Intel Core i7 8700 vs Intel Core i9 9980XE: Which CPU Reigns Supreme?

Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when you’re faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders that often come up in discussions are the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9980XE. Both processors boast impressive performance, but they cater to different use cases and budgets. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the key differences between these two CPUs, helping you decide which one is the best fit for your specific requirements.

Core i7 8700: The Workhorse for Everyday Tasks

The Intel Core i7 8700 is a six-core, twelve-thread processor that was released in 2017. It’s a popular choice for gamers, content creators, and everyday users who demand smooth performance across a wide range of applications. This CPU is known for its exceptional balance between performance and affordability.
Here’s a breakdown of the core i7 8700’s key features:

• Six cores and twelve threads: This multi-core architecture enables efficient multitasking and smooth performance for demanding applications.
• Base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and boost clock speed of 4.6 GHz: The high clock speeds ensure rapid processing and responsiveness.
• Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630: This graphics card provides decent performance for casual gaming and everyday tasks.
• L3 cache of 9 MB: This large cache allows the CPU to store frequently accessed data, resulting in faster processing times.
• Supports DDR4 RAM up to 2666 MHz: This ensures ample bandwidth for data transfer.

Core i9 9980XE: The High-Performance Beast for Professionals

The Intel Core i9 9980XE is a behemoth of a processor, featuring eighteen cores and thirty-six threads. Released in 2018, this CPU is designed for professionals who demand the ultimate processing power. It’s a powerhouse for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations.
Here’s a closer look at the core i9 9980XE’s key features:

• Eighteen cores and thirty-six threads: This massive core count offers unparalleled parallel processing capabilities, enabling lightning-fast performance for demanding workloads.
• Base clock speed of 3.0 GHz and boost clock speed of 4.5 GHz: The high clock speeds provide a significant performance boost.
• Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630: Similar to the core i7 8700, this graphics card is sufficient for basic tasks.
• L3 cache of 24.75 MB: The massive cache size ensures that frequently accessed data is readily available, speeding up processing.
• Supports DDR4 RAM up to 2666 MHz: Provides ample bandwidth for data transfer.

Performance Comparison: Where They Excel and Where They Fall Short

While both CPUs offer impressive performance, they cater to different audiences. The core i7 8700 is a well-rounded processor that excels in everyday tasks and moderate gaming, while the core i9 9980XE is a powerhouse for professionals who demand the ultimate processing power.
Here’s a breakdown of their performance in key areas:

• Gaming: The core i7 8700 offers excellent gaming performance, especially at 1080p resolution. The core i9 9980XE also performs well, but its high price tag may not justify the extra performance for most gamers.
• Content creation: The core i9 9980XE shines in content creation tasks like video editing and 3D rendering, where its massive core count provides a significant advantage. The core i7 8700 can handle these tasks, but it may struggle with larger projects or demanding software.
• Multitasking: Both CPUs are capable of handling multiple tasks simultaneously. However, the core i9 9980XE’s higher core count allows it to manage even more demanding workloads with ease.
• Power consumption: The core i9 9980XE consumes significantly more power than the core i7 8700, which can impact energy bills and potentially require a more powerful cooling solution.

Price and Value: Finding the Sweet Spot

The price difference between the core i7 8700 and the core i9 9980XE is significant. The core i7 8700 is a more affordable option, making it an attractive choice for budget-conscious users. On the other hand, the core i9 9980XE comes with a hefty price tag, making it a more suitable option for professionals who can justify the investment.
Here’s a summary of their pricing:

• Core i7 8700: The core i7 8700 is a more affordable option, offering excellent value for its price.
• Core i9 9980XE: The core i9 9980XE is a high-end processor with a premium price tag, reflecting its exceptional performance capabilities.

Choosing the Right CPU for Your Needs

When choosing between the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9980XE, it’s crucial to consider your specific needs and budget.
Here’s a guide to help you make the right decision:

• If you’re a casual gamer or everyday user: The core i7 8700 is a fantastic choice. It offers excellent performance at an affordable price.
• If you’re a content creator or professional who needs the ultimate processing power: The core i9 9980XE is the clear winner. Its massive core count and exceptional performance are unmatched.
• If you’re on a tight budget: The core i7 8700 provides excellent value for its price.
• If you’re willing to invest in the best of the best: The core i9 9980XE is the ultimate processor for demanding workloads.

The Final Verdict: A Tale of Two Processors

The Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9980XE are both exceptional processors, but they cater to different needs and budgets. The core i7 8700 is a well-rounded workhorse that offers excellent performance for everyday tasks and gaming, while the core i9 9980XE is a high-performance beast that’s ideal for professionals who demand the ultimate processing power. Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your specific requirements and budget.

The End of the Road: A Look Back on Our Journey

Our journey exploring the Intel Core i7 8700 vs Intel Core i9 9980XE has led us through a comprehensive analysis of their features, performance, and value. We’ve delved into the intricacies of each CPU, uncovering their strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the decision of which processor reigns supreme comes down to your individual needs and preferences.

What You Need to Know

Q1: Is the Core i9 9980XE worth the price for gaming?
While the Core i9 9980XE offers excellent gaming performance, its high price tag may not be justifiable for most gamers. The Core i7 8700 provides a more affordable option with comparable performance, especially at 1080p resolution.
Q2: Can the Core i7 8700 handle demanding video editing tasks?
The Core i7 8700 can handle video editing tasks, but it may struggle with larger projects or demanding software. The Core i9 9980XE is a better choice for professional video editing, thanks to its massive core count and exceptional performance.
Q3: What are the differences in power consumption between the two CPUs?
The Core i9 9980XE consumes significantly more power than the Core i7 8700. This can impact energy bills and potentially require a more powerful cooling solution.
Q4: Is the Core i9 9980XE still relevant in 2023?
The Core i9 9980XE is still a powerful processor, but newer CPUs offer better performance per dollar. If you need the ultimate performance for demanding workloads, the Core i9 9980XE is still a viable option. However, for most users, newer CPUs offer a better value proposition.