Intel Core i5-8650K socket: LGA 1151
The Intel Core i5-8650K uses the LGA 1151 socket, second revision. It runs on Z370 and Z390 boards as an unlocked 95 W six core for tuning with UHD Graphics 630.
- Socket
- LGA 1151
- Launched
- September 2018
- Cores and threads
- 6 and 6
- Base power
- 95 W
- Codename
- Coffee Lake
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 3.7 / 4.5 GHz
Intel Core i5-8650K specifications
| Cores | 6 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 6 |
| Core architecture | Coffee Lake |
| Clocks | 3.7 GHz base, up to 4.5 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 9 MB L3 (shared) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 95 W |
| Manufacturing process | 14 nm |
| Memory support | DDR4 up to 2666 MT/s, two channels |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 16 lanes from the CPU |
| Integrated graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | FCLGA1151 |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i5-8650K needs a motherboard with a LGA 1151 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 300 series: B365 and Z390 | Z390, B365 | Works out of the box |
| 300 series: H310, B360, H370, Q370, Z370 | Z370, H370, B360, H310, Q370 | Works out of the box |
| 200 series | Z270, H270, B250, Q270, Q250 | Not supported |
| 100 series | Z170, H170, B150, H110, Q170, Q150 | Not supported |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1151.
LGA 1151 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,151 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | August 2015 |
| Memory | DDR4 on most boards (some early boards use DDR3L). DDR4 only on the second revision |
| Cooler mounting holes | 75 × 75 mm |
What the Core i5-8650K is
The Core i5-8650K is a six core, six thread desktop processor with a 3.7 GHz base and up to 4.5 GHz turbo. It carries 9 MB of shared L3 cache and a 95 W TDP on the 14 nm process. The TechPowerUp database lists part number SR3WY with a September 1, 2018 release and an unlocked multiplier.
The K suffix marks free multiplier adjustment for overclocking on Z series boards, which is the whole point of the SKU. It sits 100 MHz above the 8600K base with a higher turbo in the same 95 W band. Manual tuning can push all core clocks past stock where cooling allows.
UHD Graphics 630 covers setup displays without a separate card, though most buyers pair this chip with a discrete card. ECC is listed as not supported. The 95 W rating asks for a real tower cooler rather than a stock unit.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 8650K fits LGA 1151 revision 2, and tuning needs a Z370 or Z390 board that unlocks the multiplier. H310 and B360 boards boot the chip but leave overclocking off. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide explains the two revisions of this socket.
It does not fit 100 or 200 series boards, which are revision 1 for 6th and 7th Gen chips. Z series buyers should confirm the board CPU list names the 8650K and update the BIOS before swapping from an older chip. Power stages with heatsinks handle sustained tuned loads better.
A Z390 board with good voltage regulation suits this SKU where tuning is planned. Budget Z370 boards boot it but may throttle under long all core loads. The Intel Core i5-8600K is a nearby unlocked six core with wider listings at slightly lower clocks.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR4 in two channels at up to 2666 MT/s, with about 42.7 GB per sec of bandwidth. ECC is listed as not supported. Tuners often run faster kits past the rated speed where the board allows it, with two matched sticks for dual channel speed.
PCI Express arrives as version 3.0 with 16 lanes from the CPU for graphics and storage. A single fast card gets the full x16 link in most builds. Cooling uses the shared 75 mm LGA 1151 pattern at 95 W, so a large tower or liquid loop suits tuned operation.
Upgrade paths
On the same socket the step up is a six core twelve thread chip such as the Intel Core i7-8700K where threaded throughput matters, keeping the board and DDR4. The 8650K keeps its place where unlocked six cores cover play and light creation. Gamers on this chip usually upgrade the graphics card before the processor.
Moving past LGA 1151 to LGA 1200 needs a new board, since no 8th Gen chip fits the newer socket. Tuners usually keep the board and cooler through one more graphics upgrade first.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i5-8650K use?
It uses LGA 1151 revision 2, with tuning on Z370 and Z390 boards. It does not work on 100 or 200 series boards.
How many cores does the 8650K have?
Six cores and six threads at 3.7 GHz base with up to 4.5 GHz turbo, with 9 MB of cache at 95 W.
Is the 8650K unlocked?
Yes, the multiplier is unlocked for overclocking on Z series boards. H310 and B360 boards boot the chip without tuning.
What memory does the 8650K support?
DDR4 up to 2666 MT/s in two channels. ECC is listed as not supported.
How does the 8650K differ from the Core i5-8600K?
The Intel Core i5-8600K runs 3.6 GHz base with up to 4.3 GHz turbo on the same boards. The 8650K adds 100 MHz base and a higher turbo.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i5-8650K specs (TechPowerUp CPU database)
- Intel Core Processors i5-8400 to i5-8650K MDDS (Intel)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .