Intel Core i9 13900K Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£480
  • Avg. price in US: ~$530
  • PassMark benchmark result: 58239
  • N. of physical cores: 24
  • CPU boost clock speed: 5.8 GHz

Intel Core i9 13900K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

8.5

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%

8.5

Technical Score

10.0%

9.2

User score

Excellent
8.5

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%

9.3

Performance

18.0%

8.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

9.1

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

2.0

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.6

Platform

1.0%

8.0

Integrated Graphics

Excellent
9.2

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%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(1930)
amazon
4.4
(798)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Exceptional
  • 8.7
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.1

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    8.7

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    10

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    6.1

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    10

    N. of physical cores

  • 9.1
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    9.3

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    10

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    10

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    6.1

    L3 cache

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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 i9-13900K is a high-performance 13th Gen Raptor Lake flagship processor featuring a hybrid architecture with 24 cores (8 Performance-cores and 16 Efficient-cores) and 32 threads. It operates at a 3.0 GHz P-core base frequency with a maximum Thermal Velocity Boost speed of up to 5.8 GHz, supported by 36MB of L3 Intel Smart Cache and compatibility with both DDR4 (3200 MT/s) and DDR5 (5600 MT/s) memory. Its main pros include industry-leading single-core and multi-threaded performance ideal for intensive gaming and professional content creation, alongside support for PCIe 5.0 and backwards compatibility with 600-series motherboards. However, the processor has significant cons, specifically a very high maximum turbo power draw of 253W that leads to extreme operating temperatures, often requiring premium liquid cooling to avoid thermal throttling under heavy loads.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i9 13900K

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%

9.3

Performance

18.0%

8.0

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

9.1

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

2.0

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.6

Platform

1.0%

8.0

Integrated Graphics

8.5
Intel Core i9 13900K has a technical score of 8.47 points, which is higher than that of 98.1% 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%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(1930)
amazon
4.4
(798)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

9.2
Intel Core i9 13900K has a user score of 9.16 points, which is higher than that of 89.2% 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 i9 13900K 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%

8.5

Overall score

40.0%

8.0

Price

8.4
Intel Core i9 13900K has a quality-to-price ratio of 8.4 points, which is higher than 99% 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 i9 13900K belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% and equal to 37.9%.
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

LGA1700
Intel Core i9 13900K uses the LGA1700 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 86.1% and equal to that of 7.4%.
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

Z790, H770, B760, Z690, H670, B660, H610, Q670, W680
Intel Core i9 13900K supports Z790, H770, B760, Z690, H670, B660, H610, Q670, W680 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 86.2% and equal to 2.2%.
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 i9 13900K uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% and equal to that of 98.3%.
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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+

24
Intel Core i9 13900K has 24 CPU cores, which is more than 96.6% and equal to 2.1%.
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+

32
Intel Core i9 13900K offers 32 CPU threads, which is more than 95% and equal to 3%.
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

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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

5.8 GHz
Intel Core i9 13900K reaches a boost clock of 5.8 GHz which is higher than that of 99.5% and equal to that of 0.3%.
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

8 x 3.0 GHz & 16 x 2.2 GHz
Intel Core i9 13900K has a base clock of 8x3.0 GHz & 16x2.2 GHz which is equal to that of 100%.
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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

10 nm
Intel Core i9 13900K uses a 10 nm process node, which is more advanced than that of 52.3% and equal to that of 19.1%.
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 7
Intel Core i9 13900K is built on the Intel 7 foundry process, which is more advanced than that of 66.2% and equal to that of 14.9%.
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

36 MB
Intel Core i9 13900K has an L3 cache of 36 MB which is larger than that of 92.7% and equal to that of 1.8%.
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

32 MB
Intel Core i9 13900K has an L2 cache of 32 MB which is larger than that of 96.7% and equal to that of 1.6%.
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

2,176 KB
Intel Core i9 13900K has an L1 cache of 2,176 KB which is larger than that of 96.8% and equal to that of 1%.
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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/DDR5
Intel Core i9 13900K supports DDR DDR4/DDR5, which is newer than in 79.1% and equal to that of 9.7%.
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

5,600 MHz
Intel Core i9 13900K supports memory speeds up to 5,600 MHz, which is higher than in 79.8% and equal to 4%.
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

DDR5-5600 MHz
Intel Core i9 13900K supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR5-5,600 MHz, which is higher than in 80.3% and equal to 5.1%.
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

7,800 MHz
Intel Core i9 13900K supports XMP/EXPO memory speeds up to 7,800 MHz, which is higher than in 99.5%.
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

192 GB
Intel Core i9 13900K supports up to 192 GB of memory, which is more than 83.3% and equal to 6%.
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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 i9 13900K 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 770
Intel Core i9 13900K uses the Intel UHD Graphics 770 integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 56.9% and equal to that in 4.9%.
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 i9 13900K has 32 GPU execution units, which is more than 70.8% and equal to 9.9%.
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

300 MHz
Intel Core i9 13900K has an integrated GPU clock of 300 MHz which is lower than that of 57% and equal to that of 38.7%.
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

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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 i9 13900K has a TDP of 125 W which is higher than that of 92.9% and equal to that of 1.4%.
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 i9 13900K has a base power of 125 W which is higher than that of 92.9% and equal to that of 1.5%.
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

253 W
Intel Core i9 13900K has a boost power of 253 W which is higher than that of 97.3% and equal to that of 0.8%.
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

N/A
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

no
Intel Core i9 13900K does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i9 13900K vs the average processor

  • 18 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i9 13900K has more CPU cores than the average processor (24 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU 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+

    Intel Core i9 13900K has more CPU cores than the average processor (24 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.24 vs 6
  • 4.42x higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (21,183 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 i9 13900K has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (21,183 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.21,183 vs 4,793
  • 5.53x higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (58,239 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (58,239 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.58,239 vs 10,532.5
  • 85.2% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,599 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 i9 13900K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,599 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.4,599 vs 2,483
  • 2.03x higher single-core score
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,984 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 i9 13900K has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,984 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.2,984 vs 1,471
  • 34.9% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.8 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 i9 13900K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.5.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 24 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i9 13900K has more CPU threads than the average processor (32 vs 8). The average processor has 8 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+

    Intel Core i9 13900K has more CPU threads than the average processor (32 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.32 vs 8
  • 12.8x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (32 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
    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

    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (32 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.32 MB vs 2.5 MB
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i9 13900K uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1700 vs FP2).
  • Includes crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i9 13900K includes crypto acceleration, the average processor does not.
  • Supports HMP
    Intel Core i9 13900K supports HMP, the average processor does not.
  • 18 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i9 13900K has more CPU cores than the average processor (24 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 4.42x higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (21,183 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 5.53x higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (58,239 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 85.2% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (4,599 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 2.03x higher single-core score
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,984 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 34.9% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5.8 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 24 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i9 13900K has more CPU threads than the average processor (32 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 75.4% higher Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (849 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i9 13900K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 12.8x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (32 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 4.5x larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (36 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 4x more L2 per core
    Intel Core i9 13900K has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • Uses big.LITTLE design
    Intel Core i9 13900K uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
  • 5.67x larger L1 cache
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (2,176 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i9 13900K uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Raptor Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • More advanced foundry
    Intel Core i9 13900K uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 7 vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 16.7% smaller process node
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a lower process node than the average processor (10 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i9 13900K supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5.0 + 4.0 vs 3.0).
  • 3x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i9 13900K has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (192 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • 95.6% higher memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (89.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i9 13900K supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5 vs DDR4).
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i9 13900K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 90.9% higher memory speed
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (5,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 4 more PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i9 13900K has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (20 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • Supports ECC memory
    Intel Core i9 13900K supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • 1 more supported displays
    Intel Core i9 13900K has more supported displays than the average processor (4 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i9 13900K supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 44.4% larger die size
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher die size than the average processor (257 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 12.5% less L3 per core
    Intel Core i9 13900K has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 3.95x higher boost power
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (253 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 2.78x higher base power
    Intel Core i9 13900K 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 i9 13900K has a higher TDP than the average processor (125 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i9 13900K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 3.95x higher boost power
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (253 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 i9 13900K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (253 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.253 W vs 64 W
  • 2.78x higher base power
    Intel Core i9 13900K 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 i9 13900K 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
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i9 13900K supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
    What it is: The supported CPU instruction sets and extensions.
    When it matters: When you run software that depends on specific CPU instructions.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i9 13900K supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
  • 44.4% larger die size
    Intel Core i9 13900K has a higher die size than the average processor (257 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 i9 13900K has a higher die size than the average processor (257 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².257 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 2.78x higher TDP
    Intel Core i9 13900K 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 i9 13900K 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
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i9 13900K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
    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

    Intel Core i9 13900K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 12.5% less L3 per core
    Intel Core i9 13900K has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2 MB/core

    Intel Core i9 13900K has less L3 cache per core than the average processor (1.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.1.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core
  • 92% more expensive
    Intel Core i9 13900K is more expensive than the average processor (£480 vs £250).
    Intel Core i9 13900K is more expensive than the average processor (£480 vs £250).£480 vs £250

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i9 13900K and other processors

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i9 13900K?

  • Industry-leading single-core and multi-core performance for gaming and productivity
  • Massive core count (24 cores / 32 threads) excels at heavy multitasking and rendering
  • High boost clock speeds reaching up to 5.8 GHz out of the box
  • Versatile memory support for both DDR4 and faster DDR5 standards
  • Backwards compatibility with many existing Z690 motherboards
  • Excellent for professional content creation like 4K video editing and 3D modeling

What customers dislike about Intel Core i9 13900K?

  • Extreme operating temperatures that frequently hit 100°C and trigger thermal throttling under load
  • Very high power consumption, pulling over 250W-300W during intense workloads
  • Requires expensive, high-end cooling solutions (360mm AIO or better) to maintain performance
  • Reports of long-term stability issues and crashes leading to system instability for some users
  • Diminishing returns for gaming-only builds compared to more affordable i5 or i7 alternatives

Expert reviews

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club386.com
20/10/2022

The Club386 review highlights the Intel Core i9-13900K as a "Raptor Lake" flagship, utilizing 24 cores and 5.8GHz clock speeds to reclaim the top spot in both gaming and productivity. Key advantages include its superior gaming performance against the Ryzen 9 7950X, competitive pricing, and support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory on LGA1700 platforms. However, the chip requires extreme...Read more

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pcper.com
20/10/2022

PC Perspective's review of the Intel Core i9-13900K highlights a 24-core "Raptor Lake" design with 5.8 GHz boost clocks, offering roughly 15% better single-threaded and up to 41% better multi-threaded performance over previous generations. The processor effectively reclaims the performance crown, surpassing the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X in many productivity benchmarks and high-end gaming...Read more

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tweaktown.com
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K "Raptor Lake" CPU, as reviewed by TweakTown, delivers a major performance leap with 24 cores (8 E) and boost speeds up to 5.8GHz, resulting in a 15% single-threaded and 41% multi-threaded performance increase. The CPU dominates gaming and productivity, supported by improved DDR5-5600 stability and LGA1700 socket compatibility, making it a powerful upgrade...Read more

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theverge.com
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, based on Raptor Lake architecture, is a 24-core processor that reclaims the performance crown for Intel with significant multi-threaded gains in creative tasks and a 5.8GHz boost clock. Pros include its 15% single-thread and 41% multi-thread performance boost over the 12900K, along with backwards compatibility with Z690 motherboards and support for PCIe 5.0...Read more

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kitguru.net
20/10/2022

Leo Waldock’s review on KitGuru highlights the Intel Core i9-13900K as a 24-core performance leader that offers massive 40% improvements in multi-threaded workloads and exceptional 5.8GHz single-core speeds. Key advantages include its raw processing power, compatibility with both DDR4/DDR5 on LGA1700, and unmatched performance in gaming and rendering. However, the chip is heavily...Read more

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pcmag.com
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K is a high-performance, 24-core flagship that reclaims the performance crown by iterating on the "Alder Lake" hybrid architecture with 5.8GHz boost speeds, earning an Editors' Choice award for its top-tier, consumer-oriented processing power. The CPU excels in multi-threaded tasks, such as 4K video editing, while offering competitive pricing at $589 and...Read more

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techspot.com
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K is a 24-core, 32-thread CPU that delivers significant performance gains over the previous generation, serving as a top-tier option for both gaming and workstation tasks. It excels in single-core and multi-core workloads, particularly in content creation applications, and benefits from platform flexibility with support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. However,...Read more

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trustedreviews.com
05/04/2023

The Intel Core i9-13900K is identified as a premier, high-performance CPU, featuring a 24-core hybrid architecture that tops both single-core and multi-core benchmarks, surpassing rivals like the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X. Key advantages include its immense processing power, support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, and PCIe 5.0 compatibility, making it ideal for high-end workstations and...Read more

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tomshardware.com
30/10/2022

According to Tom's Hardware, the Intel Core i9-13900K and i5-13600K "Raptor Lake" processors re-establish Intel as a leader in both gaming and productivity performance. The 24-core i9-13900K offers top-tier gaming speeds with a 5.8 GHz boost, while the 14-core i5-13600K provides exceptional value. Key advantages include superior multi-core performance over AMD's Ryzen 7000,...Read more

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computerbase.de
08/12/2022

The Intel NUC 13 Extreme ("Raptor Canyon") transitions to a larger 13.9-liter chassis, prioritizing high-end performance over ultra-compact, small-form-factor design. This redesigned, modular system accommodates full-sized, triple-slot graphics cards and features a Compute Element with desktop-grade Core i9-13900K processors, supporting extensive connectivity including 10Gb...Read more

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galaxus.at
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K is identified by Galaxus as the top-performing CPU, surpassing the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X in both single-core (10% higher) and multi-core (4% higher) Cinebench R23 tests. Boasting 24 cores (8P + 16E), the 13th-gen flagship offers a 46% multi-core performance increase over its predecessor, the i9-12900K. The processor excels in gaming, delivering better frame...Read more

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pcmasters.de
23/10/2023

According to the PCMasters.de review, the Intel Core i9-13900K is a high-performance 24-core processor (8 E) with 32 threads, delivering up to 40% better multi-threaded performance than the 12th generation with its 5.8 GHz boost. Key advantages include massive raw performance in gaming and applications, along with platform flexibility supporting LGA 1700 motherboards with both DDR4...Read more

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digitec.ch
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, as reviewed by Digitec, reclaims the performance crown from AMD with significant gains in single-core and, specifically, multi-core benchmarks, owing to increased efficiency threads. While providing superior 1% and 0.1% low framerates for smoother gaming, the processor demands extreme cooling and power, often hitting 100°C and consuming up to 300 watts...Read more

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chip.de
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, as reviewed by CHIP.de, serves as a high-performance, 24-core flagship processor delivering significant improvements in multi-threaded tasks (roughly 40%) and gaming performance, boasting speeds up to 5.8 GHz. Key advantages include top-tier processing power, DDR5-5600 support, and platform flexibility with backward compatibility, making it ideal for...Read more

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igorslab.de
20/10/2022

Igor’sLAB reviews the Intel Core i9-13900K and i5-13600K, identifying them as powerful, high-efficiency refinements of hybrid architecture that push monolithic silicon to its thermal and power limits. The i9-13900K sets performance records in gaming and multi-threaded tasks, though it demands heavy cooling and draws extreme power (250W–300W). The i5-13600K is identified as a...Read more

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computerbase.de
20/10/2022

ComputerBase reviews Intel's 13th Gen "Raptor Lake" processors, highlighting the Core i9-13900K's market-leading multi-core performance and the i5-13600K as an excellent value-for-money option. The lineup successfully reclaims the gaming performance crown, though it comes with extreme power requirements for the top-end models. While offering stellar speed, the processors,...Read more

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comptoir-hardware.com
20/10/2022

The Intel 13th Gen "Raptor Lake" lineup, including the Core i9-13900K, i7-13700K, and i5-13600K, delivers a significant performance leap with higher clock speeds and E-core counts, effectively challenging competition in multi-threaded tasks. The review highlights the i9-13900K for top-tier performance, while the i5-13600K is identified as a strong, accessible option for gamers. The...Read more

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hardwarecooking.fr
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, as analyzed in the review, is a 24-core, 32-thread flagship processor that delivers superior single-core and multi-core performance, achieving boosts up to 5.8 GHz. It offers strong value through its compatibility with both Z690/Z790 motherboards and DDR4/DDR5 memory, while outperforming previous generations by up to 48% in multi-threaded tasks. However,...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
20/10/2022

The Tom's Hardware France review of Intel's 13th Gen Raptor Lake processors, specifically the Core i9-13900K and Core i5-13600K, highlights a significant generational performance leap, offering top-tier gaming and productivity capabilities. Key advantages include support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory on existing LGA 1700 platforms, offering a flexible, cost-effective upgrade path,...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, as reviewed by Les Numériques and other sources, reclaims the performance crown by using 24 cores and 32 threads to deliver a 40% multi-threaded performance leap over its predecessor. Clocking up to 5.8 GHz, it is the fastest consumer CPU for gaming and creative workloads. Key advantages include immense single and multi-core performance in benchmarks like...Read more

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lemondeinformatique.fr
24/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K is identified as a "brutal" and uncompromising flagship with 24 cores (8P + 16E) and 32 threads, reaching speeds up to 5.8 GHz. The review highlights superior single-core and multi-threaded performance, often outpacing the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X, alongside platform flexibility with Z690 compatibility and DDR4/DDR5 support. Conversely, the CPU is described as hot...Read more

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pausehardware.com
20/10/2022

The Pause Hardware review of the Intel Core i9-13900K highlights the Raptor Lake flagship's 24-core architecture and 5.8 GHz boost speeds, resulting in roughly 15% faster single-core and 50% faster multi-core performance over the previous generation. It excels in gaming and professional applications due to increased cache, while supporting both DDR4 and DDR5 memory for flexible...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
02/03/2023

The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D leads in gaming due to its 3D V-Cache technology, offering superior energy efficiency. Pros include unparalleled gaming performance and low power consumption, while cons are a premium price and slightly lower productivity performance compared to the standard 7950X. Conversely, the Intel Core i9-13900K excels in productivity with high clock speeds and better...Read more

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elchapuzasinformatico.com
07/03/2023

The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D is identified as the superior gaming processor, offering 3.8% higher performance than the Intel Core i9-13900K while using only 53% of the power, resulting in better efficiency and lower temperatures. However, the Intel i9-13900K maintains an advantage in professional, multi-threaded productivity tasks and presents a better value, whereas the 7950X3D is...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
09/11/2022

According to ProfesionalReview, the Intel Core i9-13900K leads in performance with 24 cores, excelling in multi-threaded tasks, but suffers from extreme power consumption and high heat generation requiring top-tier cooling. The i7-13700K (16 cores) serves as the "sweet spot," matching high-end gaming performance at a lower cost, though it still demands robust cooling. The i5-13600K...Read more

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geeknetic.es
20/10/2022

The Geeknetic review describes the Intel Core i9-13900K as a "beast" that reclaims the performance crown by doubling efficiency cores and boosting clock speeds to 5.8 GHz. It functions as a gaming and workstation powerhouse, benefiting from a massive L3 cache and compatibility with existing LGA1700 600-series motherboards. GeekneticPerformance-wise, the i9-13900K dominates in both...Read more

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elchapuzasinformatico.com
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K "Raptor Lake" processor, featuring 24 cores and 32 threads, delivers superior performance with 5.8 GHz boost clocks, representing a major advancement in both single and multi-threaded tasks. Key advantages include its raw processing power, compatibility with LGA 1700 sockets for DDR4/DDR5, and competitive pricing. However, the processor suffers from extreme...Read more

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profesionalreview.com
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, a 24-core (8 E) Raptor Lake flagship, delivers substantial performance gains with a 5.8 GHz turbo frequency and supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. It dominates in productivity tasks and 4K video editing, often exceeding the Ryzen 9 7950X, though gaming gains are minimal over cheaper alternatives. Key cons include extreme power consumption, exceeding 350W...Read more

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gameit.es
30 de noviembre de 2022

According to the Game IT review, the Intel Core i9-13900K is a high-performance, 24-core "beast" designed for enthusiasts, reaching speeds up to 5.8 GHz. It supports both DDR4 and DDR5, though the review strongly recommends DDR5 for maximum potential, and features 20 lanes of PCIe 5.0 for next-gen storage and graphics. While providing exceptional performance for gaming and content...Read more

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pisapapeles.net
06/02/2023

The Intel Core i9-13900K, analyzed by Pisapapeles, is a 24-core Raptor Lake processor (8 E) delivering elite performance, reaching up to 5.8 GHz, and offering nearly 50% better multi-core performance than its predecessor. Pros include high versatility with DDR4/DDR5 compatibility, robust integrated graphics, and superior price-to-performance value, though it demands intense...Read more

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madboxpc.com
05 de noviembre de 2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, as reviewed by MadboxPC, advances the hybrid architecture with 24 cores (8 P-cores, 16 E-cores) and 32 threads, boosting up to 5.8 GHz. It delivers exceptional performance, boasting up to 40% higher multi-threaded gains over the 12900K and improved single-core speeds, making it a top choice for gaming and production. Key advantages include increased L2/L3...Read more

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tech.everyeye.it
20/10/2022

The Everyeye.it review highlights the Intel Core i9-13900K and i5-13600K as high-performance processors that effectively reclaim Intel's lead in the CPU market through a refined Raptor Lake hybrid architecture. The i9-13900K delivers extreme enthusiast performance, while the i5-13600K stands out as a high-value option, often exceeding the previous generation's flagship in...Read more

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smartworld.it
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, part of the 13th Gen Raptor Lake family, is a 24-core, 32-thread processor that reaches 5.8 GHz, offering substantial performance leaps of up to 40% in multi-threaded tasks over its predecessor. Pros include exceptional, industry-leading performance for high-end gaming and professional 3D/video work, supported by compatibility with both DDR4 and DDR5...Read more

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tomshw.it
20/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K and Core i5-13600K deliver top-tier gaming and productivity performance, reclaiming market leadership through significant multi-threaded improvements. The 24-core i9-13900K offers a 40% jump over the previous generation in productivity, while the i5-13600K is identified as a premier choice for gamers, providing high-end performance at a competitive price...Read more

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multiplayer.it
31/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, featured in the review by Multiplayer.it, is a 24-core (8 E) hybrid processor designed to be a top-tier flagship, achieving significant performance gains of up to 40% in multi-threaded tasks compared to the previous generation. It excels in raw, "brute force" productivity and offers high-end gaming performance, particularly at 1080p, with the added benefit...Read more

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hwcooling.net
24/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, a 24-core/32-thread "Raptor Lake" processor, delivers a massive performance leap with 5.8 GHz boost clocks, dominating both gaming and multi-threaded tasks. It features improved architecture, including doubled L2 cache for efficiency cores, and offers versatility with support for both DDR5-5600 and DDR4 memory. Key advantages include its competitive pricing...Read more

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techfi.nl
03/07/2026

The Intel Core i9-13900K is a high-performance, 24-core processor that excels in both gaming and productivity, offering 40-50% better multi-threaded performance than its predecessor. It features exceptional single-core speeds up to 5.8 GHz and supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, making it a versatile option. However, a significant drawback is its extreme power consumption and...Read more

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notebookcheck.nl
23/10/2022

The Intel Core i9-13900K, featured in the Notebookcheck review, is a high-end, 16-core processor offering significant multi-threaded gains over its predecessor, utilizing up to 5.8 GHz boost clocks to challenge the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X in both gaming and synthetic benchmarks. However, this performance comes with high power consumption (253W PL2) and intense thermals, often requiring...Read more

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techgaming.nl
08/11/2022

The TechGaming.nl review highlights the Intel Core i9-13900K as a performance leader, featuring 24 cores and 32 threads that deliver exceptional multi-threaded results and gaming capability, often outperforming the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X. Key advantages include improved DDR5 support and compatibility with Z690 motherboards, providing a strong option for high-end productivity. However,...Read more

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tweakers.net
20/10/2022

The Intel 13th Gen "Raptor Lake" review highlights a massive performance leap over the 12th Gen, with the i9-13900K, i7-13700K, and i5-13600K showing up to 41% higher multi-threaded performance due to doubled efficiency cores (E-cores). A key pro is the continued support for DDR4 and Z690 motherboards, offering a cost-effective upgrade path compared to AMD's AM5 platform, alongside...Read more

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ct.nl
23/05/2023

The c't Magazin review compares the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D and Intel Core i9-13900KS, identifying distinct strengths for gaming versus productivity. The Intel Core i9-13900KS excels in raw performance with 6 GHz clock speeds, making it ideal for productivity, yet it suffers from high power consumption and difficult cooling requirements. Conversely, the Ryzen 9 7950X3D stands out for...Read more

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tweakers.net
05/08/2024

Tweakers.net reviews the impact of Intel’s new BIOS "Default Settings," designed to stabilize 13th and 14th Gen CPUs by enforcing strict power limits. While these settings effectively prevent hardware degradation (pro), they cause measurable multi-threaded performance losses on high-end models (con). The Core i9-14900K, i9-13900K, and i7-14700K face the steepest declines, with up to...Read more

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