PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.

Overview

The Core i7-10700K is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 30 April 2020 (5 years ago). It is based on the Comet Lake (2020−2025) architecture. It features 8 cores and 16 threads. Base frequency is 3.8 GHz, with boost up to 5.1 GHz. L3 cache: 16 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1200. Thermal design power (TDP): 125 Watt. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 18,561 points. Launch price was $400.

Value Upgrade Path

This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.•
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar Core i7-10700K

#730

Ryzen Embedded V2748

MSRP: $309|Avg: $359

105%

#731

A8-3800

MSRP: $130|Avg: $40

105%

#732

Core i7-5775C

MSRP: $366|Avg: $150

105%

#733

Core i7-7800X

MSRP: $383|Avg: $254

105%

#734

Core i3-9350K

MSRP: $184|Avg: $150

104%

#735

Pentium G3420

MSRP: $86|Avg: $40

104%

#736

Athlon 64 3200+

MSRP: $417|Avg: $10

103%

#737

Core i7-2600K

MSRP: $317|Avg: $109

103%

#738

Core 2 Quad Q8200

MSRP: $224|Avg: $36

103%

#739

Pentium G6950

MSRP: $87|Avg: $25

103%

#740

Core 2 Duo E8500

MSRP: $26|Avg: $26

102%

#741

Athlon Gold PRO 3150G

MSRP: $150|Avg: $150

102%

#742

Core i9-9900

MSRP: $423|Avg: $330

101%

#743

Core i9-9980XE

MSRP: $1979|Avg: $593

101%

#744

Core i3-10100T

MSRP: $149|Avg: N/A

100%

#745

Core i7-10700K

MSRP: $387|Avg: $380

100%

#746

Core i3-4150

MSRP: $281|Avg: $70

100%

#747

Core i5-4430S

MSRP: $182|Avg: $90

100%

#748

Core i3-3245

MSRP: $120|Avg: $50

99%

#749

Pentium G3420T

MSRP: $75|Avg: $40

98%

#750

Core i5-3450

MSRP: $184|Avg: $95

97%

#751

Core i5-4440

MSRP: $184|Avg: $101

97%

#752

Celeron 440

MSRP: $59|Avg: $10

97%

#753

Core i5-4690T

MSRP: $192|Avg: $98

97%

#754

Celeron G5905T

MSRP: $50|Avg: $50

96%

#755

Athlon PRO 200GE

MSRP: $55|Avg: $81

96%

#756

Core i5-9600

MSRP: $224|Avg: $219

96%

#757

Core i3-8300

MSRP: $138|Avg: $136

96%

#758

Core i7-2600S

MSRP: $297|Avg: $99

96%

#759

Core i5-4690

MSRP: $272|Avg: $120

95%

#760

Core i5-8500B

MSRP: $192|Avg: $192

95%

Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

FPS Benchmarks

Predicted performance for Core i7-10700K across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-10700K specifications and capabilities.

⚡

Processing Power

The Core i7-10700K is a 8-core / 16-thread processor based on the Comet Lake (2020−2025) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 5.1 GHz from a base frequency of 3.8 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 16 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256K (per core) of L2 cache and 64K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 18,561, placing it in the Mid-Range performance tier as a Aging generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 1,290, while multi-core reaches 8,404. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 14,144.

Specification	Core i7-10700K
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units	8C / 16T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost	5.1 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency	3.8 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design	Comet Lake (2020−2025)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient	14 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores	16 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data	256K (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache	64K (per core)
Bus SpeedData bus frequency	8 GT/s
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C
64-bit Support	Yes
Windows 11 Compatible	Yes
Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked	Yes (Overclockable)
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score	18,561
Cinebench R23 MultiSustained multi-core rendering performance	14,144
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming	1,290
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance	8,404

🧠

Memory & Platform

The Core i7-10700K fits into the LGA1200 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2933 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 128 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: UHD Graphics 630 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

Specification	Core i7-10700K
TypeDesktop or Laptop processor	desktop
SocketMotherboard socket required	LGA1200
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth	PCIe 3.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion	16
RAM TypeSupported memory standard	DDR4
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency	DDR4-2933
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory	128 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel	2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption	No
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor	UHD Graphics 630
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU	Intel 400 Series,Intel 500 Series
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers	1

🔧

Advanced Features

The Core i7-10700K is primarily designed for Gaming/Workstation. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: Yes — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Ryzen 7 3700X.

Specification	Core i7-10700K
Primary Use CaseIntended workload category	Gaming/Workstation
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased	✅ Unlocked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads	❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology	Yes
Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer	Ryzen 7 3700X

🌡️

Power & Cooling

The Core i7-10700K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 125 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: true.

Specification	Core i7-10700K
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload	125 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)	100 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box	No
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution	true

💰

Value Analysis

At an average price of $380 (MSRP: $387), the Core i7-10700K delivers 49 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #846 out of all indexed processors.

Specification	Core i7-10700K
MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price	$387
Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days	$380
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch	$400
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking	#846
Release DateLaunch date	30 April 2020 (5 years ago)
Release Year	2020
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)	Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)	Intel