The i7-8700K is Intel’s latest, top of the range, 8th generation Coffee Lake processor. Like Kaby Lake and Sky Lake before that, Coffee Lake is based on Intel’s 14nm architecture which has been slightly optimized on each iteration. Following AMD’s modus operandi, Intel has upped the cores and threads across the range of their CPUs. In previous generations, a 6-core processor would have been a high-end desk-top (HEDT) processor, however the i7-8700K is the first Intel CPU with 6 cores and 12 threads to be classified (and priced) as a mainstream consumer processor. Specifically, the i7-8700K features a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz which boosts to 4.7 GHz (4.5 GHz for the previous generation i7-7700k), 12MB of smart (L3) cache and 2 channels of DDR4 RAM. The majority of the performance improvements over the 7th generation stem from the higher core count which results in a 50% increase in multi-core speed between the i7-7700k and i7-8700k. A new motherboard will need to be factored into the budget when upgrading to the 8700K as it requires a new Intel Z370 chipset which has supposedly been designed to better deliver power to CPUs with a greater number of cores. Also available in this latest release of CPUs is the 6 core 6 thread i5-8600k which is a more rational option (around $100 cheaper) for the vast majority of users that don’t require hyper-threading. Sandy bridge owners can finally justify an upgrade but with the next iteration of AMD's Zen architecture just around the corner the CPU market will be a lot faster moving now that Intel, once again, has to compete. [Sep '17CPUPro]
The Intel Core i5-13500 offers an interesting mix of performance and value that will likely capture the attention of savvy PC builders providing its MSRP of $235 USD holds true. The 13500 features the same 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores as the i5-13600K, which currently retails for $320 USD. However, it has a lower boost clock frequency (4.8 GHz versus 5.1 GHz) and less cache (35.5 MB versus 44 MB) which translates to a 10% performance disadvantage against the 13600K. Nevertheless, paired with a B660 motherboard and inexpensive DDR4, the 20 thread i5-13500, is a very capable mid-range processor for both gaming and multi-threaded tasks. Compared to AMD’s similarly priced, hex-core Ryzen 5 7600 and 7600X, the 13500 offers better gaming and 50% faster multi-core performance which is particularly beneficial to workstation and professional users. Intel has completely priced AMD's 7000 series CPUs out of the rational market. Despite this, as long as Intel continues to sample and sponsor marketers that are mostly funded by AMD, they will struggle to win market share. [Jan '23CPUPro]
We calculate effective speed which measures real world performance for typical users. Effective speed is adjusted by current prices to yield a value for money rating. Our calculated values are checked against thousands of individual user ratings. The customizable table below combines these factors to bring you the definitive list of top CPUs. [CPUPro]
Welcome to our PC speed test tool. UserBenchmark will test your PC and compare the results to other users with the same components. You can quickly size up your PC, identify hardware problems and explore the best value for money upgrades.