CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-13700HX vs Intel Core i7-13700K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-13700HX is a desktop-class mobile processor designed for bulky gaming laptops, offering 16 cores and unlocked overclocking for maximum portable performance.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Desktop-class rendering and compilation times.
Exceptional multi-threaded performance for heavy workloads.
Gaming
Will not bottleneck any mobile GPU, including the RTX 4090.
Top-tier gaming performance, frequently matching or beating the i9-13900K.
Virtualization
16 cores and 24 threads easily handle complex VM environments.
Efficiency
Highly power-hungry; terrible battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- Excellent CPU inference capabilities.
- Large cache helps with complex model loading.
- Excellent for local AI development and CPU inference.
Content Creation
Gaming
- Ideal for RTX 4080 and 4090 mobile configurations.
- Unlocked nature allows for manual tuning to extract more FPS.
- Capable of maximizing high-refresh-rate monitors.
- Extremely high single-core speeds.
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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
Pros
- Exceptional single and multi-threaded performance
- Unlocked for overclocking
- 5.4 GHz max turbo
- 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes
- Excellent for gaming and productivity
Cons
- High power consumption (up to 253W)
- Requires expensive cooling
- Runs very hot under load
- Does not include a stock cooler
Competitors & Alternatives
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
Intel Core i7-13700K
- Compare head-to-headAMD Ryzen 9 7900XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3DRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-12900KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-13600KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i9-13900KRival
Desktop
Better value if you don't plan to overclock.
Compare head-to-headNewer generation with more E-cores.
Compare head-to-head
Our Verdict on Each
The 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 reviewThe definitive enthusiast processor of its generation, offering an unbeatable blend of gaming and productivity performance, though it runs hot and power-hungry.
Best for: High-end gaming and content creation with overclocking
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-13700HX or Intel Core i7-13700K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-13700K comes out ahead with a score of 9.5/10. 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 i7-13700HX or Intel Core i7-13700K?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-13700K leads with a gaming performance score of 98/100 among Intel Core i7-13700HX and Intel Core i7-13700K.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-13700HX has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-13700HX (55 W), Intel Core i7-13700K (125 W).
Do Intel Core i7-13700HX and Intel Core i7-13700K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-13700HX: Intel BGA 1964, Intel Core i7-13700K: LGA 1700), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-13700K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-13700HX (40,000), Intel Core i7-13700K (45,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.