Quick, what does your computer processor do? If you don’t know the technical answer to that question, your first instinct may be to say “everything.” That’s certainly the popular perception of the functionality of the modern processor. The funny thing about that definition is that it’s not that far off. Your processor basically keeps all the other components in your computer in line. It tells them what to do and helps optimize their performance. It takes a program’s commands and translates it in such a way that allows the other parts of your computer to understand them. You know when you’re in a state of workflow zen and you’re able to bounce from task to task confidently and effectively? A good processor should make your workflow as easy as possible. On the other hand, a bad processor is a lot like that manager you had that talks a big game then hides in their office when it’s time to really get it done. You know the one I’m talking about. If you want to do a technical breakdown, you’ll find that the Core i7-8700K has all the right numbers in all the right places. This CPU features six cores, 3.70 GHz processor base frequency, 8 GT/s bus speed, and 12 threads, giving you the powerhouse you need to run multiple tasks or play high-end games that are demanding on your system. At the end of the day, though, you want to know what those numbers are actually going to do for you. After all, a computer processor is all about getting things done. Read More: PC Gaming Innovations That Changed the Way We Play So far as that goes, the first thing you may notice about the i7 is how much easier it is to multitask once you have it installed. You may think of multitasking as something you put on your resume to sound impressive, but that’s not quite true. In this case, multitasking can refer to switching between Photoshop and the YouTube video you’re watching or even just jumping from window to window. As we said, your computer’s processor is primarily responsible for ensuring that multiple components are doing what they’re supposed to be doing. It’s appropriate, then, that one of the most obvious benefits you’ll notice from utilizing a high-quality processor like this is how much easier it is for you to ensure that multiple programs are running optimally and doing what you need them to do. But you’re not just here for work. We’re betting that you’re interested in upgrading your computer’s processor because you want to be able to easily run the best new games and experience high-quality streaming. This processor will handle those performance demands with ease, even if you’re gaming at 4K resolution and on Ultra settings. This is where the i7-8700k gets to flex some of its most impressive technical muscles. If you wonder why PC gamers always harp about being able to run a game above 60 FPS, this is the processor that will open your eyes to a new world of possibilities. Read More: 25 PC Games That Changed History Need more from your processor than the numbers on the box? The i7 is designed with overclockers in mind. When overclocked — running a component at a higher speed than intended by its manufacturer — you’ll find that this CPU is not only capable of reaching exciting benchmarks but that the integrity of the component holds up well so long as you support it with proper cooling. The great thing about the i7-8700K, though, is that expert processes like overlocking are entirely optional. It’s plenty powerful on its own. What does your computer’s processor do? It’s the beating heart of your rig. Or, if that’s too metaphorical for you, it’s the component that you’ll come to depend on the most when it comes to running your PC at peak efficiency. To read the complete PC Building series, click the links below: Part 2: CPU Cooler Part 3: Power Supply Part 4: Motherboard Part 5: CPU Part 6: Memory Part 8: Graphics Matthew Byrd is a staff writer for Den of Geek. He spends most of his days trying to pitch deep-dive analytical pieces about Killer Klowns From Outer Space to an increasingly perturbed series of editors. You can read more of his work here or find him on Twitter at @SilverTuna014.
