![Intel Core i7 6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake Desktop Processor, Socket LGA 1151 [BX80662I76700K] (Renewed)](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81grWqOTnDL._AC_SL1500_.jpg)
Intel Core i7 6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake Desktop Processor, Socket LGA 1151 [BX80662I76700K] (Renewed)
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AI Verdict
This is a 4.00 GHz, quad-core, unlocked LGA 1151 Skylake i7, best for budget builds or upgrading existing LGA 1151 systems.
This 4.00 GHz quad-core processor is a situational fit, primarily serving those with an existing LGA 1151 motherboard looking for a cost-effective upgrade or budget builders targeting specific use cases. Its older architecture and core count limit its competitiveness against newer CPUs in demanding scenarios.
If this CPU isn't enough, look for a CPU with at least 6 cores and a newer socket like LGA 1700 or AM4/AM5 for better multi-threaded performance and platform longevity.
Regret Score™
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Amazon rating vs actual quality
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Pros
- Unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking, potentially extending its performance life.
- Base clock speed of 4.00 GHz provides solid performance for many applications and older games.
- Supports both DDR3L and DDR4 memory, offering flexibility for existing builds.
- Integrated graphics support display resolutions up to 4096x2304.
- Intel Turbo Boost Technology dynamically increases clock speed for demanding tasks.
- Cost-effective solution for users with compatible LGA 1151 motherboards.
Cons
- Older 6th generation Skylake architecture shows its age in modern, CPU-intensive games and applications.
- Quad-core, 8-thread design is outperformed in multi-threaded tasks by current mid-tier CPUs.
- LGA 1151 socket is an older platform with limited future upgrade paths.
- Renewed status means potential for inconsistent quality or prior heavy use, despite testing.
- Does not include a stock cooler, requiring an additional purchase.
Dimension Scores
Its 4.00 GHz base clock and 4.2 GHz Turbo Boost still provide adequate single-thread performance for many applications, comparable to some newer budget CPUs.
The quad-core, eight-thread design is significantly outmatched by modern mid-range processors, which often feature more cores and newer architectures for multi-threaded workloads.
Built on a 14nm process with a 91W TDP, its power efficiency was average for its generation, but newer CPUs offer better performance per watt.
The LGA 1151 socket is a discontinued platform, meaning there are no newer CPU upgrade options available for compatible motherboards.
Best For
- Budget gaming builds targeting less demanding or older titles at 1080p resolution.
- Upgrading an existing LGA 1151 system from a lower-end CPU to extend its lifespan.
- Light productivity tasks, web browsing, and general computing.
- Overclocking enthusiasts on a tight budget looking to maximize performance from older hardware.
Not Recommended For
- High-end gaming with modern, CPU-intensive AAA titles at high refresh rates or resolutions.
- Professional video editing, 3D rendering, or other heavily multi-threaded workstation applications.
- New PC builds aiming for current generation performance or long-term upgradeability.
Watch Out For
- The 'renewed' nature of the product means you might receive a chip that has been heavily used or overclocked previously, potentially impacting its longevity, though it's tested to work like new.
- No CPU cooler is included, so you'll need to factor in the cost and selection of an aftermarket cooler.
- While some users report running Windows 11, the i7-6700K is not officially supported by Microsoft for Windows 11, which could lead to compatibility issues or lack of future updates.
- Performance in new games shows its age, with users noting it can bottleneck newer, high-end GPUs, especially at higher resolutions or frame rates.
Full Specifications
| ASIN | B07JQ3638R |
| Brand | Intel |
| CPU Model | Core i7 |
| CPU Speed | 4 GHz |
| CPU Socket | LGA 1151 |
| Item Weight | 2.11 ounces |
| Manufacturer | Intel |
| CPU Manufacturer | Intel |
| Item model number | SR2L0 |
| Product Dimensions | 5.5 x 4.8 x 1.8 inches |
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
What Buyers Say
Many users report that this renewed i7-6700K, despite its age, still holds its own for gaming at 1080p, especially when paired with a capable graphics card. The ability to overclock is a frequently mentioned benefit, allowing users to squeeze out more performance and extend its usability. However, it's consistently noted that the CPU shows its limitations in newer, more demanding games and multi-threaded applications, where it can become a bottleneck. The value proposition as a renewed part for existing LGA 1151 systems is a key draw.
“Dude, I snagged this renewed 6700K for my old Z170 board and it's still crushing Fortnite and even Cyberpunk at 1080p with my 1070, totally worth it for the price, just had to get a decent cooler!”
Common Praise
- Still runs many games at 1080p without issues when paired with a strong GPU.
- Overclocking potential allows for significant performance gains, making it feel like an upgrade.
- Cost-effective solution for users with compatible LGA 1151 motherboards looking for an upgrade.
- Integrated graphics are competent for basic display needs and some older titles.
- Can handle light productivity and general computing tasks without struggle.
Common Complaints
- Shows its age in new, CPU-intensive games, leading to lower frame rates or stuttering.
- Not officially supported for Windows 11, which could be a concern for some users.
- Multi-threaded performance is significantly behind newer processors, impacting tasks like video editing.
- The LGA 1151 platform offers no further CPU upgrade path, limiting future-proofing.
- Some renewed units might have been heavily used or overclocked, raising concerns about long-term reliability.
Ownership Tips
- Overclocking this CPU can provide a noticeable performance bump, but requires a good aftermarket cooler and a compatible Z-series motherboard.
- Performance heavily depends on the paired graphics card; a stronger GPU can mask some of its CPU limitations in gaming.
- Expect to manage thermals carefully if you plan to overclock, as it can run warm.
- The lack of official Windows 11 support means you might stick with Windows 10 for optimal stability.
- It's a CPU that benefits from being in a system with fast RAM (DDR4) and an SSD for overall responsiveness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Intel Core i7 6700K (Renewed) come with a CPU cooler?
No, like most 'K' series Intel processors, this renewed i7-6700K does not include a stock CPU cooler. You will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately.
What motherboards are compatible with this processor?
This processor uses the LGA 1151 socket and is compatible with Intel 100-series (Z170, H170, B150, H110) and 200-series (Z270, H270, B250) chipsets.
Is the i7-6700K still good for gaming in 2024?
For older or less demanding games, and at 1080p resolution when paired with a capable GPU, it can still provide acceptable performance. However, it shows its age in new, CPU-intensive titles and can bottleneck higher-end graphics cards.
What does 'unlocked processor' mean?
An 'unlocked' processor, indicated by the 'K' in its model name, means its clock multiplier is adjustable. This allows users to manually increase its operating frequency (overclock) beyond its stock 4.00 GHz for additional performance.
What does 'Renewed' mean for this product?
Amazon Renewed products are tested and certified to look and work like new. The refurbishing process includes functionality testing, basic cleaning, inspection, and repackaging, and it comes with a minimum 90-day warranty.
Is the Intel Core i7 6700K compatible with Windows 11?
The i7-6700K is not officially supported by Microsoft for Windows 11. While some users have managed to install and run Windows 11, official support and future updates may be an issue.
Buying Guide
When looking at a CPU like this, you need to understand that the 'K' means you can push its speed beyond the factory settings, but you'll need a motherboard that supports it and a good cooler. The 'socket' is like the plug on the CPU; it has to match the socket on your motherboard, or it won't fit. More 'cores' generally means it can handle more tasks at once, but for gaming, the speed of each core ('GHz') is often more important for older titles.
Unlocked processor (K-series)
This means you can manually increase the processor's operating speed (overclocking) for more performance, but it requires a compatible motherboard (like a Z170 or Z270) and an aftermarket cooler to manage the extra heat.
Socket LGA 1151
This is the physical interface that connects the CPU to the motherboard. Your motherboard must have an LGA 1151 socket for this processor to be physically compatible.
4.00 GHz base clock
This is the minimum speed at which the processor cores operate. A higher GHz generally indicates faster processing for tasks that rely on single-core performance, like many older games.
Quad-core, 8-thread
This CPU has four physical processing units (cores) and can handle eight software threads simultaneously. More cores and threads are beneficial for multitasking and applications that can distribute their workload across multiple cores, like video editing.
Alternatives
If this CPU doesn't fit your needs, search for processors with a higher core count (e.g., 6 or 8 cores) and a newer socket type (e.g., LGA 1700 for Intel or AM4/AM5 for AMD) to gain better multi-threaded performance and a clearer upgrade path.
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