Contents
Intro
If you’re wondering what socket does i7 6700K use, you’re not alone! Many tech enthusiasts and builders want to know whether this processor can fit their desired motherboard. In this article, I’m diving deep into the specifications, features, and everything you need to understand about the Intel Core i7-6700K. Let’s explore its technical details, so you can make informed decisions for your next build or upgrade!
General Specifications

Processor Name
First things first, let’s talk about the Intel Core i7-6700K. This beast is part of Intel’s popular lineup, known for its performance in both gaming and productivity tasks.
Generation
The i7-6700K is a 6th Generation processor, falling under Intel’s Skylake architecture. This means it brings significant advancements over previous generations, especially in terms of efficiency and speed.
Cores and Threads
When it comes to multitasking, this processor shines with 4 cores and 8 threads. This capability is crucial if you’re running demanding applications. I’ve personally found this combo pretty great for both gaming and professional work—whether it’s video editing or software development.
Clock Speed
The clock speed is where things get really exciting. The base clock speed is set at 4.0 GHz, with the potential to boost up to 4.20 GHz. That’s pretty snappy and can really improve your workflow.
Cache Size
The 8 MB Intel Smart Cache allows for efficient data access. It’s essential for keeping performance high, especially when juggling multiple tasks.
Thermal Design Power (TDP)
With a TDP of 91 watts, this processor strikes a decent balance between power consumption and performance. You’ll want to consider this when choosing a cooler, especially if you’re planning to overclock.
Technical Features

Integrated Graphics
Another handy feature is the integrated Intel HD Graphics 530. Not all builds require a dedicated GPU, and if you’re on a budget, I’ve seen many users operate smoothly using just this integrated option.
Socket Type
Now onto the heart of our discussion—what socket does i7 6700K use? The answer is the LGA 1151 socket. This is crucial information if you’re building a system or upgrading, as you’ll need a compatible motherboard.
Memory Support
Memory is a key component of any build, and the i7-6700K supports both DDR4 and DDR3L memory types.
– Maximum Memory Size: 64 GB—plenty for most power users.
– Maximum Memory Bandwidth: 34.1 GB/s—super fast.
– Number of Memory Channels: 2—allowing for dual-channel configurations, so you can get the most performance out of your RAM.
Additional Processor Features
Hyper-Threading
Hyper-Threading technology is a fantastic addition. This technology helps make the most out of your multi-core CPU by allowing it to handle more threads simultaneously. For me, it’s a game changer—especially when working with software that can utilize those extra threads.
Virtualization Technology
The i7-6700K comes with Intel’s VT-x and VT-d virtualization technology. This is super useful if you’re into virtual machines or need to run multiple operating systems.
Instruction Set Extensions
This processor supports several instruction set extensions, including 64-bit, Intel SSE4.1/4.2, AVX, AVX2, and TSX. It’s important to consider these features when looking at performance with specific applications.
Overclocking Support
One of the main selling points of the K-series processors is overclocking capability. Yes, the i7-6700K is unlocked, meaning you can take it beyond its stock performance—if you have a good cooling solution. I like to tinker with my CPU settings to get that extra boost in gaming and rendering.
Conclusion
Thanks for sticking around to learn more about the i7-6700K! If you have any questions or thoughts, feel free to leave a comment, share your experiences, or check out more over at mshardwareguide.com.