Product Description
Intel processors have more variety than AMD, since some processors don't have integrated graphics, and others (like the i9-13900KS) are specially made to go faster than their other counterparts. Intel has a lot of numbers in their 13th gen processors, but generally speaking, bigger numbers mean better component. Here's a short list of what the letters in each processor means before we dive into each individual part:-F: Denotes a processor with no HD graphics. To even see your monitors, you'll need a graphics card. An -F variety chip might be interesting for gamers since they can be cheaper than their non-F counterpart, and gamers will be getting a graphics card anyway.
-K: Denotes a processor that is unlocked and ready to turbo up when a program needs it to. These are best paired with a Z-series board, like our Z790 lineup. These processors do not come with Intel coolers.
-S: Only applies to the i9-13900KS, this is just like the i9-13900K but even faster. You can think of it like a "i9-13900KK".
With that out of the way, there should be one final thing to note that separates Intel from AMD: Efficiency cores. Also called "E-Cores", these are slower processing cores with no hyperthreading that are designed to handle easier loads. AMD focuses on purely performance cores, but Intel can sneak in more multitasking capabilities at the cost of some of that multitasking being a bit slower. Surprisingly, this makes Intel more versatile and sometimes better at workloads than AMD, but when comparing Ryzen 7000 to Intel 13000, it's not easy to recommend one or the other since both are very competitive.
Core i3-13100F: 4P Cores, 0E Cores, 8 Threads. P-core speed: 3400MHz-4500MHz. Cache - 12MB. TDP - 58W-89W.
The Core i3-13100F is an interesting chip: It's powerful enough for very casual gaming and most day-to-day use, but it requires a graphics card due to not having any graphics processing whatsoever. If you pair this with a used GPU from a friend or old desktop, this can be an interesting choice.
Core i3-13100: 4P Cores, 0E Cores, 8 Threads. P-core speed: 3400MHz-4500MHz. Cache - 12MB. TDP - 60W-89W.
This is just the Core i3-13100F but with graphics. This is a great option for the budget-conscious user who wants a computer but does not need it for gaming or any other intensive use.
Core i5-13400F: 6P Cores, 4E Cores, 16 Threads. P-core speed: 2500MHz-4600MHz. E-core speed: 1800MHz-3300MHz. Cache - 20MB. TDP - 65W-148W.
More cores, with the introduction of efficiency cores. Let the E-cores handle documents and emails while the P-cores handle video decoding and gaming. This should be enough for most users who want to be sure they can handle everyday tasks easily. You'll still need a graphics processor though.
Core i5-13500: 6P Cores, 8E Cores, 20 Threads. P-core speed: 2500MHz-4800MHz. E-core speed: 1800MHz-3500MHz. Cache - 24MB. TDP - 65W-154W.
Add four more efficiency cores, a little more cache, onboard graphics, and boost the max speed of the 13400F and you get the i5-13500. This processor is already more than enough for everyday use, and it's very proficient at gaming.
Core i5-13600KF: 6P Cores, 8E Cores, 20 Threads. P-core speed: 3500MHz-5100MHz. E-core speed: 2600MHz-3900MHz. Cache - 24MB. TDP - 125W-181W.
This is a faster version of the 13500 without a cooler or onboard graphics. If you plan on getting a GPU and a heatsink or liquid cooler, this is a great processor!
Core i5-13600K: 6P Cores, 8E Cores, 20 Threads. P-core speed: 3500MHz-5100MHz. E-core speed: 2600MHz-3900MHz. Cache - 24MB. TDP - 125W-181W.
This is just the 13600KF with graphics. That's the only difference. This will still need a heatsink or liquid cooler, but you won't need a graphics card unless you're planning to game.
Core i7-13700: 8P Cores, 8E Cores, 24 Threads. P-core speed: 2100MHz-5200MHz. E-core speed: 1500MHz-4100MHz. Cache - 30MB. TDP - 65W-219W.
With onboard graphics, plenty of performance cores, efficiency cores, and high turbo speeds, this processor is great for streamers, content creators, and other power users who want to experience some of Intel's finer silicone. While this does come with a cooler, it won't fare well against this processor going into turbo, so if you get a Z790 motherboard with this processor, we recommend investing in a liquid cooler or heatsink, otherwise this chip will likely try to cook itself to death.
Core i7-13700KF: 8P Cores, 8E Cores, 24 Threads. P-core speed: 3400MHz-5300MHz. E-core speed: 2500MHz-4200MHz. Cache - 30MB. TDP - 125W-253W.
This is an unlocked 13700 without graphics. Basically, if you wanted absolute performance and you already planned on getting a good graphics card, this is an extremely valid choice. We recommend a liquid cooler at this wattage, however.
Core i7-13700K: 8P Cores, 8E Cores, 24 Threads. P-core speed: 3400MHz-5300MHz. E-core speed: 2500MHz-4200MHz. Cache - 30MB. TDP - 125W-253W.
This is the 13700K but with graphics. A bit of an interesting choice, the 13700K is valid for gamers/streamers/enthusiasts who might need to use their computer even if they're waiting to upgrade their graphics card and already sold their current one to pay for their upgrade. Office users investing in the 13700K might not see much of a performance uplift over a Core i5 in most cases, however the option is definitely there.
Please note that all Core i9 processors from here do not include coolers. You will need to select one before checkout.
Core i9-13900F: 8P Cores, 16E Cores, 32 Threads. P-core speed: 2000MHz-5200MHz. E-core speed: 1500MHz-4200MHz. Cache - 36MB. TDP - 65W-219W.
If you plan on video editing, streaming, and doing other highly core-intensive tasks, the 13900F might be a good option. Just note it does not have any graphics capabilities.
Core i9-13900KF: 8P Cores, 16E Cores, 32 Threads. P-core speed: 3000MHz-5400MHz. E-core speed: 2200MHz-4300MHz. Cache - 36MB. TDP - 125W-253W.
This is an unlocked 13900F that goes faster and generates more heat. Basically, a dream come true for any enthusiast.
Core i9-13900K: 8P Cores, 16E Cores, 32 Threads. P-core speed: 3000MHz-5400MHz. E-core speed: 2200MHz-4300MHz. Cache - 36MB. TDP - 125W-253W.
This is the 13900KF with graphics enabled.
Core i9-13900KS: 8P Cores, 16E Cores, 32 Threads. P-core speed: 3200MHz-5400MHz. E-core speed: 2400MHz-4300MHz. Cache - 36MB. TDP - 150W-253W.
You'll want a liquid cooler for this processor. Preferrably one with a 360mm radiator and all fans + the pump set to maximum speed. While we say the max speed of the P-cores is 5400MHz (5.4GHz), it can actually turbo up to 6000MHz (6.0GHz) under the right conditions. It's called "KS" because it's the special edition processor. And yes, this does come with onboard graphics.
(Pictured: The Core i9-13900KS)