Intel Core i7-8700K

Intel finally expanded the core count of its mainstream processors, facilitating solid all-around performance from the Core i7-8700K. Aggressive Turbo Boost bins ensure great performance in lightly-threaded workloads, while six cores cut through demanding tasks much more adeptly than Core i7-7700K. Intel’s Core i7 line-up is still expensive, but you'll pay a lot less per core than in prior generations.

The 40th-anniversary Core i7-8086K is appealing to collectors due to its limited-edition status. It's also a solid choice if you're on the hunt for the utmost in gaming and overclocking performance (and are willing to pay a hefty premium for it).

The HyperX Predator 4x 8GB DDR4-3333 is a highly-capable kit that should attract buyers who are trying to avoid the RGB trend. But if you're after a bargain, there are better options on that front.

With high clocks and hexa-core design, Intel's top eighth-generation/"Coffee Lake" desktop CPU impresses as a mainstream "do-it-all" processor. It's an excellent gamer, too, when paired with a high-end video card.

Great pricing makes the Z370M Pro4 a good option for Core i3-8350K overclockers, but those with higher-end CPUs or a need for speedy external storage should look elsewhere.

Builders and overclockers who want a moderately high-end board (and who can do without front-panel USB 3.1 Gen2 or Wi-Fi) will find good value in the ROG Strix Z370-F Gaming.

The Core i5-8600K leverages its extra two cores to great effect in threaded workloads, offering a substantial boost over its predecessor while aggressive Turbo Boost bins ensure great performance in lightly-threaded workloads. An easy overclocking experience, paired with excellent gaming performance that rivals previous-generation Core i7 models, will make the Core i5 series a heavily sought after processor for enthusiasts.

The i7-8700K may lack a couple of cores compared to the Ryzen 7 1800X, but it’s certainly no slowcoach if your main priority is gaming. In fact, since it’s cheaper than the Ryzen it’s actually a better choice for most people as long as you don’t already have a compatible motherboard since you’ll need a new one for the 8700K.

For years, Intel has been the establishment of PC enthusiasts. To stretch the current British political metaphor, it was ‘many cores for the few’ people who had enough cash to buy a high-end processor and ultra-expensive motherboard.