Intel Core i7-6700K Skylake Processor: features, specs and who it suits

The Intel Core i7-6700K is a desktop processor from the 6th-generation "Skylake" family. It has four cores, a 4.00 GHz base clock and an unlocked multiplier, and it fits motherboards with an LGA 1151 socket. It is a part for building or upgrading a desktop PC, not a complete computer.

What quad-core and 4.00 GHz mean

A core is an independent processing unit, so four cores let a PC work on several tasks at once, such as a game, a browser and background software. The 4.00 GHz figure is the base clock, the speed the chip is designed to hold under normal load. Intel lists a maximum turbo frequency of 4.20 GHz, which is the highest speed a core can reach when the workload and the cooling allow it.

Clock speed is only part of performance. Newer processor generations typically do more work per clock cycle, so a chip from this generation is best judged against the kind of software you plan to run.

What "unlocked" changes

The "K" in the name marks an unlocked multiplier. On a locked processor the multiplier, which sets the core speed relative to the base clock, is fixed. On an unlocked one, a suitable motherboard lets you raise it to overclock the chip. Overclocking generally needs a motherboard with a chipset that supports it, a capable cooler and some patience with settings, and it is optional: the processor runs at its rated speeds without it.

Memory support and graphics

Intel lists support for DDR4-1866 and DDR4-2133 memory, and for DDR3L-1333 and DDR3L-1600 at 1.35 V. Which of these you can use depends on the motherboard, because boards are built for one memory type, not both. Check your board's memory slots before choosing RAM.

The processor also includes integrated graphics, with a base frequency of 350 MHz and a maximum dynamic frequency of 1.15 GHz. Integrated graphics can drive a monitor for everyday desktop work without a separate graphics card, and many builders still add a dedicated card for demanding games or creative software.

Other features the listing names

Intel highlights Smart Cache, a shared pool of fast memory that the cores use to cut down on trips to main memory, along with an integrated memory controller and Quick Path Interconnect. Intel also describes the chip as aimed at multitasking and digital media creation. In general terms, a shared cache and an on-chip memory controller help the cores get data quickly, which matters for editing, encoding and other work that moves a lot of data.

Who it suits

It suits someone with an LGA 1151 motherboard from the same generation who wants to refresh a system, or someone building a desktop around parts of that era. It is less relevant to anyone starting a new build on a current platform, since newer sockets and memory types are not compatible with this chip.

What to check before you buy

• Socket and chipset: confirm that your motherboard has an LGA 1151 socket made for 6th-generation Intel Core chips. Some boards need a BIOS update for certain processors.
• Memory type: make sure your board uses DDR4 or DDR3L as the listing describes, and that your existing RAM matches.
• Cooling: check whether a cooler is included in the package. Unlocked processors are often sold without one, so you may need your own.
• Power and overclocking: if you plan to overclock, look for a board and cooler that support it.
• Video output: if you rely on the integrated graphics, check that your board has a video port.

The short version

• Intel Core i7-6700K, a 6th-generation Skylake quad-core desktop processor.
• 4.00 GHz base clock, with a maximum turbo frequency of 4.20 GHz.
• Unlocked multiplier for optional overclocking on a compatible board.
• LGA 1151 socket; supports DDR4-1866/2133 and DDR3L-1333/1600 at 1.35 V, depending on the board.
• Integrated graphics that run up to 1.15 GHz.

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