Intel Core i7-8700 vs Intel Core i5-13600

The Intel Core i7-8700, based on the Coffee Lake S architecture, was introduced to serve mainstream users and gamers of its time.

Manufactured using a 14 nm process, this processor offers 6 cores and 12 threads, which provided a solid foundation for multitasking and gaming in its generation. It features 0 MB of Level 2 Cache and 12 MB of Level 3 Cache and supports PCIe 3.0. The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 enables basic graphics output.

With a maximum memory bandwidth of 43 GB/s, it was well-equipped for typical desktop applications and represented a cost-effective option for systems of that era. The Intel Core i5-13600, based on the newer Alder Lake S Refresh architecture, targets a broader audience, from mainstream users to demanding gamers and content creators.

This processor is manufactured using the more advanced 10 nm (Intel 7) process and utilizes a hybrid core design with 6 Performance-cores and 8 Efficiency-cores, resulting in a total of 14 cores and 20 threads. It has 12 MB of Level 2 Cache and 24 MB of Level 3 Cache and supports the more modern PCIe 5.0 standard.

The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 offers improved graphics performance. Its maximum memory bandwidth is 77 GB/s, which supports fast data processing. Regarding single-core performance, the Intel Core i5-13600 shows significantly higher performance, which is attributable to significant architectural improvements and higher clock frequencies.

In multi-core applications, the Intel Core i5-13600 considerably surpasses the Intel Core i7-8700. This is due to the hybrid core design of the Intel Core i5-13600 with a larger total number of cores and threads, as well as more efficient resource utilization. For gaming scenarios, the Intel Core i5-13600 offers superior performance.

Its higher single-core performance, combined with more advanced core architectures and higher clock frequencies, enables a smoother and more responsive gaming experience, especially with modern titles. Furthermore, it benefits from PCIe 5.0 support, which provides higher bandwidth for current graphics cards.

The Intel Core i7-8700, with its older architecture and PCIe 3.0, is noticeably limited in this area. Its integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 is also less powerful than the Intel UHD Graphics 770 of the newer model. The Intel Core i7-8700 exhibits typical power consumption for its generation.

The Intel Core i5-13600 can reach higher power consumption under heavy load to achieve its significantly greater performance. Nevertheless, the Intel Core i5-13600 offers significantly improved performance per watt compared to the older architecture of the Intel Core i7-8700, making it more efficient when maximum performance is required.

As an older model, the Intel Core i7-8700 is primarily found on the used market and is consequently more cost-effective. It offers good value for money for budget builds or as an upgrade for existing older platforms. The Intel Core i5-13600, on the other hand, has a higher purchase price but delivers significantly increased performance and modernity, making it a high-value investment for new systems and demanding applications.

The Intel Core i7-8700 is a good choice for users with a limited budget, who perform basic tasks, or wish to play older games, and for those aiming for an upgrade within an older platform. It offers proven performance for general desktop applications. The Intel Core i5-13600 is the clear recommendation for users who need maximum performance for gaming, content creation, multi-tasking, and other demanding workloads.

Its modern architecture and high core count make it future-proof and superior in almost all performance areas.