Intel Core i5-13600KF vs. Intel Core i9-12900F - Better for Gaming?

Started by weekendyoo on May 11, 2024

I'm planning to upgrade my gaming PC and am torn between the Intel Core i5-13600KF and the Intel Core i9-12900F. Can anyone share some insights on which would be better for gaming? I've been reading a bit about them online but it's hard to make a decision.

Solved by mnnice99 in post #9
Yeah, you might want to check out TechReviewer's article Intel Core i5-13600KF vs. Intel Core i9-12900F for some in-depth analysis on how memory speed impacts gaming performance. It could help you make a more informed decision.

In terms of raw performance, the i9-12900F is the better choice due to its higher core count and slightly higher base frequency. However, the i5-13600KF isn't too far behind and offers good game performance as well.

That's right! Also, the TechReviewer article Intel Core i5-13600KF vs. Intel Core i9-12900F does a great job of comparing these two CPUs in detail. It might help you make your decision.

Thanks for sharing that link, @mnnice99! According to the article, what are the key differences between the i5-13600KF and the i9-12900F?

The main difference is the number of cores and base frequencies. The i9-12900F has 8 performance cores and a base frequency of 2.40 GHz, while the i5-13600KF has 6 performance cores with a base frequency of 3.50 GHz.

Additionally, the i9-12900F supports DDR5 with a max stock speed of 4800 MHz, whereas the i5-13600KF supports DDR5 with a max stock speed of 5600 MHz. This could make a difference in certain games and applications.

That's interesting! I'm more concerned about gaming performance though. Would the higher memory speed on the i5-13600KF make a noticeable difference in my games?

The impact of memory speed on gaming performance can vary depending on the game and its requirements. Some games are more dependent on CPU cores and frequencies, while others benefit more from faster memory speeds.

Yeah, you might want to check out TechReviewer's article Intel Core i5-13600KF vs. Intel Core i9-12900F for some in-depth analysis on how memory speed impacts gaming performance. It could help you make a more informed decision.

Solution

@Camick17 and @mnnice99! I'll definitely take a look at that article. In the meantime, if anyone has personal experience with these CPUs or can share their thoughts on which one they prefer for gaming, I'd love to hear it!

I've used both CPUs in my gaming setup, and I must say the i9-12900F offers better overall performance due to its increased core count, L3 cache capacity, and slightly higher base frequency. However, the i5-13600KF is still more than capable of delivering good game performance.

Thanks for your input, @Swanovan! It sounds like the i9-12900F might be the better choice if I want the best possible gaming performance, but I'm also considering my budget. Any suggestions on how to make this decision?