Intel 10700K vs 11700K: An In-Depth Comparison for PC Builders

So you‘re putting together parts for a new high-end gaming rig or workstation. And like any PC enthusiast, you want ONLY the best CPU possible to power your system.

In your research, two options likely popped out: the Intel Core i7-10700K and Core i7-11700K. Both seriously impressive processors. But exactly how do they stack up against each other? What‘s different between these two CPUs? And which one is RIGHT for your next PC?

This comprehensive guide examines every key spec, feature and performance metric. To provide a complete 10700K vs 11700K comparison. Helping you decide which processor should go into YOUR ultimate Intel-based build.

Let‘s dive in!

10700K vs 11700K Overview: 8 Core Beasts for Gaming and Creative Work

The Core i7-10700K and 11700K represent Intel‘s finest when it comes to unlocked desktop processors. They share the same foundation, built on Intel’s refined 14nm/10nm process node for excellent efficiency:

• 8 CPU cores / 16 threads: Provides exceptional parallel processing power for heavy multitasking.
• 16 MB SmartCache: Large cache improves performance in memory intensive apps.
• Unlocked Multipliers: Makes overclocking simple to push frequencies even higher.
• PCIe 3.0 and PCIe 4.0: Tons of bandwidth for ultra fast SSDs and graphics cards.
• Integrated UHD Graphics: Save money by skipping a graphics card for basic systems.
• Premium Motherboard Compatibility: Take advantage of high-end Z490/Z590 chipset features.

This muscle makes both CPUs top choices for high FPS gaming, live streaming, video editing, 3D modeling, code compiling and other demanding productivity workloads.

You really can‘t go wrong with either. But differences in architecture, clock speeds and features do impact each model‘s overall capabilities. Keep reading as we dive DEEP into exactly how the 10700K and 11700K compare.

CPU Architecture: Intel 14nm vs 10nm Process Nodes

The first big difference is manufacturing process…

• The 10700K utilizes Intel’s highly refined 14nm++ node first introduced in 2017. Mature 14nm clocks very well, but lacks efficiency of the newer 10nm process.

• The 11700K leverages a tweaked version of 10nm called “SuperFin”, first appearing in late 2020 configs. SuperFin enhanced yields for better economies of scale and higher clock speeds.

Advantage: 11700K. 10nm SuperFin is optimized for both frequency AND efficiency.

Clock Speeds: Raw GHz Differences

Clock speed dictates how many processing cycles a CPU accomplishes per second. Higher frequencies directly translate to snappier performance.

• The 10700K features a higher base clock at 3.8 GHz over the 11700K’s 3.6 GHz. So lightly threaded tasks operate marginally quicker.
• Under full load however, the 11700K can maintain much higher clocks across all 8 cores – thanks to architectural improvements and more advanced process node.

Advantage: 10700K for single-threaded workloads. 11700K for heavy multi-tasking or creative applications.

Overclocking Headroom: Pushing Performance Higher

Enthusiasts choose K-SKU Intel chips primarily for their unlocked multipliers. This enables easy and stable overclocking to frequencies beyond stock specs.

Both the 10700K and 11700K feature fully unlocked multipliers. Allowing additional performance to be extracted by raising clock speeds incrementally.

Expected Overclocking Performance

The 11700K holds a slight edge thanks to its newer architectural design and more advanced process node. But both CPUs have plenty of headroom for the average overclocker.

Advantage: Toss-up. Overclocking results rely heavily on your chip’s individual quality and capabilities of the motherboard power delivery.

PCIe Support: Unlocking Next-Gen SSD Performance

As solid state storage continues gaining popularity, chipmakers race to link CPUs and SSDs via ever faster data pipelines.

• The 10700K only supports up to PCIe 3.0 – capping bandwidth for cutting edge PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSDs.
• The 11700K adds full compatibility with PCIe 4.0 for 2X the transfer speeds.

This allows next-generation storage to stretch its legs, pushing sequential reads beyond 6,000 MB/s!

Advantage: 11700K easily. PCIe 4.0 paves the upgrade path for future SSD tech, unlocking new performance tiers.

Memory Support: Getting The Most From RAM

RAM serves as a CPU’s high-speed workspace – so bandwidth and capacity limits processing speed.

• Both CPUs utilize DDR4 RAM – the standard for modern desktops.
• But the 11700K supports faster memory clocks, up to DDR4-3200 vs DDR4-2933 on the 10700K.

Faster RAM provides tangible improvements to application load times and performance scaling.

Advantage: 11700K. Even slightly higher memory clocks impact real-world speed.

Integrated Graphics: Paying The Gaming Premium

All modern desktop Intel processors feature built-in UHD graphics. Perfect for basic systems that don’t require a discrete graphics card.

The 11700K utilizes Intel’s latest Xe-LP graphics microarchitecture. Representing a nice uplift over previous Gen9.5 graphics found on the 10700K.

Don’t expect amazing 4K gaming without a dedicated card. But the 11700K’s improved IGP better handles very casual 3D applications and light workloads. Saving you money over paying the discrete GPU premium.

Advantage: 11700K if using integrated graphics. 10700K if installing a separate graphics card.

Power Consumption and Thermals: The Overclocking Cost

Higher performing silicon demands increased power and cooling.

Both CPUs share a 125W TDP rating for stock operation. But differences in architecture, clocks and features change power demands…

• The 11700K’s updated design and added technologies result in higher transient power draws – especially when overclocked.
• Realistically expect the 11700K to consume around 50 additional watts to maintain stability at full load.

This requires beefier CPU coolers and power supply overhead. Particularly if sustaining all-core overclocks approaching or exceeding 5.0GHz.

Advantage: 10700K if using a mid-range cooler or lower wattage PSU. 11700K if equipped with premium cooling and an 850W+ PSU.

Motherboard Compatibility: Choosing The Right Chipset

While both CPUs share the same LGA 1200 socket, motherboard chipset support varies…

• The 10700K works in both 400 and 500-series boards.
• The 11700K ONLY functions properly with 500-series motherboards.

You CAN physically install the 11700K into a Z490 board. But won’t unlock full features without PCIe 4.0 supported traces. Mandating an upgrade if you want leading connectivity.

Advantage: 10700K for existing builds with 400-series boards. 11700K if building new or upgrading your motherboard anyway.

Pricing Showdown: Get More Bang-For-Buck

At launch, the 11700K demanded around a 10-15% price premium over the 10700K thanks to its new architecture and feature set.

However, CPUs see aggressive market value depreciation over time. After some availability and demand changes, current street pricing is EXTREMELY competitive on both fronts:

With only $20 now separating these two powerhouse processors, the 11700K emerges as an incredible value given its performance and technology advantages.

Advantage: 11700K. Newer architecture and feature support for just 6% more money.

10700K vs 11700K: Game FPS Benchmark Comparison

Let’s see how these architectural and clock differences actually impact real-world gaming speeds running a GeForce RTX 3080 GPU at 1080p resolution…

• Assassin‘s Creed: Valhalla – 10700K = 129 FPS, 11700K = 127 FPS
• Call of Duty: Warzone – 10700K = 159 FPS, 11700K = 162 FPS
• Cyberpunk 2077 – 10700K = 106 FPS, 11700K = 110 FPS

Very similar gaming performance between the two. The 10700K’s 300MHz frequency advantage manifests in some games. But the 11700K stays close thanks to RAM and architecture improvements.

Advantage: Toss-up. Average FPS is matched closely enough that either CPU will provide an equally excellent gaming experience.

10700K vs 11700K: Productivity Benchmark Comparison

For productivity scenarios like video editing, 3D rendering and code compiling, the 11700K shows its strength…

• Adobe Premiere Benchmark: 10700K = 575 points, 11700K = 621 points
• Cinebench R23 Multi Core: 10700K = 18,250 points, 11700K = 19,195 points
• 7-Zip Compression Benchmark: 10700K = 59,000 MIPS, 11700K = 62,100 MIPS

The 11700K’s cutting-edge architecture allows it to crunch through rendering tasks faster. Helping you fly through timelines in your favorite creative applications.

Advantage: 11700K. More performance where it matters for creative pros and developers.

Conclusion: Which Should You Pick for Your Next PC?

So there you have it. A complete breakdown covering every key aspect differentiating the Core i7-10700K and Core i7-11700K.

Both processors represent powerful options for high-end desktops. But based on the 11700K‘s smarter architecture, memory and storage improvements – it‘s my top recommendation for most PC builders today.

You gain the latest connectivity and best-in-class multi-core throughput. While only paying a tiny premium over the previous generation 10700K. Making that small extra investment worthwhile for more future-proofed performance.

Of course if already running an older 400-series board – or if every dollar saved matters in your budget – the 10700K still operates fantastic as well. Ultimately it comes down to your upgrade path preference and budget flexibility.

Hopefully breaking down all the nitty-gritty specs paints a clear picture on exactly how these two CPUs compare. Let me know if you have any other questions!