CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-13700 vs Intel Core i7-13700KF
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-13700 is a mainstream desktop processor that offers an excellent balance of price and performance for power users and content creators. Released on January 4th, 2023, as part of the 13th Gen Raptor Lake family, it features 16 cores and 24 threads, utilizing 8 Performance-cores and 8 Efficient-cores. Operating at a base frequency of 2.1 GHz and boosting up to 5.2 GHz, it delivers robust single-threaded speed for gaming and high multi-threaded capability for rendering tasks. With a standard 65W base power, it fits into most standard cooling solutions, though its PL2 of 219W requires adequate thermal headroom under load. It includes Intel UHD Graphics 770, allowing for system operation without a discrete GPU. Supporting both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, along with 16 PCIe Gen 5 lanes, the i7-13700 provides a highly adaptable platform for builders seeking top-tier performance without paying the premium for unlocked K-series variants.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles heavy multi-threaded workloads with ease.
Exceptional multi-threaded performance for heavy workloads.
Gaming
Excellent gaming performance, virtually indistinguishable from the 13700K in GPU-bound scenarios.
Top-tier gaming performance, identical to the 13700K.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Capable of local LLM inference and image generation.
- Excellent for local AI workloads, though no iGPU Quick Sync support.
Content Creation
Gaming
- High boost clocks ensure top-tier gaming.
- Performs identically to K-series when GPU bound.
- Requires a dedicated graphics card.
- Maximizes high-refresh-rate monitor capabilities.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent price-to-performance ratio
- 16 cores and 24 threads
- High 5.2 GHz boost clock
- Includes bundled cooler
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- PL2 of 219W requires robust cooling
- Bundled cooler is insufficient for sustained loads
- Only 16 PCIe 5.0 lanes
Pros
- Cheaper than the 13700K
- Fully unlocked for overclocking
- 5.4 GHz max turbo
- 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes
- Elite gaming performance
Cons
- No integrated graphics (requires discrete GPU)
- High power consumption (up to 253W)
- Requires expensive cooling
- Runs very hot under load
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-13700
- AMD Ryzen 7 7700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 9 7900Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13600KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-12700KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-12900KRival
Desktop
Better if you want to overclock or need higher base clocks.
Compare head-to-headCheaper previous gen, though significantly fewer E-cores.
Compare head-to-headSlightly cheaper if you don't need integrated graphics.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-13700KF
- Compare head-to-headAMD Ryzen 9 7900XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3DRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-12900KFRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13600KFRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-13900KFRival
Desktop
Better if you want integrated graphics as a backup.
Compare head-to-headCheaper previous generation option.
Compare head-to-headCheaper, locked alternative if you don't overclock.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
One of the best value-to-performance processors on the market, offering near-flagship performance at a significantly lower price point than the 13700K.
Best for: High-end gaming and content creation without overclocking
Read the full reviewAn elite unlocked processor that saves money by dropping the iGPU, delivering maximum overclocking and gaming potential for dedicated GPU builds.
Best for: Enthusiast gaming and overclocking with a dedicated GPU
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-13700 or Intel Core i7-13700KF?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-13700KF comes out ahead with a score of 9.4/10. 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 i7-13700 or Intel Core i7-13700KF?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-13700KF leads with a gaming performance score of 98/100 among Intel Core i7-13700 and Intel Core i7-13700KF.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-13700 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-13700 (65 W), Intel Core i7-13700KF (125 W).
Do Intel Core i7-13700 and Intel Core i7-13700KF use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the LGA 1700 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-13700KF posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-13700 (35,000), Intel Core i7-13700KF (45,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.