CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-14600 vs Intel Core i7-13790F
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-14600 is a 14-core, 20-thread desktop processor that sits in the upper mid-range of the Raptor Lake Refresh lineup. Launched in January 2024, it bridges the gap between the entry-level 14500 and the unlocked 14600K. Featuring 6 P-Cores and 8 E-Cores, it operates at a base frequency of 2.7 GHz and boosts up to 5.2 GHz. Unlike the 14500, it features the full 2MB of L2 cache per P-core and 4MB per E-core cluster, significantly improving multi-threaded and gaming throughput. It supports DDR5-5600 natively, offering a memory speed advantage out of the box. However, Intel opted not to include a stock cooler, and the multiplier remains locked. With a 65W base power and a 154W turbo power, the i5-14600 offers near-K-series performance in a constrained power envelope, making it an intriguing option for users who want high baseline performance without paying the premium for Z-series motherboards and aftermarket cooling, provided they already have a compatible cooler on hand.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
The increased L2 cache heavily benefits rendering and compilation tasks, putting it above the 14500.
Strong multi-core performance for rendering and compiling.
Gaming
Delivers gaming performance nearly identical to the 14600K when power limits are removed, making it a gamer's value pick.
Performs nearly identically to the i7-13700K when paired with a high-end GPU.
Virtualization
Strong multi-threaded capability with enough cache to handle multiple VMs smoothly.
24 threads handle multiple VMs easily.
Efficiency
Decent efficiency at 65W, but can draw significant power when fully unleashed.
65W base is efficient, but turbo loads push power high.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Sufficient for basic machine learning inference using CPU
- CPU-based AI inference is fast due to AVX2 support.
- No dedicated NPU or integrated AI accelerators.
Content Creation
Gaming
- Full L2 cache eliminates stutters present in cut-down die variants
- 5.2 GHz boost is highly competitive
- DDR5-5600 support improves frame rates in CPU-bound scenarios
- High boost clocks ensure strong FPS in CPU-bound titles.
- Lack of QuickSync means no hardware video encoding without a GPU.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Full 20MB L2 cache identical to the 14600K
- Native DDR5-5600 support
- High 5.2 GHz boost clock
- 65W base power for easy cooling at idle
- Strong gaming performance for the price
Cons
- No included stock cooler
- Locked multiplier
- High PL2 draw (154W) requires good motherboard VRM
- Only 4 PCIe Gen 4 lanes for secondary storage
Pros
- Excellent multi-threaded performance
- Unique 33MB L3 cache
- Supports both DDR4 and DDR5
- PCIe 5.0 support
- Cost-effective compared to K-series
Cons
- Locked multiplier limits overclocking
- No integrated graphics
- High power draw under heavy load
- Region-locked to China
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-14600
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600XRival
Mid-Range Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 7700Rival
Mid-Range Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-14600KRival
Mid-Range Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13500Rival
Mid-Range Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 8600GRival
Mid-Range Desktop
Includes a cooler and is cheaper if full L2 cache isn't needed.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 7600Alt
Lower power consumption and strong single-core speeds.
More P-cores and threads for heavily threaded workloads.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-13790F
- AMD Ryzen 7 7700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 9 7900Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13600KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-13700KFRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600XRival
Desktop
Global equivalent with slightly less L3 cache.
Compare head-to-headBetter value for purely gaming workloads.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 7700Alt
More power-efficient alternative with integrated graphics.
Older flagship available globally at similar prices.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 9 5900XAlt
Excellent multi-core value on the AM4 platform.
Our Verdict on Each
A cleverly binned 14-core CPU that delivers 14600K-level cache and memory speeds without the high base power, though the lack of a stock cooler is a downside.
Best for: The Core i5-14600 is the smart choice for discerning builders who want 14600K-level gaming and productivity performance without paying the overclocking tax. By retaining the full L2 cache and DDR5-5600 support, it avoids the compromises of the 14500. At $255, it sits in a sweet spot, though you must factor in the cost of an aftermarket cooler since Intel omits the stock option. Pair it with a B760 motherboard and DDR5 memory, disable the power limits, and you effectively have an i5-14600K for less money. It is perfect for 1440p gamers and content creators who build balanced systems where every dollar of performance counts.
Read the full reviewA highly capable i7 variant that trades integrated graphics for a slightly larger cache, delivering excellent value for Chinese gamers and creators using dedicated GPUs.
Best for: Building a dedicated gaming or creator PC in the Chinese market.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-14600 or Intel Core i7-13790F?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-13790F 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 i5-14600 or Intel Core i7-13790F?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-13790F leads with a gaming performance score of 90/100 among Intel Core i5-14600 and Intel Core i7-13790F.
Do Intel Core i5-14600 and Intel Core i7-13790F 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 i7-13790F has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i5-14600 (14 cores), Intel Core i7-13790F (16 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-13790F posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-14600 (23,000), Intel Core i7-13790F (42,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.