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Intel Core i7 6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake Desktop Processor, Socket LGA 1151 [BX80662I76700K]
Intel

Intel Core i7 6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake Desktop Processor, Socket LGA 1151 [BX80662I76700K]

Bottom line: The Intel Core i7 6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake Desktop ($198.08 on Amazon as of 2026-10-21 10:15 UTC): Unlocked K-series multiplier for straightforward overclocking on Z-series boards; main trade-off: four cores only, well behind modern 8-16 core desktop chips.

$198.08

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Buy on Amazon — $198.08 Compare to similar processors

By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014, focused on GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference. Synthesises community benchmarks, manufacturer specs, and public forum data into actionable buying guides.

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-21. Price and availability subject to change.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Unlocked K-series multiplier for straightforward overclocking on Z-series boards
  • ✓ 4.00 GHz base clock across four Skylake cores
  • ✓ Integrated Intel HD graphics boots a build with no discrete GPU
  • ✓ Intel Smart Cache speeds repeat data access in multi-threaded work

Cons

  • ✗ Four cores only, well behind modern 8-16 core desktop chips
  • ✗ LGA 1151 is a dead-end socket with no upgrade path left
  • ✗ Overclocking requires a Z-series chipset, not H or B boards
  • ✗ No cooler in the box on most listings, budget for one separately

Manufacturer description

Go to the next level of multi-core performance Intel smart cache. 6th Generation Intel Core i7 Processors Intel Quick Path interconnect

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored Intel Core i7 6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake Desktop… using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the processors category. Intel's processors lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for processors of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What socket does the Intel Core i7-6700K use?

It uses Socket LGA 1151. Confirm your motherboard is LGA 1151 with a 100-series or 200-series chipset before ordering.

Can I overclock the i7-6700K?

Yes, it is an unlocked K-series chip with a 4.00 GHz base clock and free multiplier. You need a Z-series chipset motherboard to change the multiplier.

Does the i7-6700K come with a cooler?

Intel's K-series parts typically ship without a stock cooler. Check the specific listing for contents, and plan on a separate CPU cooler.

Do I need a graphics card with this processor?

No. Intel HD integrated graphics are built in, so the system will post and run a display without a discrete GPU, though a dedicated card is better for gaming.

Is the i7-6700K still worth buying in 2026?

It makes sense for repairing or upgrading an existing LGA 1151 build. It is well regarded, but a new build should start on a current platform.

What is the warranty on this processor?

Warranty terms vary by seller and whether the unit is boxed retail or used. Check the product listing for current warranty coverage before you buy.

Key Features

  • Go to the next level of multi-core performance
  • Intel smart cache. 6th Generation Intel Core i7 Processors
  • Intel Quick Path interconnect
  • Integrated memory controller
  • Intel HD boost

Full Specifications

BrandIntel
Model4512
WarrantyLimited warranty; 3 years warranty
UnitCount1
ManufacturerIntel
IsAdultProductfalse
ItemPartNumberBX80662I76700K

Ready to buy?

Intel Core i7 6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake Desktop Processor, Socket LGA 1151 [BX80662I76700K] is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

Buy on Amazon — $198.08

*Price sourced from Amazon.com. Last updated 2026-10-21. Price and availability subject to change.

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Intel Core i7 6700K 4.00 GHz Unlocked Quad Core Skylake Desktop Processor, Socket LGA 1151 [BX80662I76700K]
$198.08
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