A high-performance quad-core processor with turbo-boost possible up to 4GHZ.
This version of the Core i7 is the top end of the mainstream (consumer) portion of Intel's 6th generation desktop processors. I used mine on a
Gigabyte GA-Z170X-Gaming 7
board, where it worked without any problems or BIOS updates needed.
Considering 7th gen i7s (i7-7700) were available as of my purchase date, here's why I picked the older model:
Pros:
* Broader compatibility with older boards than 7th gen. Some older boards will support 7th gen after a BIOS update, but need a 6th-gen CPU to boot from in the first place.
* The older boards are notably cheaper still. (compare Z170 and Z270 boards)
* Reports of heat issues and thermal throttling with the 7th gen version of this CPU. As of this writing, that means the i7-7700 may have worse performance under load.
* CPU cooler is included. (not included with i7-7700 boxed)
* Slightly cheaper than i7-7700.
* Runs cool (low powered) when idle, compared to older gen i7.
Cons:
* Slightly slower (200MHZ slower than i7-7700)
* Peak turboboost is a little better on i7-7700 (higher clock when boosting multiple cores)
* Stock cooler is so-so. The fan is sort of loud (whiney) if cranked up at all, and very loud at max speed. Under load, the fan cranks up almost immediately.
If it's been more than two months since I wrote this review, consider researching the heat issue on the i7-7700 to see if that concern still applies. But in the short-term, the 6th gen CPUs like this one, and the matching boards, may still be a better value and better choice than the 7th gen.
| Processor | 3.4 GHz core_i7 |
|---|---|
| Wireless Type | Radio Frequency |
