As CPUs like the Core i7-9700KF get more powerful and power-hungry, understanding the TDP of computer components becomes increasingly important. As experienced PC builders, we recognize that a CPU's TDP is a critical factor to consider when building a computer or upgrading your existing system. You can use the CPU's TDP to help determine which cooler and power supply are appropriate for your build. This can ensure optimal performance and stability while minimizing the risk of overheating.

In this article, we will provide an in-depth explanation of the TDP of the 9700KF CPU, including its TDP rating and comparisons with other models. Additionally, we will provide recommendations for compatible CPU coolers, power supplies, and computer cases to meet the needs of the 9700KF CPU's TDP.

The Core i7-9700KF has a TDP of 95 watts.

This TDP means that the 9700KF CPU will consume a maximum of 95 watts of power (PL1) at its max base frequency of 3.60 GHz.

The Core i7-9700KF can reach 119 watts (PL2) when reaching the 4.90 GHz max turbo frequency.

The TDP of the Core i7-9700KF processor can also be defined as PL1, which is the effective long-term expected steady-state power consumption of a processor. PL2 is a processor's short-term maximum power draw when the CPU runs at its maximum short-term speed (max turbo frequency).

Intel CPU specifications indicate this power dissipation number as "Processor Base Power."

The chart below compares the TDP ratings of the Intel Core i7-9700KF with that of other popular CPUs in the market. This data can help determine the energy efficiency of a CPU. It is worth noting that TDP is not a direct indicator of a CPU's average power consumption. Still, it can be a valuable metric to compare similar processors.

Thermal Design Power (TDP) is a unit expressed in watts that measures the amount of heat a cooling system, such as a heatsink or fan, needs to dissipate to avoid overheating. The base TDP indicates the power consumption of a CPU at its base frequency. The turbo boost TDP (PL2) is the power consumption at its maximum turbo boost frequencies. The power consumption is typically lower than the base TDP when not under a heavy load. Designing the system around the turbo boost TDP ensures that it operates within the specifications under the highest theoretical workload.

The importance of TDP in CPU performance is that it determines the cooler required for the CPU to operate correctly. If the CPU cooler is inadequate, the CPU will throttle its performance to prevent damage from overheating.

Factors that affect the TDP of CPUs like the Intel Core i7-9700KF include the CPU's frequency, the number of cores, and the voltage required to run the CPU. Turbo boosting, overclocking, or underclocking can all affect the effective TDP of the CPU.

For system builders, understanding the TDP of a CPU, such as the Intel Core i7-9700KF, is critical in choosing the right CPU cooler. A CPU with a high TDP will require a more robust cooler, such as a liquid cooling system, to prevent overheating. On the other hand, a CPU with a low TDP may be adequately cooled by a simple air cooler. Read more about CPU coolers below, along with our recommended coolers.

In addition to choosing the right CPU cooler, system builders must choose a proper power supply (PSU). A power supply with a high enough wattage rating is necessary for the CPU's max power usage, which can be determined by the TDP, to operate correctly. Read more about power supplies below, along with our recommended PSUs.

Proper airflow and case design are also essential to consider for system builders. Adequate airflow is necessary to remove the heat generated by the CPU, while a well-designed case will ensure that the airflow is directed where it is needed most. Read more about PC cases below, along with our recommended PC cases.

When building a system with a CPU such as the Intel Core i7-9700KF, it's crucial to select a suitable power supply to ensure that the CPU operates correctly and stably. The power supply must provide sufficient power to the system components, including the CPU, without running out of power or causing system instability.

The TDP of the Core i7-9700KF is an excellent way to determine the power supply's wattage requirement. The TDP indicates the CPU's power to draw under a heavy load at its max base speed. Too low of a wattage rating in a power supply can result in power throttling, which can cause the CPU to slow down, impacting performance. It's also important to note that the TDP only represents the CPU's power consumption, and other components, such as the graphics card, RAM, and storage devices, also require power.

The Core i7-9700KF has a base TDP of 95 watts. When the Core i7-9700KF is turbo boosting it can use up to 119 watts, which means that the power supply should be rated to deliver at least 119 watts to the CPU alone.

When selecting a power supply, it's also important to consider other factors such as efficiency, reliability, and noise level. A high-quality power supply with a high-efficiency rating will provide stable power, save energy, and reduce heat output. Choosing a reliable power supply from a reputable manufacturer can also ensure that the system runs smoothly for an extended period without any hardware issues.

To learn more about purchasing a power supply for your system with the 9700KF CPU, check out our other article, Choosing the Best Power Supply for Intel's Core i7-9700KF CPU

The Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 ATX 3.0 Power Supply on Amazon (affiliate link) is our recommended 750-1650 watt ATX 3.0 PSU.

GOLD 80 PLUS efficiency ratings.

ATX 3.0 standard for supporting newer graphics cards.

Fully modular cabling allows you to optimize airflow and minimize clutter.

Ultra quiet design.

10-year warranty.

This series of power supplies comes in power outputs including 750, 850, 1000, 1200, 1350 and 1650 watts. Thermaltake Toughpower GF3 Series 80+ Gold Full Modular ATX 3.0 PCIe Gen 5 Power Supply Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link

The Corsair SF Series Power Supply on Amazon (affiliate link) is our recommended 650–1000 watt PSU.

Gold 80 PLUS efficiency ratings.

Fully modular cabling allows you to optimize airflow and minimize clutter.

Near silent during low usage.

10-year warranty.

This series of power supplies comes in power outputs including 650, 750, 850, and 1000 watts. EVGA SuperNOVA G5 Series Fully Modular Power Supply (220-G5-0650-X1) Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link

When it comes to choosing the best CPU cooler for the Intel Core i7-9700KF CPU, it is essential to consider the TDP of the processor. TDP refers to the maximum heat a CPU generates under typical operating conditions. CPUs with a higher TDP tend to be more powerful and require a more robust CPU cooler to prevent overheating, thermal throttling, reduced system performance, and even permanent damage to the CPU.

Regarding cooling the Core i7-9700KF, there are two main types to choose from: air cooling and liquid cooling. Air cooling is the most common type and involves using a heatsink and fan to dissipate heat from the CPU. Air coolers come in various sizes and designs, with larger models typically offering better cooling performance. However, they can be noisy and bulky, which may concern some people.

On the other hand, liquid cooling involves circulating a liquid coolant through a series of pipes and a radiator to remove heat from the CPU. Liquid coolers are more expensive than air coolers but offer superior cooling performance and are generally quieter. Additionally, liquid coolers come in all-in-one (AIO) and custom loop configurations, making AIO models easier to install.

When selecting a CPU cooler for the Core i7-9700KF CPU, choosing one with a high enough TDP rating to handle the processor's thermal output is essential. Ideally, the cooler should have a TDP rating equal to or greater than the CPU's turbo boost TDP (PL2). Additionally, it should be compatible with the motherboard's socket type and fit within the case dimensions.

For reference, the Core i7-9700KF has a TDP of 95 watts and when turbo boosting it has a TDP of up to 119 watts.

To learn more about purchasing a CPU cooler for your system with the 9700KF CPU, check out our other article, Choosing the Best CPU Cooler for Intel's Core i7-9700KF

When selecting a computer case for a Intel Core i7-9700KF CPU, it's important to consider the CPU's thermal design power (TDP), which indicates the amount of heat the CPU can generate under load. The higher the TDP of the CPU, the more heat it will produce, and the more crucial proper airflow becomes.

A computer case with good airflow is necessary to remove heat from the CPU and other components, such as the graphics card and power supply unit. This airflow can be achieved through various means, including the number and placement of case fans, the size and location of vents or mesh panels, and liquid coolers.

In addition to airflow, the case's design can also impact cooling performance. A well-designed case will ensure that the airflow is directed where needed most, such as over the CPU and other components. The case should also be spacious enough to accommodate large heatsinks or liquid cooling radiators if necessary and have cable management options to prevent clutter and improve airflow.

To learn more about purchasing a PC case for your system with the 9700KF CPU, check out our other article, How to Choose the Best PC Case (2023)

Tempered glass on the front and side.

Motherboard form factors: E-ATX, ATX, Micro-ATX.

Supports six 2.5" SSDs or three 2.5" SSDs + three 3.5" HDDs.

Fits up to three 360 mm radiators. Lian Li 011 Dynamic Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link

Tempered glass on one side with a steel front panel grille.

ATX motherboard form factor.

Fits up to three 360 mm radiators, in addition to other combinations.

Supports vertically mounting a graphics card.

Supports ten 2.5" SSDs or four 2.5" SSDs + six 3.5" HDDs. Corsair 7000D Airflow Check Price on Amazon Amazon Affiliate Link

Want to brush up on other new technologies to consider when building a computer? Check out these articles:

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