Which Intel CPUs are worth the price?
Which Intel CPUs are worth the price?
You're asking about the i5 11400, its current price compared to its MSRP, and whether the 10700k and 10850k variants offer solid options.
Up until now, the i5 11400 and the older 10400 offer great value. Intel’s pricing really hinges on the motherboard you choose to match these CPUs. If you manage to get a 10th generation processor, like the 10700/K, you often find a solid discount.
For casual gaming, both 10th and 11th generation systems perform similarly overall. Their strengths shift based on the game. When it comes to productivity, 11th generation provides a noticeable improvement. What are your plans for using your computer?
11400(F) and 11700(F) stand out as the best options you're considering. The 11700(F) really shines, especially with a decent VRM B560, marking a significant upgrade for high-end non-K CPUs. Personally, I’d still prefer the 5600x, but keep in mind what’s available and reasonably priced for both CPU and motherboard.
F represents the most affordable option. I adjusted it in my initial comment, but remember they don’t include a GPU—so you’d need to purchase a Nvidia 710/730 if you sold your GPU and can’t replace it. In the US, with today’s prices, stock availability, and AMD 5600x, a microcent 10700 (F) could make sense. If you have access to a budget board like the 3000 series, it might be cheaper than what you’d find on Amazon or Newegg. Verify that the boards at Microcent are truly lower in cost compared to alternatives from AMD and Intel. If an Intel setup is about $30 more than the AMD combo, skip the Intel option.