900 represent two powerful options in the CPU landscape. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific requirements and budget. By carefully considering your needs and weighing the pros and cons of each processor, you can make an informed decision that ensures optimal performance for your computing needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the Core i9 9900 still a good choice in 2023?
A: While the Core i9 9900 is still a powerful processor, it is starting to show its age. Newer processors, such as the 12th Gen Intel Core processors, offer significant performance improvements and support for newer technologies like PCIe 4.0. If you’re looking for the latest and greatest, consider exploring newer options.
Q: What are the best motherboards for the Core i7 8700 and Core i9 9900?
A: Both processors are compatible with Intel’s 300 series motherboards. Look for motherboards with a Z370 or Z390 chipset for optimal performance and features.
Q: What are the differences between the Core i7 8700 and the Core i7 8700K?
A: The Core i7 8700K is an unlocked version of the Core i7 8700, meaning it allows for overclocking. This gives users the ability to push the processor to higher clock speeds, potentially improving performance. However, overclocking requires a compatible motherboard and a good cooling solution.
Q: What are some alternatives to the Core i7 8700 and Core i9 9900?
A: If you’re looking for alternatives, consider newer processors like the 12th Gen Intel Core processors or AMD Ryzen processors. These processors offer comparable or even better performance with improved features and energy efficiency.