Due to the past month’s plethora of processor releases, consumers have difficulty choosing processors. For that reason, we’re looking at Intel’s latest Raptor Lake processors. Because most of the competition exists in the mid-range segment, the Intel i7-13700K Vs Intel i5-13600K processors will be our target today. For higher end upgrades, we recommend you go through difference between i9-13900k Vs i7-13700K.
Although the Intel i7-13700K is probably faster, we must analyze the Thermal Design Power (TDP) and the performance per dollar value. So, before we get to the practical benchmarks, let’s look at the marketed specifications of both processors.
Key Takeaways
- Not only is the Intel Core i7-13700K hotter, but it also consumes more power.
- In a few games, the Intel Core i5-13600K has a higher FPS than the Intel Core i7-13700K.
- For 1080P gaming, both Raptor Lake processors are a great choice, regardless of price and performance.
Intel i7-13700K Vs Intel i5-13600K Specifications
While practical benchmarks are crucial for hardware comparisons, we must also look at the on-paper specifications of the products. What’s more, we can determine which processor might have the better performance per dollar ratio through the initial specifications.
| CPU Name | i5-13600K | i7-13700K |
|---|---|---|
| Product Line | Intel i5 series | Intel i7 series |
| Product Generation | Intel 13th Generation | Intel 13th Generation |
| Core Architecture | Hybrid Core Architecture | Hybrid Core Architecture |
| Processing Node | TSMC 10nm | TSMC 10nm |
| Socket | LGA 1700 | LGA 1700 |
| Motherboard Chipset Support | Z790, B760, Z690, B660, H610 | Z790, B760, Z690, B660, H610 |
| Number of P-Cores (Threads) | 6 (12) | 8 (16) |
| Number of E-Cores (Threads) | 8 (8) | 8 (8) |
| L2 Cache | 20 MB | 24 MB |
| L3 Cache | 24 MB | 30 MB |
| Base Clock Speeds (P-Cores) | 3.50 GHz | 3.40 GHz |
| Base Clock Speeds (E-Cores) | 2.60 GHz | 2.50 GHz |
| Boost Clock Speeds (P-Cores) | 5.10 GHz | 5.30 GHz |
| Boost Clock Speeds (E-Cores) | 3.90 GHz | 4.20 GHz |
| Base Power Draw | 125W | 125W |
| Turbo Power Draw | 181W | 253W |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 770 | Intel UHD Graphics 770 |
| Memory Support | DDR4 up to 3200 MT/s and DDR5 up to 5600 MT/s | DDR4 up to 3200 MT/sand DDR5 up to 5600 MT/s |
| PCIe Support | PCIe 4.0 & 5.0 | PCIe 4.0 & 5.0 |
| Launch Price | $320 | $409 |
| Current Price | $330 | $450 |
| Launch Date | October 20, 2022 | October 20, 2022 |
In light of the chart, not much is happening between both Raptor Lake processors. However, looking at the Performance and Efficiency-Cores, the greater number of P-Cores for the Intel i7-13700K might provide more performance.
Furthermore, the amount of power draw difference will prove hysterical for temperatures concerning practical testing. Lastly, reviewing the prices, the Intel i7-13700K is ~36.36% more expensive than the i5-13600K. So, unless the Intel i7-13700K provides sufficient performance increments, the Intel i5-13600K will take the value crown.
Gaming Performance Benchmarks
After looking at the raw specifications, we should move toward real-life tests for both Intel 13th gen processors. These tests will prove useful because we can test average FPS, frame times, power draw, and temperatures. Benchmarks For Gamers has conducted the following gaming benchmark tests.
Testing Rig
- Motherboard: ASUS TUF Gaming Z690-Plus
- Graphics Card: MSI RTX 4090 Suprim X
- RAM: G.Skill Trident Z5 2 x 16 GB DDR5, 6000 MHz; CL36-36-36-96
- CPU Cooler: Arctic Liquid Freezer II 360mm AIO
- Processor: Intel i5-13600K & Intel i7-13700K
Regarding the system, glancing at the motherboard, the ASUS Z690 is a great motherboard with amazing overclocking capabilities. Furthermore, the Z690 motherboard won’t cause any problems for the Raptor Lake processors as it supports DDR5 RAM too. Although we won’t find any PCIe 5.0 lanes, as we’re focusing on the processors, there won’t be any performance hit.
Helpful Read: Best Motherboard For i5-13600k
Moreover, regarding the graphics card, the RTX 4090 is NVIDIA’s current flagship GPU. Therefore, we won’t see any GPU bottlenecks in the tests. On the other hand, it’ll be a test to see which processor can push the graphics card more. To explain, the faster a processor can direct the frames, the more frames the GPU will be able to produce.
Subsequently, looking at the RAM, the G. Skill DDR5 RAM will prove to be an amazing asset during the benchmarks. Because of its fast memory, neither processor will be RAM hungry, and no weird stutters should appear during the tests. However, Intel 13th gen processors only support up to 5600 MHz RAM, so the rest will be unused.
Lastly, by analyzing the CPU cooler, we see that the Arctic Liquid 360mm AIO is perfect for the job. Both processors will get enough cooling, and neither should have thermal throttling issues. If temperatures are higher than usual for either processor, we can be sure that the processor has weak temperature control.
So without any further due, let’s dive into the gaming benchmarks of our Intel i7-13700K Vs Intel i5-13600K battle.
Forza Horizon 5
Starting our benchmarks with Forza Horizon 5, we know that the game is widely popular for its realistic racing simulation. Not only that, but because Forza Horizon 5 requires a higher-end processor, it is a great game for CPU benchmarks.
Firstly, if we look at the power consumption of both processors, we see a massive difference. For example, the Intel Core i5-13600K utilizes 91W power, whereas the Intel Core i7-13700K utilizes 123W power. So, in perspective, the Intel Core i7-13700K uses one-third more power than its competitor. While the power increase might give the 13700K an FPS boost, it will increase its temperatures too.
Secondly, drawing a gaze toward the temperatures, the Intel Core i5-13600K and the Intel Core i7-13700K showcase moderate temperatures. However, the Intel Core i5-13600K is significantly cooler if we take a closer look. To explain, with average temperatures of 46C, as compared with the 56C average of the 13700K, the former demonstrates why lower power consumption is important.
Thirdly, reviewing the frame times, even though the Intel Core i7-13700K costs more, there isn’t any difference between latencies. In other words, the i5-13600K shows latencies of 3.6ms, and the i7-13700K also shows the same latencies of 3.6ms. Although frame times are important to reduce game lag, it isn’t easy to notice in racing games. So, both processors having similar frame times won’t make a difference in performance.
Lastly, we see a similar performance by analyzing the FPS of the Intel Core i5-13600K and the Intel Core i7-13700K. Moreover, the 13600K averages 246 FPS, and the 13700K, 251. Therefore, the Intel Core i7-13700K is ~2.03% faster, giving the Intel Core i5-13600K a better value for its cost.
Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord
For the next game, we have Mount & Blade II: Bannerlord. While the game is famous for its strategic gameplay, it’s a great benchmark title due to being CPU-intensive.
By and large, looking at the power draw first, we see major differences between both processors once again. With the Intel Core i5-13600K averaging 112W power, the Intel Core i7-13700K averages almost one-third more, 155W. Although the previous title did not show a greater FPS increase, Mount and Blade should showcase why a greater power draw equates to more FPS.
Furthermore, gazing at the temperatures, we realize that the culprit for the differences is none other than the power draw. Because the Intel Core i7-13700K utilizes more power, it is also more prone to getting hotter. For that reason, we see massive differences in the Thermal Design Power of both processors. While the temperatures aren’t that high, it can be tedious for overclockers, as high temperatures mean lower clock speeds.
Moreover, reviewing the frame times in Mount and Banner, there is a slight difference in latencies. Consequently, there is a substantial difference between the latencies of both processors. For example, the Intel Core i5-13600K averages 3.6ms latencies, while the Intel Core i7-13700K averages 3.3ms latencies. In other words, the Intel Core i7-13700K has ~9.09% faster frames.
In conclusion of this game in our Intel i7-13700K Vs Intel i5-13600K benchmark test, glancing at the average FPS of both processors, there is a subtle difference in performance. To explain, the Intel Core i5-13600K has an average FPS of 248. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K has an average FPS of 269. So, the 13700K is ~8.46% faster than the 13600K. However, its performance per dollar value drops significantly because the former is ~36.36% more expensive.
Microsoft Flight Simulator
Now, for the next benchmarking test, we have Microsoft Flight Simulator. Because the game exists in an open-world environment, it requires extreme CPU rendering to run properly. For that reason, Microsoft Flight Simulator is a superb game for CPU benchmark tests.
Firstly, talking about the power draw, we notice that there isn’t much difference in the power consumption. In brief, the Intel Core i5-13600K consumes an average of 73W power. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K consumes an average of 84W power. So, there is barely an 11W difference in terms of power consumption.
Secondly, looking at the temperatures, surprisingly, the Intel Core i5-13600K has higher temperatures than its competitor. To explain, the Intel Core i5-13600K gets as hot as 52C. However, the Intel Core i7-13700K has an average temperature of 47C. While the reasons for the anomaly are unknown, we assume that the 13700K is better suited for Microsoft Flight Simulator.
Thirdly, reviewing the frame times, we see similar results between both Raptor Lake processors. Because there aren’t major differences between both processors in terms of architecture, it’s not surprising to see identical outcomes. For example, the Intel Core i5-13600K has an average latency of 11.4ms. But, the Intel Core i7-13700K has an average latency of 11.2ms. So, the absolute difference between both processors is ~1.78% in favor of the Intel Core i7-13700K.
Lastly, by analyzing the average FPS gained by both processors, we don’t see any amazing gains by the 13700K. On the contrary, the Intel Core i7-13700K is only 4% faster than the Intel Core i5-13600K. Due to the 13600K averaging 75 FPS against the average 78 gained by the 13700K, the results are almost similar.
Far Cry 6
Moving on to an action-based game, for the next benchmark of our Intel i7-13700K Vs Intel i5-13600K guide, we have Far Cry 6. Because of its immersive environment, Far Cry 6 is a CPU and GPU-intensive game. For that reason, it makes for a superb benchmarking tool as well!
By and large, starting with the power draw, we see subtle differences between both 13th gen processors. For example, the Intel Core i5-13600K consumes 83W power. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K consumes 106W power. So, the 13700K consumes around a quarter more power, increasing its overall temperatures while slightly improving FPS.
Subsequently, if we look at the temperatures, the Intel Core i7-13700K is slightly warmer than the Intel Core i5-13600K. To explain, the 13600K has temperatures up to 47C. Meanwhile, the 13700K has temperatures up to 56C. Seeing how the Intel Core i7-13700K uses more power, the temperature increase is not significant. On the contrary, the 13700K has a better TDP than the 13600K in Far Cry 6.
Moreover, talking about the frame times, we notice a greater latency difference than before. In brief, the Intel Core i5-13600K has latencies at 7.1ms. However, the Intel Core i7-13700K has latencies at 6.7ms. Because latencies are substantially important in competitive games, casual gamers tend not to care about the differences too much. So, even though the 13700K has ~6% faster frames, it won’t improve gameplay significantly.
Overall, by analyzing the average FPS of both 13th gen processors, there is almost no difference in performance. Of course, we can attribute the nonchalant FPS gap to Raytracing being enabled. Even so, for the Intel Core i7-13700K to only be ~0.7% faster than its rival shows how ridiculous its pricing is.
Marvel’s Spiderman Remastered
After a rather chaotic title, let’s discuss Marvel’s Spiderman Remastered for our next benchmarking test. Not only is Marvel’s Spiderman CPU intensive, but it is also GPU intensive; making it a perfect benchmarking tool.
Firstly, gazing at the power draw, we notice a lot of power consumption by both Raptor Lake processors. However, the Intel Core i7-13700K consumes almost one-third more power than its competitor, the Intel Core i5-13600K. To explain, the 13600K has a power consumption of 108W, while the 13700K has a power consumption of 144W. Not only will the power consumption lead to higher temperatures, but we can also expect greater FPS from both processors.
Secondly, by looking at the temperatures, we know that the culprit for the higher temperatures is the power draw. However, even though the Intel Core i7-13700K consumes a lot of power, its temperature increase is minimal. In brief, the Intel Core i5-13600K has temperatures up to 52C. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K has temperatures up to 59C. With only a 7C gap, the Intel Core i7-13700K has a better TDP.
Thirdly, by reviewing the frame times, we see a massive gap in frame latencies for once. Seeing that the 13600K has frame times of 8.4ms while its competitor has latencies at 7.3ms, the gap is diverse. In other words, the 13700K’s frames are ~15% faster than the 13600K’s.
Lastly, through analysis of the average FPS, there is only a slight gap in performance. That is to say, the Intel Core i7-13700K is ~4.2% faster, averaging 124 FPS, than the Intel Core i5-13600K, which averages 119. Thus, the 13600K has a better performance per dollar value, at least in Marvel’s Spiderman.
Cyberpunk 2077
How can we conduct hardware benchmark tests without including the infamous Cyberpunk 2077? Because of its incredible dependency on processors and graphics cards, Cyberpunk 2077 is one of the best titles to benchmark.
In any case, because the game is too heavy, both processors consume a lot of power. Even though the Intel Core i5-13600K should consume lower power, its power draw in Cyberpunk 2077 exceeds 100W. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K goes above and beyond with a power consumption of 145W. What’s more, greater power consumption will lead to higher temperatures.
Subsequently, looking into the temperatures, while the Intel Core i5-13600K has respectable temperatures, the Intel Core i7-13700K runs too hot. To explain, the Intel Core i5-13600K goes up to 49C. However, the Intel Core i7-13700K almost touches 70C, capping at 68C. While these temperatures won’t be troublesome for average consumers, overclockers will have a hard time getting better scores.
Moreover, because the Cyberpunk 2077 test has Raytracing enabled, the frame latency speeds have decreased. For example, the Intel Core i5-13600K has frame times of 8.0ms, whereas the Intel Core i7-13700K has latencies of 7.9ms. Although the latencies are slightly higher than usual, because Cyberpunk 2077 isn’t a competitive game, it won’t affect gameplay substantially.
In conclusion, while the increased power draw helps the 13700K get more performance, it’s insufficient to satisfy the cost difference. To that end, the Intel Core i5-13600K averages 133 FPS, while the Intel Core i7-13700K averages 136. Additionally, the 13700K is ~2.2% faster than the 13600K. Because the former is ~36.36% more expensive, the Intel Core i5-13600K has a ridiculously better performance per dollar value.
Call of Duty: Warzone
After testing Cyberpunk 2077, let’s look at another shooter-type competitive game, Call of Duty: Warzone. Because of its open map, the game is reliant on the processor. For that reason, it’s a perfect title to test and benchmark different processors.
Firstly, because of the greater CPU utilization, the processors consume a lot of power. Therefore, we see that the Intel Core i5-13600K consumes 101W and the Intel Core i7-13700K consumes 131W power. Because the Intel Core i7-13700K consumes around 30% more power, its temperatures should be 30% higher too. However, we see better thermal control in both Raptor Lake processors due to an improved Thermal Design Power.
Secondly, as mentioned above, due to the thermal capabilities of both processors, the temperatures aren’t extremely high. Although the Intel Core i5-13600K averages 51C, the Intel Core i7-13700K averages 59C. Of course, the temperatures are high, considering the test bench uses a 360mm AIO. However, average consumers won’t notice the temperature increase substantially unless they wish to overclock their equipment.
Thirdly, as competitive games require fast and accurate movements, faster frame times are a necessity. Therefore, the Intel Core i5-13600K is the better processor for such purposes. To explain, the i5-13600K has frame latencies up to 4.6ms. Meanwhile, the i7-13700K has frame latencies of up to 5.1ms. While the result should be the opposite, it shows the capabilities of the 13600K.
Lastly, even if one processor has better performance, it might not have great value. The same can be said for the 13700K due to its unruly performance per dollar value. For example, the 13600K averages 215 FPS, while the 13700K averages 218. With a 3 FPS increase, it cannot match the ~36.36% price increase.
F1 2022
Moving towards our second-last Intel i7-13700K Vs Intel i5-13600K gaming benchmark test, we have F1 22 for the next title. Not only is F1 22 famous for its racing simulation, but it also requires a high-end CPU, making it a remarkable game for benchmarking.
In any case, because the overall requirements of the game aren’t high, we don’t see a lot of power consumption. At least, that is the case for the Intel Core i5-13600K, which averages 84W power draw. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K averages 110W power draw. Because the latter consumes 31% more power, we can expect higher temperatures but better FPS.
Subsequently, as mentioned above, because F1 22 isn’t a difficult-to-run game, the temperatures are fairly normal. To explain, the Intel Core i5-13600K has temperatures at 41C, while the Intel Core i7-13700K has temperatures at 50C. Even though the 13700K consumes 31% more power, its temperature increase isn’t magnanimous. So, although the 13700K is prone to getting hot, it also results in a higher FPS altogether.
Moreover, as frame times aren’t crucial in racing games, the difference won’t affect performance or gameplay. Even so, the Intel Core i5-13600K has an average of 2.7ms latencies. Meanwhile, the Intel Core i7-13700K has an average of 3.0ms. Although the 13700K is the better processor, the 13600K has ~11.11% faster frames, showing its capabilities. Therefore, if you’re looking to buy a processor for its low latencies, the Intel Core i5-13600K is a reasonable option.
In conclusion, the overall FPS isn’t satisfactory for the Intel Core i7-13700K. For example, the Intel i5-13600K gets 330 FPS. On the other hand, the Intel i7-13700K is ~10.3% faster by getting 364 FPS. However, because the 13700K costs more, the 13600K has a better value.
Counter-Strike: Global Offensive
For our last game, we have Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. Even if the game doesn’t have high requirements, it is entirely dependent on the CPU. For that reason, CSGO is a great game for processor benchmarks.
Firstly, as discussed above, because CSGO isn’t difficult to run, both Raptor Lake processors utilize low power. To explain, the Intel Core i5-13600K utilizes 68W power, whereas the Intel Core i7-13700K utilizes 75W power. It is important to note that the Intel Core i7-13700K utilizes considerably lower power in a game out of all the others.
Secondly, due to the lower power usage, we also see lower temperatures. Additionally, it proves that the temperatures are highly influenced by greater power usage. For example, the Intel Core i5-13600K averages 42C, while the Intel Core i7-13700K averages 48C. Additionally, with only a 6C increment, we see that the 13700K has great Thermal Design Power.
Thirdly, because we’re looking at a competitive game, frame times are crucial. In any case, the Intel Core i5-13600K has latencies at 1.7ms. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K has frame latencies of 1.5ms. So, the Intel Core i7-13700K has ~13.33% faster frames than its competitor. What’s more, if you’re planning to upgrade your system for competitive games, the Intel Core i7-13700K is the better option.
Lastly, by analyzing the average FPS of both Intel 13th gen processors, we find a slight gap in performance. However, due to the difference in costs, the Intel Core i5-13600K has better performance per dollar. In brief, the 13600K averages 905 FPS, whereas the 13700K averages 958. Thus, the 13700K is ~5.8% faster while it costs ~36.36% more.
Gaming Benchmarks Verdict
After looking through all the benchmark tests, we can create multiple conclusions. Notwithstanding, these conclusions can include performance per dollar value, thermal efficiency, frame times, and total performance increase. Because every consumer has specific needs, we must look at all possibilities and which is better in that particular segment.
Firstly, looking at the thermal efficiency of both Raptor Lake processors, we realize that the 13600K has a better TDP. However, that is the case for overall values. If we look at temperatures concerning power consumption, then the Intel Core i7-13700K has a better TDP. For example, in Marvel’s Spiderman, the 13600K averages 52C compared to the 13700K’s 59C, with a one-third power usage increment.
Secondly, talking about the frame times, while not the most important, matters for professional gamers. Due to lower latencies, gamers can aim and shoot faster than their opponents. Therefore, comparing the values, the Intel i7-13700K and Intel i5-13600K processors go head-to-head in frame times. Although, the Intel Core i7-13700K averages slightly faster frames than its competitor.
Lastly, reviewing overall performance, the Intel Core i5-13600K has an average of 2,405 FPS in all the games. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K has an average of 2,533 FPS in all the games. In other words, the Intel i7-13700K is ~5.3% faster than the Intel i5-13600K in gaming. However, due to the processor costing ~36.36% more, the Intel i5-13600K has a better performance per dollar value. So, if prices don’t bother you, the Intel i7-13700K is the better pick. Although, if prices are an issue, the Intel i5-13600K is the better option.
Who Is This Article For?
In summary, the Intel i7-13700K Vs Intel i5-13600K article is for consumers planning to upgrade their systems. If you are planning to upgrade from an Intel 12th-gen build, we recommend reading through our Intel i7-13700K Vs 12700K article.
Subsequently, in the start, we looked at the core specifications of both processors and reviewed their prices. Furthermore, the price difference paved the way for us to realize the performance per dollar value of both processors.
Moreover, we tested multiple games on a uniform test bench and looked at the TDP, frame times, and average FPS. Lastly, we reviewed all the tests and divided which processor is better in certain categories. For example, the Intel Core i5-13600K has better performance per dollar. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700K has a higher overall FPS.
Because consumers buy processors based on their use-case scenario, we must look at all possibilities and provide solutions. Therefore, creating multiple conclusions within a single benchmark is crucial as it breaks down a processor’s performance under certain conditions.
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[Comparisons Expert]
Abdemanaf is a skilled creative writer who has been honing his craft since 2011. While initially working in different fields, he found a passion for technology and has been exploring the tech world since early 2015. Over the years, he has developed an in-depth knowledge of the latest tech trends and product offerings by various companies.
Abdemanaf’s writing reflects his analytical mindset and ability to think critically. He has a knack for breaking down complex technical information into easily digestible pieces, making his articles engaging and accessible to readers from all backgrounds. In February 2022, he joined Tech4Gamers as a blog and product comparison writer, where he has been able to hone his skills further.
As a writer, Abdemanaf is dedicated to staying up-to-date with the latest technological advancements and trends, enabling him to provide readers with the most relevant and accurate information. He is always eager to learn more and is constantly seeking new challenges to improve his skills.
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