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Intel Core i5 11600K Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£200
  • Avg. price in US: ~$190
  • PassMark benchmark result: 19502
  • N. of physical cores: 6
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.9 GHz

Intel Core i5 11600K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.9

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

5.5

Technical Score

10.0%

9.7

User score

Good
5.5

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

5.3

Performance

18.0%

5.6

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.7

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

3.3

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.9

Platform

1.0%

6.9

Integrated Graphics

Good
9.7

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(842)
amazon
4.2
(20)
amazon
4.8
(9)
amazon
3.9
(4)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 5.6
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.1

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    6.4

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    7.3

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

  • 3.6
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    4.2

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    4.0

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    2.7

    L3 cache

  • intel-core-i5-11600k
intel-core-i5-11600k

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i5-11600K is a mid-range 11th Gen Rocket Lake desktop processor featuring 6 cores, 12 threads, a 3.9 GHz base clock, and a 4.9 GHz max turbo frequency. Built on the 14nm process with a 125W TDP, it includes 12MB of Intel Smart Cache, support for up to 128GB of DDR4-3200 memory, and 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes. Main pros include exceptional single-core performance that rivals higher-end chips in gaming, a significant integrated graphics upgrade with Intel UHD 750, and an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. However, it lacks a bundled thermal solution, consumes more power than previous generations, and trails competitors like the Ryzen 5 5600X in multi-threaded creative workloads.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i5 11600K

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

5.3

Performance

18.0%

5.6

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.7

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

3.3

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.9

Platform

1.0%

6.9

Integrated Graphics

5.5
Intel Core i5 11600K has a technical score of 5.47 points, which is higher than that of 54.9% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.6

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
(842)
amazon
4.2
(20)
amazon
4.8
(9)
amazon
3.9
(4)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.7
Intel Core i5 11600K has a user score of 9.7 points, which is higher than that of 98.7% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
10
Intel Core i5 11600K has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 88.3% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.9

Overall score

40.0%

9.5

Price

7.0
Intel Core i5 11600K has a quality-to-price ratio of 7 points, which is higher than 72.2% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

desktop
Intel Core i5 11600K belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

LGA1200
Intel Core i5 11600K uses the LGA1200 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 69.9% of processors and equal to that of 4.5% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

Z590, H570, B560, H510, Z490, H470, Q470, W480
Intel Core i5 11600K supports Z590, H570, B560, H510, Z490, H470, Q470, W480 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 63.2% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
Intel Core i5 11600K uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

6
Intel Core i5 11600K has 6 CPU cores, which is more than 49.9% of processors and equal to 13.4% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

12
Intel Core i5 11600K offers 12 CPU threads, which is more than 55.1% of processors and equal to 14.1% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

2
Intel Core i5 11600K offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

4.9 GHz
Intel Core i5 11600K reaches a boost clock of 4.9 GHz which is higher than that of 75.6% of processors and equal to that of 4.6% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

6 x 3.9 GHz
Intel Core i5 11600K has a base clock of 6x3.9 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

14 nm
Intel Core i5 11600K uses a 14 nm process node, which is older than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 33.7% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel 14 nm
Intel Core i5 11600K is built on the Intel 14 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 55.2% of processors and equal to that of 29.3% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

12 MB
Intel Core i5 11600K has an L3 cache of 12 MB which is larger than that of 54.4% of processors and equal to that of 9% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

3 MB
Intel Core i5 11600K has an L2 cache of 3 MB which is larger than that of 50.2% of processors and equal to that of 4.4% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

480 KB
Intel Core i5 11600K has an L1 cache of 480 KB which is larger than that of 61.6% of processors and equal to that of 1.9% of processors.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4
Intel Core i5 11600K supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

3,200 MHz
Intel Core i5 11600K supports memory speeds up to 3,200 MHz, which is higher than that of 51.5% of processors and equal to 8.3% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR4-3200 MHz
Intel Core i5 11600K supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-3,200 MHz, which is higher than that of 51.1% of processors and equal to 8.4% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

?
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

128 GB
Intel Core i5 11600K supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 61.9% of processors and equal to 21.4% of processors.
Show more
Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Intel Core i5 11600K includes integrated graphics. 87.6% include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel UHD Graphics 750
Intel Core i5 11600K uses the Intel UHD Graphics 750 integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 55.7% and equal to that in 1.2%.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

32
Intel Core i5 11600K has 32 GPU execution units, which is more than 70.8% of processors and equal to 9.9% of processors.
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

350 MHz
Intel Core i5 11600K has an integrated GPU clock of 350 MHz which is higher than that of 43.5% of processors and equal to that of 29.6% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

AV1 (HW decode)
Intel Core i5 11600K supports AV1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 63.1% of processors and equal to 10.8% of processors.
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

125 W
Intel Core i5 11600K has a TDP of 125 W which is higher than that of 92.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.4% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

125 W
Intel Core i5 11600K has a base power of 125 W which is higher than that of 92.9% of processors and equal to that of 1.5% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

251 W
Intel Core i5 11600K has a boost power of 251 W which is higher than that of 97% of processors and equal to that of 0.1% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

56 seconds
Intel Core i5 11600K has a turbo duration of 56 seconds which is shorter than that of 96.7% of processors and equal to that of 3.3% of processors.
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

yes
Intel Core i5 11600K supports configurable TDP. 52.9% support configurable TDP.
cTDP: 95 W
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Intel Core i5 11600K vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i5 11600K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 11600K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 50.3% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,211 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,211 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.2,211 vs 1,471
  • 14% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
    When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4.7 GHz

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.4.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 34.5% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,340 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,340 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.3,340 vs 2,483
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i5 11600K supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (4 vs 3.0).
    What it is: The newest PCIe generation the processor can use directly for graphics cards, SSDs, and other high-speed expansion devices.
    When it matters: When you want support for newer GPUs or SSDs, or more bandwidth for high-speed expansion hardware.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 4.0

    Intel Core i5 11600K supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (4 vs 3.0).4.0 vs 3.0
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i5 11600K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
    When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 11600K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 78.7% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (8,563 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (8,563 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.8,563 vs 4,793
  • 54.3% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (4,293 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 score that reflects how well the processor handles long, heavy rendering workloads across many cores.
    When it matters: When you care about sustained multi-core performance in rendering, compiling, heavy creation work, or productivity workloads that use many threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4700

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (4,293 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.4,293 vs 2,783
  • Includes crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i5 11600K includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 11600K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1200 vs FP2).
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i5 11600K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 50.3% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,211 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 14% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 34.5% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,340 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 78.7% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (8,563 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 54.3% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (4,293 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 85.2% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (19,502 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 23.6% higher Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (598 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i5 11600K has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 11 higher clock multiplier
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (39 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i5 11600K uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Rocket Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • 50% larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (12 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i5 11600K supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (4 vs 3.0).
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i5 11600K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 4 more PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i5 11600K has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (20 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i5 11600K has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.

Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
  • 55.1% larger die size
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher die size than the average processor (276 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i5 11600K supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
  • 3.92x higher boost power
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (251 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 2.78x higher base power
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 2.78x higher TDP
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher TDP than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 28 seconds shorter turbo duration
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (56 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
  • 3.92x higher boost power
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (251 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
    What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
    When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <50 W

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (251 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.251 W vs 64 W
  • 2.78x higher base power
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.125 W vs 45 W
  • 55.1% larger die size
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher die size than the average processor (276 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
    What it is: The physical area of the processor die, usually measured in square millimeters.
    When it matters: When you are comparing chip scale, packaging density, or broader design differences rather than direct user-visible performance.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <150 mm²

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher die size than the average processor (276 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².276 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
    When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <10 nm

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
  • 2.78x higher TDP
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher TDP than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
    When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a higher TDP than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.125 W vs 45 W
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i5 11600K supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
    What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
    When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i5 11600K supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).AV1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)
  • 28 seconds shorter turbo duration
    Intel Core i5 11600K has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (56 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
    What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
    When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=28 s

    Intel Core i5 11600K has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (56 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.56 seconds vs 28 seconds
Total
Cache & Architecture
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i5 11600K and other processors

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.8
842 Reviews
amazon
4.2
20 Reviews
amazon
4.8
9 Reviews
amazon
3.9
4 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i5 11600K?

  • Excellent single-core performance for gaming and general tasks
  • Competitive pricing compared to its main rival, the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
  • Significant 19% IPC (Instructions Per Cycle) improvement over the 10th-gen i5-10600K
  • Solid integrated graphics (UHD 750) performance upgrade over the previous generation
  • Support for PCIe 4.0, enabling faster speeds for next-gen NVMe SSDs
  • Unlocked multiplier allows for manual overclocking and performance tuning

What customers dislike about Intel Core i5 11600K?

  • High power consumption, especially when overclocked, reaching up to 200W+
  • Does not include a stock cooler; requires a beefy cooling solution (240mm AIO recommended)
  • Inferior multi-threaded performance in creative apps compared to similarly priced Ryzen chips
  • Requires an LGA 1200 socket motherboard, which can be an expensive platform upgrade
  • Limited overclocking headroom due to being highly pushed out of the box
  • Can run quite hot under heavy stress if not paired with premium cooling

Expert reviews

U
uk.pcmag.com
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K - Review 2021 - PCMag UK

The Intel Core i5-11600K is identified as a standout 11th Gen "Rocket Lake" processor, offering strong single-threaded performance with a 20% IPC gain over its predecessor and providing a compelling mid-range option for gamers. While it features improved integrated UHD 750 graphics and competitive pricing, it faces limitations in multi-threaded creative tasks compared to AMD rivals...Read more

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thefpsreview.com
05/04/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K CPU Review - Page 3 of 12

The Intel Core i5-11600K, a 6-core/12-thread 11th Gen "Rocket Lake" processor, delivers strong single-threaded performance and notable IPC gains over previous generations, positioning it as a capable mid-range choice for gaming and productivity. The 125W TDP chip supports DDR4-3200 memory and features updated Intel UHD Graphics 750, with gaming tests showing it can outperform...Read more

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techradar.com
02/04/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K review - TechRadar

The TechRadar review identifies the Intel Core i5-11600K as a standout 11th-generation "Rocket Lake" processor that delivers exceptional gaming performance at a competitive price point, effectively competing with the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. Key advantages include its high single-core performance for gaming, support for PCIe 4.0 for fast SSDs, and an aggressive launch price of roughly...Read more

T
trustedreviews.com
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K Review(www.anandtech.com) | March 30 2021 | Intel Rocket Lake (14nm) Review: Core i9-11900K, i7-11700K, and i5-11600K

The Trusted Reviews analysis identifies the Intel Core i5-11600K as a strong mid-range processor, lauded for exceptional gaming performance that matches higher-end chips in benchmarks like Horizon Zero Dawn. Key strengths include improved single-core speeds and the addition of PCIe 4.0 support for faster SSDs. However, the chip is characterized as a "one-trick pony" with relatively...Read more

K
kitguru.net
31/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K Review - KitGuru

The KitGuru review by Leo Waldock highlights the Intel Core i5-11600K as a strong, high-value 6-core processor offering roughly a 10% performance increase over its predecessor in gaming, while introducing native PCIe Gen 4.0 support. The CPU acts as a competitive alternative to the Ryzen 5 5600X, providing excellent gaming performance and holding up well in single-core tasks, though...Read more

P
pcgamer.com
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5 11600K review - PC Gamer

The Intel Core i5-11600K is identified by PC Gamer as the standout "nostalgia chip" of the Rocket Lake lineup, offering 6 cores, 12 threads, and a 19% IPC increase over its predecessor. It boasts exceptional single-core performance, directly rivaling the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X in gaming benchmarks with more aggressive pricing. Key pros include high-value gaming performance and PCIe 4.0...Read more

P
pcmag.com
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K Review(www.techpowerup.com) | March 30 2021 | Intel Core i5-11600K Review - Impressive Value

The PCMag review highlights the Intel Core i5-11600K as a competitive, midrange 11th Gen "Rocket Lake" processor that offers strong single-threaded performance and improved integrated graphics. Priced at $262, it aims to be a budget-friendly option for gamers, delivering solid performance without the extreme heat issues found in higher-end models. However, it generally trails the...Read more

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techspot.com
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K vs. AMD Ryzen 5 5600 vs. Core i5-10600K

The Intel Core i5-11600K offers a significant, IPC-focused performance boost over its predecessor for productivity, effectively matching AMD’s Ryzen 5 5600X while featuring aggressive, competitive pricing. While gaming performance is strong—including PCIe 4.0 support—the CPU generally trails the Ryzen 5 5600X by about 7% in 1080p tests. Major drawbacks include limited overclocking...Read more

H
hardwarecanucks.com
30/03/2021
Battling Intel's Dumpster Fire - i5-11600K Review Would you like a comparison of the gaming performance or power consumption results found across thes...

The Hardware Canucks review identifies the Intel Core i5-11600K as the standout "saving grace" of the 11th Gen Rocket Lake lineup, offering a 6-core, 12-thread configuration that delivers strong performance gains over the 10600K. Key pros highlighted include competitive pricing, better availability, solid high-refresh-rate gaming, and native PCIe 4.0 support for faster storage....Read more

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tomshardware.com
17/04/2021
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X vs Intel Core i5-11600K

The AMD Ryzen 5 5600X leads in 1080p gaming performance, operating with superior 65W power efficiency, but historically faced high prices due to low stock. Conversely, the Intel Core i5-11600K provides a more affordable, readily available option with better, though power-hungry, productivity performance that benefits from integrated graphics. While AMD wins on efficiency, Intel...Read more

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tomshardware.com
10/04/2021
Intel Core i9-11900K and Core i5-11600K Review

The Tom's Hardware review of Intel’s 11th Gen Rocket Lake processors describes the Core i9-11900K as a high-performance gaming chip that, despite its top-tier single-threaded speeds, struggles to justify a high price point due to a regression to 8 cores. It frequently trails the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X in multi-threaded tasks and suffers from exceptionally high power consumption and...Read more

M
m.hexus.net
08/04/2021
Review: Intel Core i5-11600K

The Hexus review of the Intel Core i5-11600K highlights a competitive 6-core/12-thread chip featuring significant IPC gains and a 27% single-thread performance boost over its predecessor. While offering PCIe 4.0 support and better stock availability, the processor is limited by high power consumption and marginal gaming improvements over the 10th Gen. Ultimately, high operating...Read more

G
guru3d.com
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K processor review

The Intel Core i5-11600K, a 6-core/12-thread processor based on the 14nm Cypress Cove architecture, is identified by Guru3D as a strong performer, offering competitive gaming speeds that often rival the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. Key advantages include PCIe 4.0 support and improved integrated Xe-LP graphics, providing significant value in the mid-range segment. However, the chip faces...Read more

F
forum.lesnumeriques.com
30/03/2026
Intel Core i5-11600K: A Great Mid-Range Processor for Gamers

The Intel Core i5-11600K is a 6-core/12-thread "Rocket Lake" processor featuring Cypress Cove cores, a 3.9 GHz base clock, and PCIe 4.0 support. It offers strong single-core performance for gaming, showing a 10% improvement over the previous generation in titles like Death Stranding. However, the 14nm process leads to high power consumption, often reaching 140W–150W under load. Pros...Read more

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D
digitec.ch
30/03/2026
Intel Core i5-11600K: progress in applications, near-stagnation in games

The Intel Core i5-11600K review from Digitec indicates that the Cypress Cove architecture provides a 19–20% IPC boost for productivity, matching the Ryzen 5 5600X in applications. However, the chip, which lacks a bundled cooler, suffers from high power consumption (up to 180W) and thermal issues due to the 14nm process. Gaming performance is described as stagnant, showing...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hardwarecooking.fr
30/03/2026
Intel Core i5-11600K Review: The Go-To 6-Core Processor?

The Intel Core i5-11600K, a 6-core/12-thread Rocket Lake processor, offers strong single-threaded performance and gaming capabilities, often matching higher-end chips in frame rates. While supporting PCIe 4.0 and offering a good price-to-performance ratio, it suffers from high power consumption and significant heat generation, requiring robust cooling solutions. Despite trailing...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
clubic.com
16/04/2021
Intel Rocket Lake-S Review: The Core i5-11600K performs very well

According to the Clubic review, Intel's 11th Gen "Rocket Lake-S" processors, specifically the Core i9-11900K and i5-11600K, deliver significant architectural improvements including up to 19% higher IPC and native PCIe 4.0 support on a refined 14nm node. While offering stellar single-core performance, the 8-core i9-11900K suffers from high power consumption, extreme thermal output,...Read more

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P
profesionalreview.com
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K Review: Benchmarks and Analysis

The Intel Core i5-11600K is identified as a standout, mid-range 6-core processor from the 11th Gen Rocket Lake-S family, featuring significant IPC improvements of up to 19% over the previous generation and supporting PCIe 4.0. It excels in single-threaded tasks and gaming, often rivaling higher-tier chips, while offering improved UHD 750 integrated graphics. While positioned as a...Read more

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H
hackergirl.com.mx
23/04/2021
Intel Core i9-11900K and Core i5-11600K | Review

Intel’s 11th Gen Rocket Lake processors, specifically the Core i9-11900K and Core i5-11600K, focus on improved IPC and single-core performance despite retaining a 14nm process. The i9-11900K features 8 cores and "Adaptive Boost Technology," while the i5-11600K offers 6 cores and presents a strong value for gamers. Key advantages include leading gaming performance and the...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
geeknetic.es
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K Review: Full In-Depth Analysis

The Intel Core i5-11600K is a 6-core/12-thread Rocket Lake-S processor operating on a refined 14nm node, designed to balance mid-range gaming performance and value, featuring PCIe 4.0 support. It delivers excellent 1080p gaming performance with significant IPC improvements, while the integrated UHD Graphics 750 provides usable light gaming capability. However, the 125W TDP chip...Read more

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G
galaxus.it
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K: progress in productivity, little to nothing in gaming

The Intel Core i5-11600K review on Galaxus highlights a 6-core/12-thread "Rocket Lake" processor that delivers strong productivity gains, featuring a 19% IPC increase and PCIe 4.0 support. While application performance in benchmarks like Cinebench sees a 10–20% jump over the previous generation, gaming improvements are characterized as marginal, failing to surpass AMD's Ryzen 5000...Read more

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T
tech.everyeye.it
09/07/2021
Intel i5-11600K Review: A great gaming CPU at the right price

The Everyeye.it review highlights the Intel Core i5-11600K as a competitive mid-range gaming CPU offering strong performance for its price point, effectively challenging the AMD Ryzen 5 5600X. It features Cypress Cove architecture for high IPC, PCIe 4.0 support for fast SSDs, and capable UHD Graphics 750, though it suffers from high power consumption and thermal output due to 14nm...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hwupgrade.it
30/03/2021
Intel Core i9-11900K, i7-11700K and i5-11600K: Rocket Lake put to the test

The Intel 11th Gen Rocket Lake-S processors (i9-11900K, i7-11700K, i5-11600K) utilize a 10nm "Cypress Cove" architecture backported to 14nm, resulting in a 19% IPC increase and high gaming frame rates. These CPUs offer native PCIe 4.0 support for improved peripheral bandwidth, though they come with significantly higher power consumption and temperatures, necessitating high-end...Read more

(Translated)Show original
D
digitec.ch
30/03/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K: Progress in Applications, Little to Nothing in Gaming

The Digitec review of the Intel Core i5-11600K characterizes the 11th-gen processor as a strong performer in productivity tasks but a minor upgrade for gaming, offering only a roughly 5% average increase over the previous i5-10600K at 1080p. The chip provides improved single-threaded performance, updated integrated graphics based on the Cypress Cove architecture, and, crucially,...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
28/07/2021
Intel Core i5-11600K Review - Tweakers

The Intel Core i5-11600K, a 6-core/12-thread Rocket Lake processor, offers a significant performance boost over the previous generation, boasting roughly 20% higher IPC in applications. It features a 3.9 GHz base clock, 4.9 GHz boost, and brings PCIe 4.0 support for faster storage to the mainstream platform. The processor excels in gaming, delivering a ~5% average improvement over...Read more

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T
tweakers.net
07/09/2021
Processor Best Buy Guide - The best CPUs in September 2021

In September 2021, the Tweakers Processor Best Buy Guide reported that AMD's Ryzen 5000 series dominated the market, outperforming Intel's 11th-gen chips in both gaming and productivity, with the Ryzen 5 5600X lauded as the top mainstream choice for its efficiency and strong single-core speed, despite higher pricing. The maturing AM4 platform was a major advantage, though global...Read more

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T
tweakers.net
09/04/2021
Processor Best Buy Guide: The best CPUs in April 2021

The April 2021 Tweakers Processor Best Buy Guide highlighted a competitive market, with Intel’s 11th Gen "Rocket Lake" CPUs challenging AMD’s dominant Ryzen 5000 series across budget, gaming, and productivity categories based on extensive benchmarking. For budget users, the Intel Core i3-10105 was recommended for its high clock speeds and value, though the segment faced limited...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
tweakers.net
30/03/2021
Intel 11th Gen 'Rocket Lake' Review

The Tweakers review of Intel's Rocket Lake-S processors highlights a 14nm back-port of the "Cypress Cove" architecture, providing a roughly 19% IPC increase that significantly boosts gaming performance, accompanied by PCIe 4.0 support and enhanced Xe integrated graphics. However, the 11th Gen lineup suffers from high power consumption, elevated operating temperatures, and a reduced...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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