£371.99
(updated at 2025-01-18 04:28:00)
Score: 126 point per £


Product features

  • Unlocked features for overclocking are present when paired with the eligible Intel 600/700 Series chipset SKU.
  • 13th Gen Intel Core i9 desktop processors, 13th Gen Intel Core i7 desktop processors, and the 13th Gen Intel Core i5K desktop processors are capable of up to DDR5-5600 MT/s support. DDR5 - 5600 MT/s supported on 1DPC UDIMM 1Rx8 and 1Rx16. Maximum memory capacity of 128GB is achievable with 2DPC configurations.
  • Eligible for Intel Stable IT Platform Program (Intel SIPP) starting with Raptor Lake-S Commercial platform availability.

Intel Core i7-13700K Desktop Processor Review

The Intel Core i7-13700K is a high-performance desktop processor designed for demanding applications such as gaming, content creation, and multitasking. It features 16 cores, divided into 8 performance cores (P-cores) and 8 efficiency cores (E-cores), with a total of 24 threads. This hybrid architecture, combined with the Intel Thread Director, ensures efficient task allocation and enhanced performance.

Performance

The processor's base clock speed is 3.4 GHz, but it can boost up to 5.4 GHz under optimal conditions. The P-cores are capable of reaching high frequencies, making it ideal for demanding tasks like gaming and video editing. The E-cores handle background tasks, improving overall system responsiveness and multitasking capabilities.

Graphics

The Intel Core i7-13700K comes with integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770, which provides sufficient display output for troubleshooting systems without a dedicated graphics card. However, for serious gaming, a dedicated GPU is still recommended.

Power Consumption

The processor has a TDP of 125 watts, which corresponds to the PL1 value. In Boost mode, it can consume up to 253 watts (PL2), requiring a robust cooling solution to maintain optimal performance.

Pros

  • High Performance: Features 16 cores and a clock speed of up to 5.4 GHz, enabling smooth gaming at 1440p and beyond.
  • Overclocking Potential: Offers substantial headroom for overclocking with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars, ideal for enthusiasts.
  • Future-Proof: Compatible with both DDR5 and DDR4 memory, supporting the latest technology standards.
  • Efficient Task Allocation: The Intel Thread Director dynamically assigns workloads to the right core at the right time, enhancing overall performance.

Cons

  • Cooling Requirements: Requires a robust cooling solution for optimal performance, as no thermal solution is included with the processor.
  • Motherboard Compatibility: Only compatible with Intel 600 and 700 series chipset motherboards, potentially limiting options for some users.
  • Potential RAM Issues: Users may encounter defective RAM, emphasizing the need for thorough testing before finalizing builds.

Verdict

The Intel Core i7-13700K is an excellent choice for gamers and content creators seeking high-performance processing power. Its hybrid architecture and high clock speeds make it well-suited for demanding applications. However, users must invest in a robust cooling solution and ensure motherboard compatibility. Despite these considerations, the processor's performance and future-proofing capabilities make it a premier option in the domain of 8-core processors for 2024.

Features Table

Feature Description
Cores 16 (8 P-cores + 8 E-cores)
Threads 24
Cache 30M
Clock Speed Up to 5.4 GHz
Integrated Graphics Intel UHD Graphics 770
Memory Support DDR5 5600 MT/s, DDR4 3200 MT/s
TDP 125 watts (PL1)
Boost TDP Up to 253 watts (PL2)
Socket LGA 1700
Architecture Raptor Lake
Manufacturing Technology 10 nm
Max. Temperature 100 °C
Overclocking Potential 4.5 out of 5 stars
Motherboard Compatibility Intel 600 and 700 series chipset motherboards
Power Consumption Up to 253 watts in Boost mode