CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-13500T vs Intel Core i7-13700T
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-13500T is a 14-core, 20-thread low-power desktop processor tailored for small-form-factor (SFF) and thermally constrained builds. Released in January 2023, it features 6 P-Cores and 8 E-Cores, offering formidable multi-threaded capability within a strict 35W base TDP. Operating at a 1.6 GHz base frequency and boosting up to 4.6 GHz, it provides exceptional burst performance for an SFF chip. The 24MB L3 cache and native DDR5-4800 support ensure smooth multitasking and memory throughput. The integrated UHD 770 graphics deliver competent display output and media playback without a discrete GPU. The 'T' suffix denotes its power-optimized nature, making it a favorite for home servers, HTPCs, and compact office PCs where users demand 14-core productivity without the thermal overhead of a 65W or 125W processor. Its locked multiplier ensures predictable, efficient operation in tight chassis.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Outstanding multi-threaded performance for SFF; handles VMs and Docker effortlessly.
Excellent multi-threaded performance for its power class.
Gaming
Not designed for gaming, but UHD 770 handles older titles and emulator duties fine.
Capable of 60fps gaming, but lower clocks limit high-refresh-rate performance.
Virtualization
14 cores at 35W is a dream for homelab servers running Proxmox or ESXi.
Efficiency
World-class efficiency; delivers massive compute per watt.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- CPU-only AI inference is possible
- No dedicated NPU
- Capable of CPU inference but constrained by power limits.
Content Creation
Gaming
- UHD 770 is decent for retro and indie gaming
- 35W power limit caps sustained boost clocks
- Pair with a low-profile GPU for SFF gaming
- Suitable for 1440p gaming with a mid-range GPU.
- Thermal throttling can occur in tiny cases.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 14 cores and 20 threads at 35W
- UHD 770 graphics with QuickSync
- Massive 24MB L3 cache
- Runs extremely cool and quiet
- DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support
Cons
- Low base clock (1.6 GHz)
- Locked multiplier
- Can be hard to find in stock
- PL2 (92W) requires decent motherboard VRM to sustain
Pros
- Extremely low 35W base power
- 16 cores and 24 threads
- Excellent for SFF builds
- Unlocked multiplier
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0
Cons
- Lower base and boost clocks
- Price premium for low-power binning
- PL2 of 106W still requires decent cooling
- Harder to find in retail
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-13500T
- AMD Ryzen 7 7700Rival
Low-Power Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600GERival
Low-Power Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13400TRival
Low-Power Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 8600GRival
Low-Power Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-13700TRival
Low-Power Desktop
Standard 65W version if you have the cooling and want higher base clocks.
Compare head-to-headBudget 4-core option for basic NAS or HTPC duties.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-13700T
- AMD Ryzen 7 7700Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13500TRival
Low-Power Desktop
- Intel Core i7-12700TRival
Low-Power Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700GRival
Desktop APU
Better value and higher performance if power limits are not strict.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 7900Alt
Higher multi-core performance with good efficiency.
Slightly higher base clocks for embedded applications.
Compare head-to-head- Intel NUC 13 ExtremeAlt
Pre-built compact system using similar architecture.
Our Verdict on Each
A phenomenal low-power CPU that brings 14 cores to the SFF market, offering unmatched multi-threading for home servers and compact builds.
Best for: The Core i5-13500T is the ultimate processor for homelab enthusiasts and SFF builders who need maximum multi-threading in a tiny footprint. If you are building a Proxmox server, a Plex media server, or a compact workstation that must run silently, the 13500T is unmatched. Its 14 cores handle parallel workloads effortlessly at 35W, and the UHD 770 provides excellent QuickSync transcoding. It is the smartest choice for users who value efficiency and core count over peak single-thread speed.
Read the full reviewAn impressively efficient 16-core processor that brings desktop-class multitasking to thermally constrained environments, though its premium price limits mainstream appeal.
Best for: Building a Small Form Factor PC or home server
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-13500T or Intel Core i7-13700T?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-13500T comes out ahead with a score of 8.8/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i5-13500T or Intel Core i7-13700T?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-13700T leads with a gaming performance score of 70/100 among Intel Core i5-13500T and Intel Core i7-13700T.
Do Intel Core i5-13500T and Intel Core i7-13700T use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the LGA 1700 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-13700T has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i5-13500T (14 cores), Intel Core i7-13700T (16 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-13700T posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-13500T (20,500), Intel Core i7-13700T (22,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.