Intel Core i7-860
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Core i7-860 Specifications
Core i7-860 Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Core i7-860 features 4 physical cores and 8 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.
i7-860 Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Core i7-860 benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Core i7-860 by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Core i7-860 Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the i7-860 processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Core i7-860's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Nehalem Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Core i7-860 is built on Intel's 45 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in i7-860 incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Nehalem Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Core i7-860 by Intel supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.
i7-860 Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Core i7-860 has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.
Intel Socket 1156 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Core i7-860 uses the Intel Socket 1156 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.
Intel Socket 1156 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the i7-860 define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Core i7-860 determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.
Core i7-860 Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Core i7-860 is manufactured by Intel and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Core i7-860 by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Core i7-860 Benchmark Scores
cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicoreSource
Cinebench R15 multi-core renders a complex 3D scene using all CPU threads simultaneously. This test reveals how Intel Core i7-860 performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. Higher scores mean faster render times in professional applications.
cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicoreSource
Cinebench R20 multi-core uses a scene requiring 4x more computational power than R15. This test better reflects modern CPU capabilities for professional rendering on Intel Core i7-860.
cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R20 single-core tests one thread against a more demanding scene than R15. This reveals the true single-thread rendering capability of Intel Core i7-860.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicoreSource
Cinebench R23 multi-core is the current standard for CPU rendering benchmarks with a 10-minute minimum runtime. This extended test reveals sustained performance of Intel Core i7-860 after thermal limits kick in.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Core i7-860 maintains boost clocks under continuous load.
About Intel Core i7-860
The Intel Core i7-860 still packs a respectable four‑core, eight‑thread layout that was cutting‑edge back in the Lynnfield era. With a base clock of 2.80 GHz and a turbo boost up to 3.47 GHz, the chip can sprint through single‑threaded workloads while still delivering solid scaling across all cores. In Cinebench R23 the multi‑core run hits 2,563 points, proving the architecture can hold its own in modern multi‑threaded tests despite its 45 nm roots. Its single‑core score of 361 points shows that the high boost frequency still translates to decent frame‑rates in titles that aren’t heavily threaded. The 95 W TDP keeps power draw in check for a desktop platform, especially when paired with a modest air cooler. Overall, the raw core count and boost behavior give the i7‑860 a balanced blend of speed and efficiency for legacy gaming rigs.
Memory bandwidth is a key factor for gaming, and the i7‑860’s 8 MB shared L3 cache works well with DDR2‑667/800 modules on the Socket 1156 motherboard. Although the platform is limited to dual‑channel DIMMs, the cache size helps hide latency spikes during texture streaming and physics calculations. Benchmarks like Cinebench R20 multi‑core at 1,076 points reveal that the processor can still chew through moderate workloads when paired with fast RAM. The older 45 nm process means higher leakage compared to today’s 10 nm chips, but the modest TDP keeps the system’s overall power envelope reasonable. For gamers who still run titles like “Counter‑Strike: Source” or “Skyrim” with mods, the i7‑860 delivers smooth 60 fps gameplay when coupled with a mid‑range GPU. It also shines in e‑sports titles that favor high clock speeds over sheer core count, making it a viable budget build for competitive play. In short, the memory subsystem, while not cutting‑edge, is sufficient to keep the CPU fed in most current and classic gaming scenarios.
When you factor in power consumption, the Intel i7‑860’s 95 W rating is modest for a four‑core part, meaning you won’t need a massive PSU for a retro gaming PC. Its thermal design allows for quiet cooling solutions, which is a boon for gamers who value a low‑noise environment while hunting headshots. The CPU’s performance in Cinebench R15 multi‑core at 258 points and single‑core at 151 points may look low on paper, but those scores translate to playable frame‑rates in older DirectX 9/10 titles. The chip’s architecture is well‑suited for CPU‑bound games that rely on high per‑core instructions per cycle, such as “Bioshock” or “Crysis” when run at reduced settings. It also pairs nicely with a solid‑state drive, as the fast storage mitigates any bottlenecks from the older memory controller. While it won’t compete with modern Ryzen or Alder Lake parts in raw throughput, the i7‑860 remains a cost‑effective heart for a nostalgic gaming rig that still cranks out respectable performance. In the end, the combination of core/thread balance, decent boost clocks, and manageable power draw makes this classic processor a hidden gem for budget‑focused gamers.
The AMD Equivalent of Core i7-860
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 7 1700 offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
Popular Intel Core i7-860 Comparisons
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