Intel Core i7-9700 vs Intel Core i7-13700K

Intel Core i7-9700

The Intel Core i7-9700 is a high end desktop processor based on the Coffee Lake architecture. It integrates 8 cores (no Hyperthreading therefore also 8 threads) clocked at 3 - 4.7 GHz. Compared to the similar named Core i7-9700K, the 9700 has no open multiplicator for easy overclocking, offers lower clock speeds and offers a reduced TDP.

Compared to the old Core i7-8700, the 9700 offers two more real cores but no Hyperthreading. Therefore, the performance gain is not that big - depending on the app. The single core performance was slightly improved thanks to the higher Turbo clocks. As a high end desktop CPU, the i7-9700 is well suited for demanding tasks and gaming.

The integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 graphics card is clocked at up to 1.2 GHz and offers no advantage compared to previous generations. As it is a very low end GPU, only some low demanding games like Hearthstone can be played with it (see GPU page for benchmarks).

Intel specifies the TDP at 65 Watt (instead of the 95W of the faster models) and therefore the CPU wont need a high end desktop cooling system.

Intel Core i7-13700K

The Intel Core i7-13700K is a high-end CPU based on the current Raptor Lake architecture, which was introduced in September 2022. The base clock is 3.4 GHz and can reach up to 5.4 GHz under optimal conditions. The total of 16 cores are divided into 8 P-cores and 8 E-cores, which we already know from the Alder Lake architecture. Compared to the Intel Core i7-12700K, however, the number of E-cores has been doubled, meaning that the Intel Core i7-13700K now offers 24 threads. As usual, the K models continue to offer a freely selectable multiplier, which simplifies overclocking. In addition, all new Raptor Lake processors can be operated on the existing Socket 1700 motherboards.

Performance

Compared to the Intel Core i7-12700K, the Core i7-13700K still offers 8 P-cores, but these are to be relieved by 8 additional E-cores for demanding applications. The E-cores primarily take care of background applications. The hybrid architecture relies on the Intel Thread Director, which is responsible for the correct allocation of tasks. Compared to Alder Lake, the number of e-cores has been doubled, which significantly improves multi-thread performance in combination with a further increase in IPC. If all requirements are met, Intel Turbo Boost 3.0 can increase the clock rate of the P-cores to up to 5.4 GHz. The E-cores can also be overclocked and reach a maximum of 3.4 GHz.

Graphics

Like the Intel Core i7-12700K, the Intel Core i7-13700K offers an integrated graphics unit (iGPU). The Intel Iris Xe architecture continues to serve as the basis. In terms of performance, however, not much has changed with the new Intel UHD Graphics 770.

Power Consumption

The Intel Core i7-13700K is specified with a TDP of 125 watts, which corresponds to the PL1 value. In Boost mode, the processor's performance can increase to up to 253 watts (PL2). However, this requires good cooling. If all restrictions are deactivated in the BIOS, the PL2 value is not restricted by a Tau value.