Intel Core i7-2600K vs Intel Core i7-6700K

The Intel Core i7-2600K (Sandy Bridge S architecture, Q1 2011) and the Intel Core i7-6700K (Skylake S architecture, Q3 2015) were both aimed at enthusiasts.

The Intel Core i7-2600K is manufactured using the 32 nm process, has 4 cores, 8 threads, 1 MB L2 and 8 MB L3 cache. It supports PCIe 2.0, 17 GB/s memory bandwidth, and integrates Intel HD Graphics 3000 with a 95W TDP. The Intel Core i7-6700K, on the other hand, is manufactured using the more efficient 14 nm process, also offers 4 cores and 8 threads, 0 MB L2 and 8 MB L3 cache.

It supports PCIe 3.0, achieves 34 GB/s memory bandwidth, and integrates Intel HD Graphics 530 with a 91W TDP. In performance tests, the Intel Core i7-6700K shows a noticeable superiority over the Intel Core i7-2600K in both single-core and multi-core performance (over 10 percent). For gaming scenarios, the Intel Core i7-6700K is the better choice, thanks to higher single-core performance, improved IPC, and PCIe 3.0 support.

The Intel Core i7-2600K is limited in modern titles. Both are available used. The Intel Core i7-2600K is very inexpensive and offers an affordable entry for simple applications. The Intel Core i7-6700K delivers significantly improved overall performance and energy efficiency for a higher price.

For modern applications and gaming, the Intel Core i7-6700K is the superior choice. For systems with a very limited budget, the Intel Core i7-2600K may still be sufficient.