CPU Face-Off: Intel Core i7 8700 vs Intel Core i9 9880H – Which Processor Wins?

Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders often come up in discussions: the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9880H. Both processors boast impressive performance, but they cater to different use cases and have distinct strengths. This blog post will delve into a comprehensive comparison of these two CPUs, exploring their key features, performance benchmarks, and suitability for various tasks, helping you make an informed decision for your next computer purchase.

Core i7 8700: A Workhorse for Everyday Tasks

The Intel Core i7 8700, released in 2017, is a powerful 6-core processor with 12 threads, making it a popular choice for both gaming and productivity tasks. Its base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and boost clock speed of 4.6 GHz ensure smooth performance for everyday applications. The 8700 also features Intel’s Hyper-Threading technology, allowing it to handle multiple tasks simultaneously without significant performance degradation.

Core i9 9880H: A High-End Powerhouse for Demanding Workloads

The Intel Core i9 9880H, released in 2018, is a high-end processor designed for demanding workloads. It boasts 8 cores and 16 threads, offering exceptional multi-core performance. Its base clock speed of 2.3 GHz and boost clock speed of 4.8 GHz make it a true powerhouse for tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations. The 9880H also features Intel’s Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, which dynamically allocates the fastest cores to the most demanding tasks, further enhancing performance.

Comparing Performance: Benchmarks and Real-World Usage

While both CPUs offer impressive performance, the Core i9 9880H clearly outperforms the Core i7 8700 in multi-core applications. This is evident in benchmark tests like Cinebench R23, where the 9880H scores significantly higher in multi-core tests. This translates to faster rendering times for video editors, quicker compilation times for developers, and smoother performance for demanding games.
However, the Core i7 8700 still holds its own in single-core performance. This is important for tasks like web browsing, word processing, and light gaming. In these scenarios, the 8700’s higher clock speeds can lead to a more responsive experience.

Power Consumption and Thermal Performance

The Core i9 9880H is a more power-hungry processor than the Core i7 8700. This is due to its higher core count and clock speeds. As a result, the 9880H can generate more heat, requiring more robust cooling solutions. This can be a consideration for users looking for a compact and quiet laptop.
The Core i7 8700, on the other hand, is more energy-efficient and generates less heat. This makes it a suitable choice for users who prioritize battery life or prefer a cooler and quieter laptop.

Price and Availability

The Core i9 9880H is typically found in higher-end laptops and workstations, reflecting its premium performance. Consequently, it comes with a higher price tag compared to the Core i7 8700. The 8700, being a more affordable option, is often found in a wider range of laptops, making it accessible to a wider audience.

Which CPU is Right for You?

Choosing between the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9880H ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide:
Core i7 8700 is ideal for:

• Everyday users: Its strong single-core performance ensures smooth web browsing, productivity tasks, and light gaming.
• Budget-conscious users: It offers excellent value for its price, providing powerful performance without breaking the bank.
• Users who prioritize battery life: Its lower power consumption translates to longer battery life on laptops.

Core i9 9880H is ideal for:

• Professional users: Its exceptional multi-core performance is essential for demanding tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and scientific simulations.
• Gamers seeking high frame rates: Its powerful performance can handle the latest games at high settings and resolutions.
• Users who prioritize performance above all else: It delivers the highest performance in demanding applications.

A Final Verdict: It’s About Your Needs

Both the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9880H are excellent processors, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. The best choice for you depends on your specific needs, budget, and priorities. If you’re looking for a powerful processor for everyday tasks and prioritize value for money, the Core i7 8700 is a solid choice. If you’re a professional user or a demanding gamer who needs the ultimate performance, the Core i9 9880H is the way to go.

Information You Need to Know

1. What is the difference between the Intel Core i7 8700 and the Intel Core i9 9880H?
The main difference lies in the core count and clock speeds. The Core i9 9880H has a higher core count (8 vs 6) and faster clock speeds, resulting in significantly better multi-core performance. The Core i7 8700, however, offers slightly better single-core performance due to its higher boost clock speeds.
2. Which CPU is better for gaming?
For gaming, both CPUs offer excellent performance. The Core i9 9880H’s superior multi-core performance can benefit demanding games, while the Core i7 8700’s higher clock speeds can result in smoother gameplay in less demanding titles. Ultimately, the best choice depends on the specific game and your desired settings.
3. Which CPU is better for video editing?
The Core i9 9880H is the clear winner for video editing due to its exceptional multi-core performance. It can handle complex rendering tasks and multi-track timelines with ease, leading to faster editing workflows.
4. What about thermal performance?
The Core i9 9880H generates more heat due to its higher core count and clock speeds, requiring more efficient cooling solutions. The Core i7 8700 is more energy-efficient and generates less heat, making it a better choice for users who prioritize a cooler and quieter laptop.
5. Are these CPUs still relevant in 2023?
While these CPUs are not the latest models, they still offer excellent performance for many tasks. If you’re on a budget or looking for a reliable processor for everyday use, the Core i7 8700 is still a viable option. The Core i9 9880H can still handle demanding workloads effectively, although newer models might offer slightly better performance.