AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D 12-Core Processor vs Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up
Updated August 2026 — AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D 12-Core Processor wins on technology and performance, Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up wins on price.
The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D offers superior performance for gamers and content creators, while the Intel Core i7-8700K is a more budget-friendly option.
Why AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D 12-Core Processor is better
Core Count
12 cores vs 6 cores
Performance
Better for multitasking and heavy workloads
Technology
2nd gen AMD 3D V-Cache™ Technology
Why Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up is better
Price
Significantly cheaper at $185.37
Compatibility
Compatible with Intel 300 Series motherboards
Graphics
Includes Intel UHD Graphics 630
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D 12-Core Processor | Intel Core i7-8700K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | AMD | Intel |
| Price | $569.00 | $185.37 |
| Cores | 12 | 6 |
| Threads | 12 | 12 |
| Max Turbo | 4.5 GHz | 4.7 GHz |
| Cache | N/A | 12 MB |
Dimension comparison
Overview of the Processors
The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D is a high-performance 12-core processor designed for gamers and content creators, while the Intel Core i7-8700K offers solid performance with its 6 cores and turbo capabilities. The Ryzen 9 9900X3D is priced at $569.00, making it a premium option, whereas the i7-8700K is significantly more affordable at $185.37, which is about 67% cheaper than its competitor.
Performance Capabilities
When it comes to raw performance, the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D stands out with its 12 cores, providing exceptional multitasking capabilities for gaming and content creation. The 2nd gen AMD 3D V-Cache™ Technology enhances its performance significantly, making it ideal for demanding workloads. In contrast, the Intel Core i7-8700K, with 6 cores and a max turbo frequency of 4.7 GHz, still delivers impressive speed for gaming but may struggle with more intensive tasks compared to the Ryzen 9 9900X3D.
Gaming Experience
Both processors promise excellent gaming experiences, but the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D is particularly tailored for gamers who want optimal performance across a range of titles. Its 12 cores allow for smoother gameplay, especially in modern games that utilize multiple threads. The Intel Core i7-8700K also offers a great gaming experience, with its turbo capabilities allowing it to reach high speeds, but it may not handle as many simultaneous processes as effectively as the Ryzen 9 9900X3D.
Content Creation and Productivity
For content creators, the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D is the superior choice due to its higher core count and advanced technology. It can handle video editing, streaming, and other resource-intensive tasks more efficiently. The Intel Core i7-8700K is still a capable processor for content creation but may not deliver the same level of performance under heavy workloads, which could impact efficiency for creators who manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Price Comparison
The price difference between the two processors is substantial. The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D is priced at $569.00, while the Intel Core i7-8700K is available for only $185.37. This means that the Intel processor is about 67% less expensive than the AMD option, making it a more budget-friendly choice for users who do not require the highest level of performance.
Compatibility and Features
The Intel Core i7-8700K is compatible exclusively with motherboards based on Intel 300 Series chipsets, while the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D can be used with a broader range of motherboards, providing more flexibility for users looking to upgrade. Additionally, the Ryzen features advanced technology that enhances its gaming and multitasking capabilities, while the i7-8700K comes with Intel UHD Graphics 630, which may be sufficient for light gaming and everyday tasks.
User Experience and Community Engagement
The Intel Core i7-8700K is noted for its ability to facilitate outstanding gaming experiences, particularly in terms of sharing gameplay through live-streaming or recording. This makes it appealing for gamers focused on community engagement. The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D, while also capable of these tasks, focuses more on delivering extreme performance, which may overshadow community interaction features.
Which should you buy?
Choosing between the AMD Ryzen 9 9900X3D and the Intel Core i7-8700K ultimately depends on your specific needs and budget. If you are a serious gamer or content creator who demands the best performance, the Ryzen 9 9900X3D is worth the investment at $569.00. However, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly processor that still offers solid gaming capabilities, the Intel Core i7-8700K at $185.37 is a great option that won't break the bank.

