How to Build a PC: The Ultimate Beginner's Guide | PCMag
First-timer to PC building, or just need a 2024 refresher? Follow our ultimate step-by-step guide to assembling a modern desktop just the way you like it.
Intel Core i7-13700K
For our sample build, we chose the <anchor>Intel Core i7-13700K</anchor>, our current top pick for gaming processors and an excellent choice for productivity and content creation as well. These 13th Gen Intel chips tend to run hot, and you'll likely want a liquid cooling system rather than just a heatsink or fan for this processor. The K suffix indicates that the chip is overclockable, but even if you don't overclock, liquid is the way to go.
Intel Core i7-13700K Review | PCMag
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# Intel Core i7-13700K Review

Meet the new value king among high-end CPUs

4.5

Outstanding

[![Michael Justin Allen Sexton](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/authors/02GaGK41YaCJlXnMD055ztd.fit_lim.size_100x100.v1560221559.jpg)](/authors/michael-sexton)

By
Michael Justin Allen Sexton

Michael Justin Allen Sexton

Analyst

* * *

My Experience

For as long as I can remember, I've had love of all things tech, spurred on, in part, by a love of gaming. I began working on computers owned by immediate family members and relatives when I was around 10 years old. I've always sought to learn as much as possible about anything PC, leading to a well-rounded grasp on all things tech today. In my role at PCMag, I greatly enjoy the opportunity to share what I know.

[Read Full Bio](/authors/michael-sexton)

April 24, 2023

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[Comments](#comments)

![Intel Core i7-13700K](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/reviews/00K9GpRPJgD6fW3IsnUMD21-1.fit_scale.size_760x427.v1681999901.jpg)

(Credit: Michael Justin Allen Sexton)

4.5

Outstanding

### The Bottom Line

At $419, Intel's Core i7-13700K is a juggernaut within its price range. Its 16-core design delivers potent multithreaded performance and highly competitive gaming muscle for the money.

MSRP $419.00

[$309.99  at Amazon\
\
$419.00Save $109.01\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0BCF57FL5%2Fref%3Dox_sc_act_title_1%3Fsmid%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26psc%3D1&template=review-page&module=score-card-persistent&element=buy-button&item=offer&position=1&element_label=%24309.99+at+Amazon+%24419.00+Save+%24109.01+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=00K9GpRPJgD6fW3IsnUMD21&product_uuid=07DkmCflxE3PaoHWCaFbjDH "(Opens in a new tab)") [$415.87  at Newegg\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=04Whm9mkUewOTAIi96cuV9L&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.newegg.com%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k-core-i7-13th-gen%2Fp%2FN82E16819118414%3Fitem%3DN82E16819118414&template=review-page&module=score-card-persistent&element=buy-button&item=offer&position=2&element_label=%24415.87+at+Newegg+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=00K9GpRPJgD6fW3IsnUMD21&product_uuid=07DkmCflxE3PaoHWCaFbjDH "(Opens in a new tab)") [$334.99  at Best Buy\
\
$489.99Save $155.00\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=07ceq7iAfFfRlRYt8DCvPYM&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bestbuy.com%2Fsite%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k-13th-gen-16-cores-8-p-cores-8-e-cores-30m-cache-3-4-to-5-4-ghz-lga1700-unlocked-desktop-processor%2F6521194.p%3FskuId%3D6521194&template=review-page&module=score-card-persistent&element=buy-button&item=offer&position=3&element_label=%24334.99+at+Best+Buy+%24489.99+Save+%24155.00+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=00K9GpRPJgD6fW3IsnUMD21&product_uuid=07DkmCflxE3PaoHWCaFbjDH "(Opens in a new tab)") [$339.39  at Walmart\
\
$499.99Save $160.60\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=02zLDwCqTbhlnKCTPdI0yqf&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.walmart.com%2Fip%2FIntel-Core-i7-13700K-CPU-3-4-GHz-16-Core-LGA-1700-Processor-BX8071513700K%2F1632323638&template=review-page&module=score-card-persistent&element=buy-button&item=offer&position=4&element_label=%24339.39+at+Walmart+%24499.99+Save+%24160.60+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=00K9GpRPJgD6fW3IsnUMD21&product_uuid=07DkmCflxE3PaoHWCaFbjDH "(Opens in a new tab)")

More Prices

PCMag editors select and review products [independently](https://www.pcmag.com/about/pcmagcom-mission-statement). If you buy through affiliate links, we may earn commissions,
which help support our [testing](https://www.pcmag.com/about/how-we-test-everything-we-review).

### Pros

- Excellent performance for the price

- Easily outpaces similarly priced competitors

- Integrated graphics suitable for office work and old games


### Cons

- Runs hot

- Power-hungry

- Doesn't include a stock cooler


## Intel Core i7-13700K Specs

NameValueCore Count
16
Thread Count
24
Base Clock Frequency
3.4 GHz
Maximum Boost Clock
5.4 GHz
Unlocked Multiplier?Socket Compatibility
Intel LGA 1700
Lithography
7 nm
L3 Cache Amount
30 MB
Thermal Design Power (TDP) Rating
125 watts
Integrated Graphics
Intel UHD Graphics 770
Integrated Graphics Base Clock
300 MHz
Bundled Cooler
None

All Specs

_\[Editors' Note, Aug 2, 2024: The emergence in mid-2024 of a microcode bug related to voltage has led us, at the moment, to take a wait-and-see stance on recommending any Intel 13th and 14th Gen desktop CPUs rated at 65 watts and higher. [See our explainer on the issue](https://www.pcmag.com/explainers/intels-raptor-lake-desktop-cpu-bug-what-to-know-what-to-do-now)_ _for background.\]_

* * *

While status seekers crave the Core i9, Intel's Core i7 processors are often the best values among Team Blue's desktop chips. Though they don't have quite as much multithreaded processing power, Core i7 [CPUs](https://www.pcmag.com/picks/the-best-cpus) pack some serious punch at lower prices than their Core i9 cousins. This often makes them highly recommendable within a given processor generation, and this is exactly where we find ourselves with the Core i7-13700K ($419). While it's not the absolute fastest mainstream desktop chip, and certainly not the cheapest, it occupies a value high point in the silicon market—one that AMD is struggling to counter—earning it our Editors' Choice award for enthusiast desktop processors.

You Can Trust Our Reviews

Since 1982, PCMag has tested and rated [thousands of products](/categories/processors) to help you make better buying decisions. [Read our editorial mission](https://www.pcmag.com/about/pcmagcom-mission-statement "(Opens in a new tab)") & [see how we test](https://www.pcmag.com/about/how-we-test-everything-we-review "(Opens in a new tab)").

* * *

## Design: Meet the First Core i7 With 16 Cores

Intel's 13th Generation ["Raptor Lake" architecture](https://www.pcmag.com/news/intel-unveils-raptor-lake-13th-gen-core-cpus-with-overclockable-chips-to) doesn't differ significantly from its 12th Gen "Alder Lake" platform. The latter was a revolutionary design with the introduction of a new multicore approach that mixed high-performance P-Cores and high-efficiency E-Cores in a configuration akin to ARM's "big.Little" design philosophy. This worked so well for Intel that with Raptor Lake, the company essentially opted for more of the same, boosting the number of cores in the split-level configuration.

![Intel Core i7-13700K right angle](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20768%20432'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

(Credit: Michael Justin Allen Sexton)

In other words, we're still looking at Performance cores and Efficient cores; we just have more of them now. The previous-generation [Intel Core i7-12700K](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/intel-core-i7-12700k) shipped with eight P-Cores and four E-Cores, while the Core i7-13700K steps up to eight apiece. Intel did change a few more things under the hood with Raptor Lake, boosting the overall amount of cache and pushing clock speeds a bit higher, but the increased core count is by far the most significant difference.

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3.5

Good

### AMD Ryzen 5 7600

[$182.14  at Amazon\
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![Intel Core i5-13400F](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20238%20139'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

3.5

Good

### Intel Core i5-13400F

[$161.66  at Amazon\
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$241.25Save $79.59\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FIntel-i5-13400F-Desktop-Processor-P-cores%2Fdp%2FB0BQ6BRL4T%2F&template=review-page&module=similar-products-carousel&element=product-tile&item=buy-button&position=2&element_label=%24161.66+at+Amazon+%24241.25+Save+%2479.59+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=01hJzkCHrcpgqbMPETkaySv&product_uuid=02Xx3wOGzQQQeVtwtY08O1u "(Opens in a new tab)") [Read Our Intel Core i5-13400F Review](/reviews/intel-core-i5-13400f)

![AMD Ryzen 7 5700X Image](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20238%20139'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

4.0

Excellent

### AMD Ryzen 7 5700X

[$159.19  at Amazon\
\
$319.00Save $159.81\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB09VCHQHZ6%2Fref%3Dox_sc_act_title_1%3Fsmid%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26psc%3D1&template=review-page&module=similar-products-carousel&element=product-tile&item=buy-button&position=3&element_label=%24159.19+at+Amazon+%24319.00+Save+%24159.81+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=05YutJJpktF3OlPAELaqcl2&product_uuid=03VTxBoNeXqKxX3KPhvsld7 "(Opens in a new tab)") [Read Our AMD Ryzen 7 5700X Review](/reviews/amd-ryzen-7-5700x)

![Intel Core i5-10400 Product Shot](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20238%20139'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

3.5

Good

### Intel Core i5-10400

[$123.97  at Amazon\
\
$182.00Save $58.03\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FIntel-i5-10400-Desktop-Processor-LGA1200%2Fdp%2FB086MN38Q2&template=review-page&module=similar-products-carousel&element=product-tile&item=buy-button&position=4&element_label=%24123.97+at+Amazon+%24182.00+Save+%2458.03+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=02yNJwY2ZnqJ3MXc0UTDPmR&product_uuid=07rah9Tiw9QttH5oUvdF3bg "(Opens in a new tab)") [Read Our Intel Core i5-10400 Review](/reviews/intel-core-i5-10400)

![AMD Ryzen 9 7950X Image](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20238%20139'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

4.5

Outstanding

### AMD Ryzen 9 7950X

[$400.84  at Amazon\
\
$699.00Save $298.16\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAMD-7950X-32-Thread-Unlocked-Processor%2Fdp%2FB0BBHD5D8Y&template=review-page&module=similar-products-carousel&element=product-tile&item=buy-button&position=5&element_label=%24400.84+at+Amazon+%24699.00+Save+%24298.16+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=03tKNNeLfUUq6VvO3J2TG4g&product_uuid=03Z7UMmjONCsCgtGZxksxgP "(Opens in a new tab)") [Read Our AMD Ryzen 9 7950X Review](/reviews/amd-ryzen-9-7950x)

![Intel Core i9-14900K](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20238%20139'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

3.5

Good

### Intel Core i9-14900K

[$579.95  at Amazon\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fi9-14900K-Desktop-Processor-Integrated-Graphics%2Fdp%2FB0CGJDKLB8&template=review-page&module=similar-products-carousel&element=product-tile&item=buy-button&position=6&element_label=%24579.95+at+Amazon+%26nbsp%3B+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=05j5ngIhxiYcz2AyBh7rEVF&product_uuid=05AeDxfck2G18ON1qS0Hiok "(Opens in a new tab)") [Read Our Intel Core i9-14900K Review](/reviews/intel-core-i9-14900k)

![AMD Ryzen 9 7900 Image](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20238%20139'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

4.0

Excellent

### AMD Ryzen 9 7900

[$368.19  at Amazon\
\
$429.00Save $60.81\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAMD-7900-24-Thread-Unlocked-Processor%2Fdp%2FB0BMQK718H&template=review-page&module=similar-products-carousel&element=product-tile&item=buy-button&position=7&element_label=%24368.19+at+Amazon+%24429.00+Save+%2460.81+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=01uexdA2M6iSPqBNTrFmVYy&product_uuid=05M0dY88JvcVvsiGrMPoWOQ "(Opens in a new tab)") [Read Our AMD Ryzen 9 7900 Review](/reviews/amd-ryzen-9-7900)

![Intel Core i7-14700K](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20238%20139'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

4.0

Excellent

### Intel Core i7-14700K

[$299.00  at Amazon\
\
$464.99Save $165.99\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fi7-14700K-Desktop-Processor-Integrated-Graphics%2Fdp%2FB0CGJ41C9W&template=review-page&module=similar-products-carousel&element=product-tile&item=buy-button&position=8&element_label=%24299.00+at+Amazon+%24464.99+Save+%24165.99+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=03nBDQggnTSPmW4UdrLEizh&product_uuid=04ClkM1IUN2tJJq5r4HKa71 "(Opens in a new tab)") [Read Our Intel Core i7-14700K Review](/reviews/intel-core-i7-14700k)

![AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20238%20139'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

4.5

Outstanding

### AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X

[$2,302.11  at Amazon\
\
$2,499.00Save $196.89\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2FAMD-RyzenTM-ThreadripperTM-7970X-64-Thread%2Fdp%2FB0CK2W3WFP&template=review-page&module=similar-products-carousel&element=product-tile&item=buy-button&position=9&element_label=%242%2C302.11+at+Amazon+%242%2C499.00+Save+%24196.89+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=02cjonqe4GILBItL2OFfWRy&product_uuid=00YPB7Ri4liwEmpgJN56893 "(Opens in a new tab)") [Read Our AMD Ryzen Threadripper 7970X Review](/reviews/amd-ryzen-threadripper-7970x)

That's not to say the increase in clock speed is chopped liver. The Core i7-13700K's Performance cores have a max turbo speed of 5.4GHz, versus 5.0GHz for the Core i7-12700K. The Efficient cores get a similar 400MHz hike, with the E-Cores clocked at 4.2GHz versus 3.8GHz for the Core i7-12700K's. That will certainly help the Core i7-13700K in our upcoming benchmarks, especially the single-threaded tests.

![Intel Core i7-13700K overview](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20768%20432'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

(Credit: Michael Justin Allen Sexton)

It's interesting to note that the new CPU's base clocks are slightly lower than its predecessor's, but realistically this doesn't mean much. Modern processors almost always operate over their base clock speeds when under load, usually running closer to their max turbo speeds. The lower base clocks would only be a factor if the turbo boost functionality was disabled, which would basically defeat the purpose of testing, so it's not something we're going to do.

![Intel Core i7-13700K pin side](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20768%20432'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

(Credit: Michael Justin Allen Sexton)

The Core i7-12700K and Core i7-13700K have identical integrated graphics processors (IGPs), denoted as Intel UHD Graphics 770. This graphics solution has 32 execution units (EUs) and operates at 1.5GHz in the Core i7-12700K, with the Core i7-13700K a step higher at 1.6GHz. Raptor Lake processors also support DDR5 RAM speeds up to 5,600MHz, which should give the integrated graphics a boost from the 4,800MHz ceiling of Alder Lake (assuming you pair your chip with appropriately speedy RAM and configure the memory speeds thus).

One thing to note: Due to the Intel Core i7-13700K's high power draw (more about that later in the review), it does not come with a stock cooler, air or otherwise; most high-end CPUs these days make you bring your own, too. As our standard 240mm water cooler is unable to handle keeping the Core i7 cool under its thermal limit at full load, it's doubtful _any_ current stock cooler would be sufficient for the task. If you don't have a compatible LGA1700-socket liquid cooler on hand, you'll want to factor that cost into the equation here. That said, competing Ryzen 9 chips like the 7900X and 7950X also require you to supply your own cooler.

* * *

## Testing the Intel Core i7-13700K: Our Benchmarking Setup

We tested the Intel Core i7-13700K on a [Gigabyte Z790 Aorus Master](https://gigabyte.com/Motherboard/Z790-AORUS-MASTER-rev-10#kf "(Opens in a new tab)") motherboard with two 16GB sticks of DDR5 memory in a dual-channel configuration. The RAM was operated at the Core i7-13700K CPU's maximum officially supported speed of 5,600MHz. Other non-Raptor Lake CPUs we tested were operated at lower memory speeds according to their respective supported maximums.

A 240mm [Cooler Master MasterLiquid PL240 Flux](https://www.coolermaster.com/catalog/coolers/cpu-liquid-coolers/masterliquid-pl240-flux/ "(Opens in a new tab)") water cooler kept the chip from overheating. Power came from a [SilverStone DA850](https://www.silverstonetek.com/en/product/info/power-supplies/DA850Gold/ "(Opens in a new tab)") PSU, and all tests were performed under [Windows 11](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/microsoft-windows-11). An open-air Praxis Wetbench chassis was used to house all the parts during testing.

The Core i7-13700K's price and performance put it in a fiercely competitive group. Arguably its strongest rival is the AMD Ryzen 9 7900 (which we've tested and are in the process of reviewing), which has an MSRP just $10 higher, at $429. However, the [AMD Ryzen 9 7950X](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/amd-ryzen-9-7950x) could equally well claim that position, as it's probably the closest to the Core i7-13700K in overall performance.

The older [Core i5-12600K](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/intel-core-i5-12600k), [Core i7-12700K](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/intel-core-i7-12700k), and [AMD Ryzen 7 5700X](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/amd-ryzen-7-5700x) don't threaten the Core i7-13700K's performance, but they're still speedy CPUs worth keeping in mind as they're available at steep discounts now that they're no longer the latest and greatest.

* * *

## Intel Core i7-13700K Test Results: CPU Benchmarking

The AIDA64 memory and bandwidth test is a useful tool that lets us gauge the amount of bandwidth available to the processor. Though the test scores here aren't directly indicative of real-world performance for any specific applications, the information can help us to understand the other test scores.

Memory bandwidth on the Core i7-13700K is plentiful, thanks to the use of DDR5 memory clocked at 5,600MHz. The AMD chips here support DDR5 speeds up to 5,200MHz, but it's notable that the 12th Generation Intel processors limit DDR5 to 4,800MHz and still have more memory bandwidth than AMD. AMD reverses this situation with generally better L2 and L3 cache performance, which is arguably more important.

The Core i7-13700K started off impressively in our synthetic benchmarks with Cinebench scores (single-threaded and multithreaded) significantly higher than those of its closest-priced AMD competitor, the Ryzen 9 7900. The 13700K CPU wasn't nearly as fast as AMD's Ryzen 9 7950X in Cinebench multithreaded, but, at $699, the latter costs considerably more. Given that, we'd expect to see the 7950X perform better in every test, but that wasn't quite the case. The Core i7-13700K beat it in single-threaded Cinebench, for one.

In our PugetBench-plugin tests using Adobe's popular Photoshop and Premiere Pro, the Core i7-13700K actually traded blows with the Ryzen 9 7950X, winning on one of the two. Typically we'd consider this a draw, but considering their very different prices, the Intel chip is clearly the better value option here. We also saw the Core i7-13700K outpace the Ryzen 9 7950X in our HandBrake and single-threaded POV-Ray tests, though the AMD processor posted countering wins with faster Blender and multi-threaded POV-Ray scores.

Overall, the Core i7-13700K didn't outright beat AMD's best Ryzen 9 in terms of performance, but it's crystal clear that it's the better value. It significantly outpaced the similarly priced Ryzen 9 7900 in most tests, with the latter's value equation helped only slightly by the decent stock cooler that AMD ships with it. However, the performance delta was so great that the Ryzen 9 7900 really doesn't compete with the Core i7-13700K.

The older Core i7-12700K and the [Core i5-13600K](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/intel-core-i5-13600k) are both really more comparable with the Core i7-13700K. And seeing as both have price tags closer to $300, that fact gives you at least a financial incentive to opt for them, even though the Core i7-13700K is clearly faster.

* * *

## Intel Core i7-13700K Test Results: Gaming Benchmarks

Paired with an [Nvidia GeForce RTX 3080](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/nvidia-geforce-rtx-3080-founders-edition) GPU, the Core i7-13700K proved one of the best gaming processors we've tested to date. It was notably faster than most of the other tested chips in F1 22 (the [AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/amd-ryzen-9-7950x3d) was quicker at 1080p, but only by an amount within the margin of error). The Core i5-13600K managed to hold its own against the Core i7-13700K, and it and the Ryzen 5 7600 were even slightly better with the resolution turned up to 4K, though the difference was again margin-of-error material. The bottom line is that the Core i7-13700K closely matches or beats out most other mainstream or high-end chips regardless. You'll likely only see slight advantages from chips like the 3D V-cache-enabled AMDs with GPUs higher-end than the already elite RTX 3080.

In Marvel's Guardians of the Galaxy, the Core i7-13700K didn't fare quite as well, falling a few frames behind the older Alder Lake processors as well as (more predictably) the [Intel Core i9-13900K](https://www.pcmag.com/reviews/intel-core-i9-13900k) and the AMD Ryzen 7 7700. The trend continued with Total War: Three Kingdoms, with the Core i7-13700K once again bested by all the 12th Gen Intel chips and more of the Ryzen 7000 series as well. Again, most of the differences fell within the margin of error, though the Ryzen 9 7950X3D clearly demonstrated its supremacy, finishing 4% ahead of the Core i7-13700K. If you have a very high-end GPU and differences in frame rate of 5% or so are your concern, you may want to look at one of the AMD gaming-focused specialty chips to squeeze out every last drop.

The Core i7-13700K did better in Bioshock Infinite, once again coming close to the top of the pack. The Core i9-13900K copped the gold medal here, but the Core i7-13700K was clearly second-best. It was also fastest in Tomb Raider, except at 4K resolution where the Ryzen 9 7950X3D again made its presence known by a few frames.

* * *

## Intel Core i7-13700K Test Results: Intel UHD Graphics 770 Testing

Integrated graphics are often overlooked with processors like these, but they're perfectly well suited for any task apart from running modern games with high levels of graphics detail. The Core i7-13700K's Intel UHD Graphics 770 benefit from slightly higher clock speeds and faster RAM that gives it an edge over older Alder Lake parts, but that's not all that matters when it comes to gaming.

In F1 22, the red team headed by the Ryzen 9 7950X3D held a slight advantage, but the Core i7-13700K did finish ahead of all the older Alder Lake chips. This situation changed drastically in Total War: Three Kingdoms, where the Core i7-13700K outpaced everything except the Core i9-13900K. AMD's IGP didn't stand a chance here.

The Core i7-13700K's IGP was once again the fastest in Bioshock Infinite, but the older Core i7-12700K and Core i5-12600K took a notable and unexpected lead in Tomb Raider. Those processors' IGP is identical to the new Core i7's except for the latter's slightly higher clocks and faster RAM, which suggests their victory was due to optimization issues. Nonetheless, the Core i7-13700K did beat AMD in all these tests except F1 22.

Frame-rate watchers are inclined to view these processors' integrated graphics as unusable for gaming, but it's important to keep in mind that we saw playable frame rates from most of these CPUs in all tests at 720p. Even the AMD chips, which struggle in some games, can run old games like Tomb Raider or Bioshock Infinite if you don't crank resolution or graphics settings too high. Though gaming will _undeniably_ be much better with a discrete GPU, you can still have a relatively enjoyable gaming experience with one of these processors as long as you accept its limitations and stick to games for which it's suited.

* * *

## Intel Core i7-13700K Test Results: Power and Thermals

We test components' power consumption using a Kill-A-Watt wall meter to measure the power draw of the test system as a whole. Since the only component that's changed in these tests is the CPU, the difference in total power consumption is mostly due to that part alone, though comparisons between AMD and Intel must be taken with a grain of salt as we can't test them on the same motherboard.

The Core i7-13700K is notably power-hungry, drawing 364 watts (W) of total system power in Cinebench and 544W in Adobe Premiere. That's more than any of the AMD processors and all the Intel competitors except the Core i9-13900K. However, its power draw in Cinebench was only 1 watt more than the Core i7-12700K's, which is superb given the increase in core count.

Like most modern high-end processors, the Core i7-13700K hits its thermal limit, in this case 100 degrees C, while under heavy load. This would make overclocking the processor difficult without substantial cooling. Undervolting the chip to reduce heat and help reduce thermal throttling could be beneficial, however.

* * *

## Verdict: Dominant in Its Price Range

Intel's Core i7-13700K may be power-hungry, but it also delivers thrilling performance for an appropriate price. After looking over the market and comparing its benchmarks to its competitors', the CPU is in a close-to-unassailable position at this moment in the around-$400 zone.

![Intel Core i7-13700K overview](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg'%20viewBox='0%200%20768%20432'%3E%3Crect%20fill='%23f7f7f7'%20/%3E%3C/svg%3E)

(Credit: Michael Justin Allen Sexton)

You always have the option to spend more and go faster with a Core i9, or to do the opposite of that and buy something more affordable that's a bit slower. Most everyday users would be fine doing the latter, as the Core i5-13600K and older Core i7-12700K offer excellent multithreaded performance, too. But if you're looking to get the best processor you can for around $400, and have factored in the CPU-cooler situation, we can say without hesitation that the Editors' Choice-award-winning Core i7-13700K is it.

Intel Core i7-13700K

4.5

Editors' Choice

[![Intel Core i7-13700K](data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg xmlns='http://www.w3.org/2000/svg' viewBox='0 0 528 297'%3E%3Crect fill='%23f7f7f7' /%3E%3C/svg%3E)](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0BCF57FL5%2Fref%3Dox_sc_act_title_1%3Fsmid%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26psc%3D1&template=review-page&module=product-cards&element=product-card&item=image&position=1&element_label=&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=00K9GpRPJgD6fW3IsnUMD21&product_uuid=07DkmCflxE3PaoHWCaFbjDH "(Opens in a new tab)")[See It\
\
$309.99 at Amazon](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0BCF57FL5%2Fref%3Dox_sc_act_title_1%3Fsmid%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26psc%3D1&template=review-page&module=product-cards&element=product-card&item=buy-button&position=1&element_label=See+It+%24309.99+at+Amazon&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=00K9GpRPJgD6fW3IsnUMD21&product_uuid=07DkmCflxE3PaoHWCaFbjDH "(Opens in a new tab)")

MSRP $419.00

Pros

- Excellent performance for the price

- Easily outpaces similarly priced competitors

- Integrated graphics suitable for office work and old games


Cons

- Runs hot

- Power-hungry

- Doesn't include a stock cooler


The Bottom Line

At $419, Intel's Core i7-13700K is a juggernaut within its price range. Its 16-core design delivers potent multithreaded performance and highly competitive gaming muscle for the money.

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### About Michael Justin Allen Sexton

#### Analyst

![Michael Justin Allen Sexton](https://i.pcmag.com/imagery/authors/02GaGK41YaCJlXnMD055ztd.fit_lim.size_200x200.v1560221559.jpg)

[Michael Justin Allen Sexton's Email](/cdn-cgi/l/email-protection#167b7f757e77737a3865736e627978566c7f70707b73727f773875797b)

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For as long as I can remember, I've had love of all things tech, spurred on, in part, by a love of gaming. I began working on computers owned by immediate family members and relatives when I was around 10 years old. I've always sought to learn as much as possible about anything PC, leading to a well-rounded grasp on all things tech today. In my role at PCMag, I greatly enjoy the opportunity to share what I know.

I wrote for the well-known tech site Tom's Hardware for three years before I joined PCMag in 2018. In that time, I've reviewed desktops, PC cases, and motherboards as a freelancer, while also producing deals content for the site and its sibling ExtremeTech. Now, as a full-time PCMag analyst, I'm focusing on reviewing processors and graphics cards while dabbling in all other things PC-related.

[Read Michael Justin Allen's full bio](/authors/michael-sexton)

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Table of Contents
Intel Core i7-13700K$309.99 at Amazon
[Intel Core i7-13700K\
\
$309.99 at Amazon\
\
See It](https://cc.pcmag.com/v1/otc/01r1WRIAJykbQgN4oGQ8FSi?merchant=05kie42h3YvHwjr4G1w80Qq&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fdp%2FB0BCF57FL5%2Fref%3Dox_sc_act_title_1%3Fsmid%3DATVPDKIKX0DER%26psc%3D1&template=review-page&module=toc-commerce&element=toc-commerce-link&item=toc-commerce-list&position=1&element_label=Intel+Core+i7-13700K+%24309.99+at+Amazon+See+It&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.pcmag.com%2Freviews%2Fintel-core-i7-13700k&object_type=review&object_uuid=00K9GpRPJgD6fW3IsnUMD21&product_uuid=07DkmCflxE3PaoHWCaFbjDH "(Opens in a new tab)")

- [Table of Contents](#article)
- [Design: Meet the First Core i7 With 16 Cores](#design-meet-the-first-core-i7-with-16-cores)
- [Testing the Intel Core i7-13700K: Our Benchmarking Setup](#testing-the-intel-core-i7-13700k-our-benchmarking-setup)
- [Intel Core i7-13700K Test Results: CPU Benchmarking](#intel-core-i7-13700k-test-results-cpu-benchmarking)
- [Intel Core i7-13700K Test Results: Gaming Benchmarks](#intel-core-i7-13700k-test-results-gaming-benchmarks)
- [Intel Core i7-13700K Test Results: Intel UHD Graphics 770 Testing](#intel-core-i7-13700k-test-results-intel-uhd-graphics-770-testing)
- [Intel Core i7-13700K Test Results: Power and Thermals](#intel-core-i7-13700k-test-results-power-and-thermals)
- [Verdict: Dominant in Its Price Range](#verdict-dominant-in-its-price-range)
- [Intel Core i7-13700K Specs](#specs)