CPU Comparison
Core i5-13450HX vs Intel Core i7-13700HX
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-13450HX is a desktop-class mobile processor designed for budget gaming laptops. Part of the Raptor Lake-HX family, it brings an unlocked multiplier and higher power limits to the mobile space. It features 10 cores (6 Performance + 4 Efficient) and 16 threads, utilizing a 55W base TDP. With a max turbo of 4.6 GHz and 20MB of L3 cache, it delivers strong gaming performance. Unlike standard H-series chips, it uses a larger 257mm² die borrowed from desktop silicon, offering 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes for extensive expansion. The integrated UHD Graphics 710 is minimal, intended purely for display output. Released in early 2023, the 13450HX targets users who want desktop replacement performance and overclocking capabilities in a laptop without breaking the bank.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
10 cores and 20MB cache make it great for heavy productivity.
Desktop-class rendering and compilation times.
Gaming
Handles high-refresh-rate gaming; not a bottleneck for RTX 4060/4070.
Will not bottleneck any mobile GPU, including the RTX 4090.
Virtualization
16 threads and 20 PCIe lanes allow for complex local setups.
16 cores and 24 threads easily handle complex VM environments.
Efficiency
55W base and 157W boost consume significant power and generate heat.
Highly power-hungry; terrible battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No NPU; relies on discrete GPU for AI acceleration.
- Excellent CPU inference capabilities.
- Large cache helps with complex model loading.
Content Creation
Gaming
- Unlocked for tuning.
- 20 PCIe lanes prevent bottlenecks with discrete GPUs.
- Ideal for RTX 4080 and 4090 mobile configurations.
- Unlocked nature allows for manual tuning to extract more FPS.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Unlocked multiplier for overclocking
- 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes for full-bandwidth GPU/NVMe
- 6 P-cores offer strong gaming performance
- Large desktop die dissipates heat well
Cons
- High power consumption (55W base, 157W boost)
- UHD 710 integrated graphics are very weak
- Requires robust cooling solution
- Lower DDR5 speed support (4800 MT/s)
Pros
- True desktop-class 16-core performance
- Unlocked multiplier for tuning
- 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes
- Excellent for heavy 3D workloads
Cons
- Very high power consumption
- Requires bulky cooling systems
- Poor battery life
- Does not support LPDDR5
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i5-13450HX
- AMD Ryzen 5 7640HXRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 7735HSRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-13700HXRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-13600HXRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 9 7940HSRival
Mobile
Lower TDP and better iGPU if overclocking isn't needed.
Compare head-to-head- Ryzen 7 7735HSAlt
Better power efficiency and integrated graphics.
More E-cores and larger cache for slightly better multi-threading.
Compare head-to-headOlder gen but similar core layout, often cheaper.
Compare head-to-head- Core i5-13420HAlt
Standard H-series if 55W is too hot for your chassis.
Intel Core i7-13700HX
- AMD Ryzen 9 7945HXRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 9 7845HXRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-13900HXRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-13980HXRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 9 7900HXRival
Mobile
If you prefer a desktop PC with the same core performance.
Compare head-to-headIf you want a thinner, lighter laptop with decent power.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
A unique unlocked 10-core mobile CPU offering incredible value and overclocking potential for budget gaming laptops.
Best for: Budget gaming laptops with RTX 4060 or 4070.
Read the full reviewThe HX series brings true desktop silicon to laptops. The i7-13700HX is an absolute beast, offering i9-level performance for users who don't compromise on portability.
Best for: Buying a desktop-replacement gaming laptop.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i5-13450HX or Intel Core i7-13700HX?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-13700HX comes out ahead with a score of 9.1/10. 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, Core i5-13450HX or Intel Core i7-13700HX?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-13700HX leads with a gaming performance score of 95/100 among Core i5-13450HX and Intel Core i7-13700HX.
Do Core i5-13450HX and Intel Core i7-13700HX use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel BGA 1964 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-13700HX has the most cores. Core counts: Core i5-13450HX (10 cores), Intel Core i7-13700HX (16 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-13700HX posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i5-13450HX (17,500), Intel Core i7-13700HX (40,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.