Intel Core i7-8700T Processor (Tray, CM8068403358413): what it fits

The Intel Core i7-8700T (order code CM8068403358413) is an 8th-generation desktop processor sold in tray packaging. It is a component for building or upgrading a PC, not a finished product. The listing is brief, so this page covers what the name and packaging generally mean and what to confirm before fitting one.

What the name tells you

Intel's naming follows a pattern. "Core i7" is the performance tier, the "8" in 8700 marks the 8th generation, and the suffix "T" marks a power-optimised model. In general, T-series desktop chips are designed to run at a lower rated power than the standard versions, which makes them popular in compact desktops, small-form-factor business PCs and quiet or fanless-style builds where heat is the main limit.

The trade-off is usually clock speed. A lower-power chip normally runs at lower base clocks than its standard sibling, although it can still raise its speed for short bursts when there is thermal room. Intel publishes the exact figures for the 8700T on its product pages, and it is worth checking them against your needs, since the listing itself gives none.

What "tray" packaging means

A tray processor is supplied without the retail box and, as a rule, without a cooler. It is typically sold to system builders and integrators in bulk, and the listing's own wording describes it as a "Processor Tray" with a package quantity of one. The listing gives a country of origin of China and package dimensions of 18 x 18 x 18 cm.

Practically, this means:

• You will need your own CPU cooler, which should be rated for the chip's power class.
• Thermal paste is not necessarily included.
• Warranty terms for tray parts can differ from boxed retail ones, so it is worth checking with the seller.

Where it fits

Desktop processors from this generation use a particular socket, and they work only with compatible motherboards. In general, 8th-generation Core chips use the LGA1151 socket and need a 300-series chipset board, so an older 100- or 200-series board may not accept it even though the socket looks the same, and a newer board generation won't either. Always check the motherboard maker's CPU support list for this exact model, along with any BIOS version that is required for it.

Because it is a lower-power part, it suits small PCs, mini desktops and office machines that were designed around T-series chips. It may be a sensible match where the case, cooler or power supply is limited. For a large gaming tower, a standard-power chip would normally run faster.

Integrated graphics

Most Core i7 desktop chips of this generation include integrated Intel graphics, which means that a machine can drive a monitor without a separate graphics card. This is useful for office, media and general-use PCs. If you want to play demanding games or do graphics-heavy work, you would still add a separate card. Check Intel's specification page to confirm the graphics details for this model.

Handling and installation

Processors are sensitive to static and to bent socket pins. Hold the chip by its edges, install it with the motherboard out of the case or well supported, match the corner marker to the socket, and apply the cooler following its instructions. The dimensions in the listing refer to the packaging, so use the manufacturer's data for the processor itself.

Who it suits

It suits people building or refreshing a compact, low-heat desktop, and technicians repairing or upgrading systems that were designed for a T-series chip.

What to check before you buy

• Motherboard support: confirm the exact chipset and BIOS version support the Core i7-8700T.
• Cooler: plan to supply a compatible cooler and thermal paste.
• Case and power limits: check that your case airflow and power supply suit the chip's rated power class.
• Packaging and warranty: tray parts have no retail box, so confirm what warranty applies.
• Specifications: read Intel's page for clocks, cache and graphics, since the listing provides none.

The short version

• Intel Core i7-8700T, an 8th-generation desktop processor, in tray packaging.
• The T suffix generally marks a lower-power design for compact or quiet builds.
• Supplied without a retail box, and typically without a cooler.
• Needs a compatible motherboard and BIOS.
• The listing gives few specifications, so check Intel's data sheet.

Bloiq is reader-supported. Some links may earn us a commission; it never affects what we write. How we make money.