Best Intel CPU in 2023: Reviews and buying guide
The best Intel CPUs available on the market right now.
If you’re in the market for a new Intel CPU, you’re in luck. With so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which CPU is the best for your needs. That’s why we’ve put together this ultimate guide to the best Intel CPU in 2023. We’ll cover everything from performance and price to features and more. So, let’s get started!
Now read: Best CPU for gaming 2023
Intel makes very formidable CPUs, and both AMD and Intel are locked in a constant battle for the best CPU. Great for us consumers because it forces one manufacturer to improve faster than the other to get ahead. Today, we’re going to discuss the best Intel CPU for gaming and productivity and explain why that choice has been made. So buckle up, here’s the best Intel CPU in 2023.
Best Intel CPU 2023: Products at a glance
Intel Core i9-13900KS
Cores
24
Threads
32
Base speed
3.2 GHz
Boost speed
6 GHz
Cache
36MB
TDP
150W
Intel Core i9-13900K
Cores
24
Threads
32
Base speed
P-cores 3 GHz / E-cores 2.2 GHz
Boost speed
P-cores 5.8 GHz / E-cores 4.3 GHz
Cache
36MB
TDP
125 W / 253 W boost.
Intel Core i5-13600K
Cores
14
Threads
20
Base speed
P-cores 3.5 GHz / E-cores 2.6 GHz
Boost speed
P-cores 5.1 GHz / E-cores 3.9 GHz
Cache
20MB
TDP
125 W / 181 W boost.
Intel Core i5-13600K
Cores
14
Threads
20
Base speed
P-cores 3.5 GHz / E-cores 2.6 GHz
Boost speed
P-cores 5.1 GHz / E-cores 3.9 GHz
Cache
20MB
TDP
125 W / 181 W boost.
Best Intel CPU
Here we will outline our picks for the best Intel CPU for gaming. These CPUs are the best of the best that intel has to offer, we worked hard in selecting a good range of CPUs to choose from.
Core i9-13900KS
Intel Core i9-13900KS
Cores
24
Threads
32
Base speed
3.2 GHz
Boost speed
6 GHz
Cache
36MB
TDP
150W
- Powerful single and multi-core performance
- High boost speeds
- improved L2 cache capacity
- 32 logical processors
- pricey
- runs VERY hot
The i9-13900KS CPU is an extremely powerful processor that surpasses its competitors in both single and multi-core workloads. Its 24-core and 32-thread capabilities make it the top-performing multi-threaded CPU in recent years.
Despite its impressive performance, the 13900KS has a high TDP of 150W base and 253W boost, which is a significant increase over Alder Lake. However, this also translates to a massive performance increase, with Raptor Lake CPUs boasting up to a 15% improvement in single-core performance and up to 41% in multi-core performance. Upgrading the motherboard is not necessary to access this performance, although it has its benefits. not to mention its staggering base clock speed and boost clocks of 3.2 GHz and 6 GHz respectivley.
One of the improvements made to the 13900KS is the doubling of the L2 CPU cache, enabling the CPU to access larger and faster storage more swiftly. This prevents the CPU from experiencing backlogs that can slow down its processing speed. The 13900KS is also incredibly fast, with a boost core speed of up to 6GHz, making it the fastest core speed currently available. Not to mention the fastest naturally boosting CPU in the world.
However, the 13900KS does have a downside. It tends to run very hotly under immense stress, our testing found that even the lesser 13900K throttled up to 13%, even with a 360mm AIO. While it is unlikely that users will experience this level of usage, it’s important to consider cooling solutions to prevent the 13900KS from overheating.
Better value than the KS: Core i9-13900K
Intel Core i9-13900K
Cores
24
Threads
32
Base speed
P-cores 3 GHz / E-cores 2.2 GHz
Boost speed
P-cores 5.8 GHz / E-cores 4.3 GHz
Cache
36MB
TDP
125 W / 253 W boost.
Intel’s 13th generation Raptor Lake flagship processor, the Intel Core i9, is highly sought after for the LGA 1700 platofrm for its exceptional gaming performance and impressive benchmark results across a wide range of tasks. This 24-core, 32-thread processor is able to handle these tasks with ease. Furthermore, it is compatible with PCI-E 4.0/5.0 and works seamlessly with 700 series motherboards, as well as 12th-generation motherboards that share the same socket.
The Intel Core i9 13900K Processor is a strong contender for the best Intel CPU for 2023. Its exceptional performance in both creator-centric tasks and gaming is due to its impressive single-core performance. This sets it apart from most, if not all, of AMD’s offerings in its price range.
However, compared to AMD’s Ryzen 9 7950X or Ryzen 9 7950X3D, the i9 13900K is not as efficient, but it is still a reliable workhorse. It is important to note that due to its high thermal profile, the processor requires dedicated cooling. Air-cooled coolers may not be sufficient, so investing in an excellent AIO solution is recommended to keep the processor cool during demanding periods.
Budget-friendly CPU: Core i5-13600K
Intel Core i5-13600K
Cores
14
Threads
20
Base speed
P-cores 3.5 GHz / E-cores 2.6 GHz
Boost speed
P-cores 5.1 GHz / E-cores 3.9 GHz
Cache
20MB
TDP
125 W / 181 W boost.
- High core count for an entry level CPU
- High base and boost speeds
- Efficient
- backwards compatible with 12th gen motherboards
- Runs very warm
The Intel i5-13600K is a very power-efficient CPU, especially due to it being a 14-core, 20-thread CPU clocked over 5GHz. It gets nowhere near as hot as its 13900K bigger brother. This is a testament to just how well Intelo can do at the low end, as well as the high end.
The 13900K is incredibly cost-effective, costing between the 7600X and the 7700X on team red’s side, but pretty well outperforming the former and just getting the latter, Intel is seriously a force to be reckoned with this time around.
The 13600K is perfect for average gamers looking to upgrade their CPU without breaking the bank, and it has a full 20 threads to back it up when you want to do some multi-core-based workloads. This is a special balance that not many other CPUs have, they weather aim for one or the other. The 13600K is very much a jack-of-all-trades.
The best of the last generation: Core i9-12900K
Core i9 12900KS
P-cores
8
E-cores
8
Threads
24
P-core clock speed
3.4 / 5.5 (GHz)
E-core clock speed
2.5 / 4.0 (GHz)
Base CPU power
150W
- Very powerful
- Cool packaging
- No bundled cooler
- very expensive
- Barely more powerful than the 12900K
- Hard to cool
The Intel i9-12900K is Intel’s latest flagship CPU, coming to the table boasting an abundance of high-performance benchmarking results and great overclocking potential – when paired with the right Z690 motherboard. Whilst Ryzen held the crown in terms of best overall CPU, the 12900K may have just snuck it back – especially when it comes to out-the-box gaming and overclocking. As far as gaming is concerned, the 12900K outperforms the Ryzen in almost every scenario. You can see the full results here.
The new 16-core/24-thread processor is clocked at a base speed of 3.9GHz and can be boosted to 5.20GHz quite easily. It can smash pretty much everything you throw at it out of the box and will only be slowed by the inevitable GPU bottleneck.
That being said, the real fun comes when users want to overclock this CPU. It is one of the best out there for overclocking and initial reports have seen extreme cooling setups reach 7GHz on a single core. That’s pretty damn impressive, to say the least. If you don’t have liquid Nitrogen at hand, don’t worry, you’ll still be able to see healthy improvements in clock speed with a decent AIO cooler thanks to the Z690 being so supportive of overclocking.
Overall, whilst this probably isn’t the best value-for-money Intel CPU, it’s definitely the best right out of the box.
How we choose
Choosing new hardware is never easy. It usually involves hours of intense product research, user feedback, and a whole host of other considerations to get anywhere close to a definitive decision.
If you aren’t tech-savvy and struggle to put the time aside to go through the above requirements, you may end up purchasing a piece of hardware that simply isn’t right for your specific needs.
Fear not though, friends! Here at WePC, we like to take the stress of research away and transform the whole process into an easy-to-follow, complete buyer’s guide. That’s right, our team of PC enthusiasts has done all the hard work for you!
What’s new with lntel’s 13th gen CPUs?
A few changes have been made to the 13th-generation CPUs in comparison to Alder Lake. Despite this, many features have remained the same.
Intel has decided to redesign the cores in the 13th gen CPUs and has labeled them “Raptor Cove.” This modification has allowed for improved speed paths of up to 600MHz compared to the Alder Lake cores.
The 13th gen Raptor Lake CPUs are developed using the same Intel 7 manufacturing process as Alder Lake. However, this time, an upgraded 3rd gen SuperFin transistor has been incorporated, which has significantly enhanced channel mobility.
Moreover, Intel has allocated a larger L2 cache and has introduced a new dynamic prefecture algorithm called “L2P,” providing 2MB of L2 cache per core.
In some cases, the TDP has risen substantially to 253W, but this is only for the high-end CPUs, such as the 13900K and 13900KS. You will need a significant cooling solution to keep both CPUs within healthy operating temperatures.
Apart from these alterations and some enhancements to DDR5 memory speed compatibilities, not much has changed. The iGPU remains the same as the previous generation (UHD 770).
Intel’s little.BIG technology
There have been some changes within the last two CPU generations, Intel has incorporated its little.BIG technology into its CPU. This technology differs massively from the cores we’re used to, and here’s why.
Intel’s little big technology is a CPU design strategy that combines two types of processor cores, a “big” core, and a “little” core, onto a single chip. The big core is designed for high performance and can handle demanding tasks, while the little core is designed for efficiency and can handle less demanding tasks with lower power consumption.
This approach is used to optimize the balance between performance and power consumption, allowing for better battery life in portable devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops. When the device is performing less demanding tasks, the little core can handle the workload and save power. However, when more demanding tasks require more processing power, the big core can kick in and provide the necessary performance boost.
Intel’s little big technology is similar to ARM’s big.LITTLE technology, which is also a CPU design strategy that uses a combination of big and little cores. However, Intel’s approach is different in that it uses Intel’s x86 architecture, which is different from ARM’s architecture. Additionally, Intel’s approach also allows for seamless switching between the big and little cores, which can be done on a per-thread basis, allowing for even more precise power management.
The task delegation in Windows is handled by the Task scheduler and will be handled by a similar system in other operating systems.
Best Intel CPU: Things to consider
Understanding the fundamental specifications of a hardware component is one of the most important things to know when purchasing PC products. Learning the specifications of a processor (and how each spec affects the performance of your build) will ensure your next purchase is right for your specific needs.
Below, we’ve taken the time to lay out most of the specifications that come with a processor, and how each can affect you from a gaming, workflow, and general-use scenario.
Cores And Threads
The performance of a processor is significantly influenced by the number of its CPU cores. Essentially, each CPU core is a distinct processor that resides within the same physical CPU package. As a result, multiple cores allow the CPU to carry out several instructions simultaneously, which can enhance the overall performance speed.
When a CPU has several cores, it can distribute the workload among them, enabling each core to undertake a distinct task simultaneously. This technique is referred to as parallel processing, which can significantly boost the CPU’s throughput and overall performance.
For instance, if a CPU has four cores, it can handle four different tasks simultaneously, with each core managing one of them. This can yield much faster performance than a single-core CPU that would have to accomplish each task sequentially, one after another.
Furthermore, having multiple CPU cores can also assist in multitasking. For example, if you are simultaneously running various applications, each core can manage a different application, allowing them to operate together without interfering with each other’s performance.
When purchasing a new processor, the following recommendations are generally suggested:
- 4 Cores: Suitable for general use, light browsing, and very light gaming
- 8 Cores: Decent for gaming, moderate multitasking, and all general-use purposes
- 16 Cores or more: Enthusiast-level CPU that can handle almost anything thrown at it. Very effective for rendering, multitasking, and other CPU-intensive tasks.
Clock speed
CPU clock speed refers to the frequency at which a CPU executes instructions. Generally speaking, a higher clock speed means that a CPU can execute more instructions per second, which can result in faster overall performance.
In terms of gaming performance, CPU clock speed is one of the factors that can affect game performance, especially in games that require a lot of CPU processing power. For example, games that involve a lot of physics calculations, AI calculations, or large-scale multiplayer games can put a heavy load on the CPU.
In such scenarios, a higher clock speed can help the CPU to execute instructions more quickly, allowing the game to run more smoothly. This is particularly true in games where the CPU is the bottleneck, meaning that the CPU is the limiting factor that prevents the game from running at a higher frame rate.
Overall, whether you’re gaming or doing high-intensive workflows, you always want to get the highest clock speed your budget can afford.
IPC
IPC, short for Instructions per Cycle or Instructions per Clock, refers to the number of instructions that a CPU can execute during one clock cycle. This measure indicates the CPU’s efficiency in processing instructions with each cycle, and a higher IPC means that the CPU can perform more instructions in a given time, which results in faster and more efficient task completion.
It’s important to note that the IPC can vary depending on the complexity of the instruction being executed. Some instructions require more time to execute than others, which can affect the overall IPC of the CPU.
Several factors affect IPC, including the CPU’s architecture, clock speed, cache size, and memory bandwidth. CPUs with larger cache sizes and faster memory bandwidth tend to have a higher IPC because they can access data more quickly. CPUs with higher clock speeds, on the other hand, can execute more instructions per second, which also contributes to higher IPC.
Although IPC is not often advertised as a metric, it’s still an essential measure of a CPU’s performance efficiency. CPUs in higher generations usually have a better IPC because they have more advanced cores. Even if a newer CPU has the same clock speed as an older CPU with lesser cores, it will likely still have a higher IPC due to the core enhancements in the newer generation.
Socket types
CPU socket types refer to the physical interface between a CPU and the motherboard. Each CPU socket type is specifically designed to accommodate a particular type of CPU, and they are not interchangeable. Different CPU socket types are built to support different CPU architectures, which implies that a CPU intended for one socket type cannot be installed in another socket type.
There are several CPU socket types available, each with its own distinct set of specifications. It’s important to keep in mind that CPU socket types are not cross-compatible. Therefore, when constructing a computer, it’s essential to choose a motherboard that supports the CPU socket type of the CPU you intend to use.
Each CPU belongs to a specific socket type, and although all of the CPUs in this guide share the same socket, that will not be the case indefinitely. In the past, Intel lagged behind AMD in terms of backward compatibility, mainly because Intel released a new socket type with almost every new CPU. However, this time, it appears that the LGA 1700 socket type is intended to support multiple generations of Intel processors, marking a significant change in Intel’s approach.
When it comes to backward compatibility, some motherboard manufacturers may release BIOS updates that provide support for newer CPU models, but it’s crucial to check for compatibility before attempting to install a new CPU.
TDP
TDP (Thermal Design Power) refers to the quantity of heat that a CPU produces and the amount of power it necessitates to function under regular operating conditions. It is typically measured in watts and is a critical aspect to consider when choosing a CPU for a computer.
The TDP of a CPU is determined based on the maximum amount of power it will use under typical usage situations, such as running applications, gaming, or performing other tasks. It encompasses not just the power used by the CPU itself, but also any other components that are attached to it, such as memory and storage.
For instance, the 13900KS can produce an enormous TDP of 253W at peak load, which implies that using anything other than a 360mm AIO or full custom loop would be unwise.
We were even able to cause the Core i9-13900K to throttle by 13% when we subjected it to stress testing using Aida64.
The TDP is an important consideration because it determines the amount of cooling required to keep the CPU operating at a safe temperature. CPUs that have higher TDPs generally require more robust cooling solutions, such as larger heatsinks or liquid cooling systems, to dissipate the heat generated by the CPU.
How to choose the best Intel CPU for you
If you’re building a gaming PC, choosing the right Intel CPU is critical. The CPU is the brain of your computer, and it’s responsible for handling all the calculations and processing that are required to run your favorite games. With so many different Intel CPUs on the market, however, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best choice for your needs. In this section of the article, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide on how to choose the right Intel CPU for your gaming PC.
Evaluate Your Needs The first step in choosing the right Intel CPU for your gaming PC is to evaluate your needs. Consider the types of games you plan to play, your budget, and any other specific requirements you may have. For example, if you’re planning to play AAA games, you’ll need a CPU with high clock speeds and multiple cores.
Research Intel CPUs Once you have a better understanding of your needs, it’s time to start researching Intel CPUs. Take the time to review the technical specifications of each CPU and compare them to your requirements. Make note of CPUs that meet your requirements and fall within your budget.
Compare CPUs After you’ve identified a few CPUs that meet your needs, it’s time to compare them. Consider factors such as clock speed, core count, cache size, and power consumption. These factors will all impact gaming performance, so it’s essential to evaluate each one carefully.
By following these steps, you can choose the right Intel CPU for your gaming PC and ensure that you get the best possible gaming performance out of your system. Take a look at our Top picks to see if there’s a CPU here that suits your needs.
What is the best 13th gen Intel CPU?
The i9-13900KS central processing unit (CPU) is a highly potent processor that outperforms its rivals in both single and multi-core workloads. Its 24-core and 32-thread abilities establish it as the top multi-threaded CPU in recent times.
Notwithstanding its impressive capabilities, the 13900KS has a high thermal design power (TDP) of 150W base and 253W boost, marking a significant increase from Alder Lake. Nonetheless, this results in a massive performance surge, with Raptor Lake CPUs delivering up to a 15% advancement in single-core performance and up to 41% in multi-core performance. Upgrading the motherboard is not obligatory to access this performance, although it can provide some advantages.
The 13900KS has undergone several upgrades, including the doubling of the L2 CPU cache, allowing the CPU to access larger and faster storage more expeditiously. This averts the CPU from experiencing backlogs that could hinder its processing speed. The 13900KS is also incredibly swift, with a boost core speed of up to 6GHz, establishing it as the fastest core speed presently available. Additionally, it is the quickest naturally boosting CPU in the world.
Best Intel CPU FAQs
What is the best Intel CPU?
The Core i9-13900KS is technically the best CPU if you have the funds to acquire one. It’s incredibly power hungry and requires a lot of cooling to keep under control, so invest wisely.
How good are AMD Ryzen processors compared to Intel?
Ryzen processors are generally considered to be on par with or better than Intel processors in terms of performance and value for money. In recent years, AMD’s Ryzen processors have made significant strides in narrowing the gap with Intel in terms of single-core performance, which was once considered Intel’s strength.
AMD Ryzen processors also typically offer more cores and threads than their Intel counterparts, which makes them particularly well-suited for multi-threaded workloads such as video editing, 3D rendering, and streaming. Additionally, Ryzen processors are often less expensive than their Intel equivalents, which makes them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
That being said, Intel still holds a competitive edge in certain areas such as gaming, where single-core performance is still very important, and certain specialized workloads such as machine learning or scientific computing where Intel’s offerings may have specific advantages. Ultimately, the best processor for a given user will depend on their specific needs and budget, and both Intel and AMD offer a wide range of processors that cater to various use cases.
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Best Intel CPU: Final Word
There you have it, the best CPUs that we think Intel has to offer right now. Thankfully, all of these CPUs belong to the same socket type, so if you have an LGA 1700 motherboard, you can go ahead and acquire any one of these CPUs. The motherboards even come in both DDR4 and DDR5 versions if you need to upgrade but don’t want to shell out for DDR5 – We don’t blame you.
You’ll be in good hands here, whichever you pick. Whether you want to blaze through every game on the market with a 13900KS or chill out with some light gaming and work-related tasks with the 13600K. We have you covered.
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