9700K priced at $200
9700K priced at $200
Many people likely recognize the 9700K and 9900K as 200 and 300 models available at MicroCenter. What are your opinions? Is this a moment this year when I can include Intel in my PCP list? https://www.microcenter.com/product/5124...-processor
You're looking for a motherboard and CPU that won't allow upgrades.
They're only worthwhile with a Z390 motherboard. If you manage to find one with a solid VRM cooling fan for around $80, that's a great offer. Until then, Intel needs to match AMD's 8-core CPUs at $300 and B450 boards that support overclocking for under $100. Don't forget the 10700K is roughly $300, essentially the same as the i9 but using a newer socket. Just a better value. Edited November 20, 2020 by Fasauceome
If you're mainly focused on gaming, a $200 CPU price tag sounds like a solid offer—especially when you locate a suitable motherboard. In Canada, the 9700k is listed at $340, making it an attractive option.
They are claimed to be surplus inventory, yet Intel CPUs typically rise in value when they’re replaced, not fall. For instance, the 7700K never dropped below $300 as a typical retail price, even though its core count was quickly surpassed by newer models. It’s plausible Intel would keep manufacturing coffee lake chips, given their 14nm process and limited demand for the 10th generation, so OEM orders should remain steady. This mirrors the situation with the 1600AF—AMD kept selling it enthusiastically but eventually shifted to 12nm to stay competitive.
AMD is also making moves in this space, and the AMD Ryzen 5000 lineup marks the final chapter for the AM4 platform (it's been five years already). Both are outdated systems, though Intel has a reputation for frequently updating their chipset designs every couple of years.
Platform remains a closed end, similar to AM4 now. Upgrades won’t be common among users either. The 9700k for $200 fits alongside the 3600x at the same price point. Both boards offer space for future upgrades—9700k to 9900k and 3600x to more options. I’d choose the 9700k for $200, plan to upgrade later, and stick with it. If I opted for the 3600x, I’d likely wait a few generations before changing again, making the upgrade path irrelevant. Much focus is given to "dead end" boards, but outside niche circles, most people don’t switch platforms meaningfully, even if they last longer. Of course, someone might use a 3600 for six years and then jump to a 5600x, but realistically, the 9700k at $200 is a solid choice.
they paid 10700k for 200 usd today, the 9700k seems to be near end-of-life now, and I wouldn't expect to get the 9900k over 5600x for 300 usd under any circumstances—it's really a small deal. If you need a computer right away, go for it; it's not the worst option.