Core i7-6850K
Intel
PassMark
11,376
MSRP
$617
AVG Price
$80
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Core i7-6850K is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 31 May 2016 (9 years ago). It is based on the Broadwell-E (2016) architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads. Base frequency is 3.6 GHz, with boost up to 4 GHz. L3 cache: 15 MB (total). L2 cache: 256 kB (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA2011. Thermal design power (TDP): 140 Watt. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 11,376 points. Launch price was $475.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. The Core i7-6850K is positioned at rank #827 in our cost-efficiency ranking, representing a Lower cost-benefit for your build. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core i7-6850K
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i7-6850K across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Path of Exile 2
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i7-6850K specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i7-6850K is a 6-core / 12-thread processor based on the Broadwell-E (2016) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4 GHz from a base frequency of 3.6 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 15 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256 kB (per core) of L2 cache and 32 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 11,376, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Legacy generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 1,200, while multi-core reaches 5,500.
| Specification | Core i7-6850K |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 6C / 12T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.6 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Broadwell-E (2016) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 15 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 256 kB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 32 kB (per core) |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 11,376 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 1,200 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 5,500 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i7-6850K fits into the LGA2011 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 40 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 128 GB across 4 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: None — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i7-6850K |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA2011 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 40 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2400 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 128 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 4 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | None |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | X99 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
The Core i7-6850K is primarily designed for HEDT. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Core i7-6850K |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | HEDT |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x, VT-d |
Power & Cooling
The Core i7-6850K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 140 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Liquid Cooler.
| Specification | Core i7-6850K |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 140 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | None |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Liquid Cooler |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $80 (MSRP: $617), the Core i7-6850K delivers 142 PassMark points per dollar. It currently holds Rank #827 in the overall cost-benefit ranking — this ranking factors in performance-per-dollar relative to all available processors. Performance ranking position: #1216 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i7-6850K |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $617 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $80 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $475 |
| Cost-Benefit RankPosition in overall value ranking | #827 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1216 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 31 May 2016 (9 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2016 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
Intel (12)
AMD (12)
Our Recommendation for Core i7-6850K
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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