Intel
CPU
Intel Core i7-13700K
MSRP:
$389
Technical Specifications
Performance Core Clock
3.4 GHz
Performance Core Boost Clock
5.4 GHz
Base Clock
3.4 GHz
Boost Clock
5.4 GHz
L2 Cache
24
L3 Cache
30
TDP
125W
Includes Cooler
No
Socket
LGA1700
Cores
16
Threads
24
Integrated Graphics
Intel UHD Graphics 770
Maximum Supported Memory
128GB DDR5-5600
ECC Support
No
SMT Support
Yes
Release Year
2022
MSRP
$389
Manufacturer
Intel
Pros & Cons
Pros
- High core count handles demanding multitasking and content creation
- Excellent for streaming while gaming or video editing
- Strong performance for 4K gaming with multitasking
- High boost clocks provide excellent gaming performance
- Reasonable power consumption for the performance level
- Intel's premium tier with advanced features and performance
- Unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking headroom
- LGA1700 socket supports multiple Intel generations
- Wide motherboard selection with various feature levels
- DDR5 memory support provides future-proofing and bandwidth
- Integrated graphics enable system boot without dedicated GPU
- High-performance processor excellent for gaming and productivity
- Sweet spot for enthusiast builds balancing price and performance
Cons
- More cores than most games can effectively utilize
- Higher cost may not benefit gaming-focused users
- Higher power consumption and heat generation
- Higher price point may limit mainstream appeal
- Pricing may not reflect age compared to newer alternatives
Community Insights
- The most common community topic is thermals. Many users say the i7-13700K delivers incredible performance, often matching or beating Ryzen 7000 and even i9 CPUs in games. However, it's frequently mentioned that it runs hot, especially under full load or when overclocked—proper cooling (240mm+ AIO or high-end air cooler) is considered essential. Some undervolt it for better temps without major performance loss.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Intel Core i7-13700K good for gaming and streaming at the same time?
Yes, the i7-13700K is one of the best CPUs for gaming and streaming simultaneously. With 16 cores (8 Performance + 8 Efficient) and 24 threads, it delivers top-tier multitasking performance. Its high single-core speed benefits gaming, while the additional cores handle streaming tasks with minimal impact on FPS.
Performance Guide & Use Cases
Best For
Streaming high-quality gameplay to audiences
Software development with multiple VMs and compilation tasks
Mainstream builds with excellent component availability
High-bandwidth applications like video editing and simulation
Performance builds with robust cooling solutions (125W TDP)
Mid-range enthusiast builds balancing cost and performance
Advanced users wanting maximum performance customization
HTPC builds and compact form factor systems
Mature Intel platform with established compatibility
Potential Bottlenecks
Requires adequate cooling solution to prevent thermal throttling (125W TDP)
Overkill Scenarios
1080p gaming at 60Hz without multitasking
Basic photo editing and occasional video trimming
Basic productivity applications and office work
Basic workstations for small business applications
Simple media consumption and entertainment
Always-on systems prioritizing low power consumption
Small form factor office computers
Pairing with budget GPUs under $150
Users wanting plug-and-play systems without tweaking
Backup computers and secondary systems
Online shopping and banking applications
Avoid For
Secondary systems and backup computers
Office applications and business software
Student workstations and educational use
Energy-efficient workstations and eco-friendly builds
Budget builds avoiding additional cooler costs
High-end gaming builds prioritizing latest features
Always-on systems prioritizing low power consumption
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