13600K vs 13700K
13600K vs 13700K
For a gaming PC lasting 5-7 years at 1440p/4K, you’d likely choose a CPU that balances performance and longevity. The 13600K remains a solid choice now, but as technology evolves, newer chips may offer better efficiency and future-proofing. A 13700K could be worth considering if it delivers higher performance per watt, though its value depends on how quickly CPUs advance.
depends what your gpu is. For 1440p the 13600k can even power the 4090 (in some cases) but if your gonna use a 4090 I would go for a 13700 non k. And yes there is a pretty big difference as the 13600k normally trades blows with the r7 7700 while the 13700k is right behind the 7800X3D (though the i7 uses more power and gets toastier)
Considering the rapid changes in technology, it's hard to predict exactly what will be available next year. You're leaning toward a specific model like the i7, which offers better performance. A GPU upgrade might be more practical than a CPU upgrade if you're looking for immediate improvement. The 7800X3D is a strong contender, but the decision ultimately depends on your budget and needs. If you can invest in the 7900XTX now and plan for future upgrades, it could work well. Choose what fits your situation best.
Absolutely! I've found that investing in premium components has paid off, letting me extend GPU usage while upgrading my CPU. A newer CPU simply allows for more powerful and efficient GPUs over time.
Intel's monolithic die binning affects performance differences across SKUs such as i3, i5, i7, and i9. Higher-end models offer more cores while maintaining a unified L3 cache. AMD's 3D v-cache CPUs demonstrate the benefits of increased cache size, making it worthwhile to invest in the best available Intel CPU that fits your budget. The additional two P cores on the 13700k paired with 6MB of L3 cache are notable upgrades. If your budget allows and thermal constraints are manageable, these features are worth evaluating. Intel's Smart Cache metrics show flagship chips at 24MB, 30MB, and 36MB respectively. Each P core grants access to 3MB, while each E core cluster (four E cores) also provides 3MB.
Others have mentioned that the 7800X3D offers better gaming speed and lower power use, but it seems more logical to choose an i7 instead of an i5.
I wouldn't use AM5 with a long pole and protective gear right now. It has more problems than the newer 12th and 13th generation Intel chips. AMD usually only makes sense once the socket gets fixed around mid-life. The main problem with Intel is latency, while AM5 is still working on stable BIOs. Yeah, AMD is always talking big bucks. The 14th gen should come out in October, so it's better to wait and either grab a deal on the 13th generation or go all-in on the new i7-14700k which reportedly has 20 cores instead of 16.
I’ve faced the same dilemma myself—Intel or AMD? I’m not sure yet, but I don’t want to wait until October anymore. It’s been too long since I started looking. My current setup is an i7 6700K, and there have been several reasons I haven’t upgraded yet, but I’m eager to get it done soon.
The upcoming 14th generation will offer solid performance thanks to additional cores. Do you have a nearby microcenter? If yes, you could secure an i7-12700K with a motherboard and RAM bundle for around $350 before taxes. This appears to be the most competitive gaming build option available today, only slightly surpassing a 13600K in price—perhaps just 3-5% less noticeable. You might consider upgrading later if needed. The 14th generation is so near that I don’t think it’s worth spending on a 13700K right now.