Intel Core i5-9600K vs Intel Core i3-13100
These two processors score identically for gaming. Core count, power draw and platform cost decide it.
| Specification | Intel Core i5-9600K | Intel Core i3-13100 |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming score | 58/100 | 58/100 |
| Tier | C | C |
| Manufacturer | Intel | Intel |
| Cores | 6 | 4 |
| Threads | 6 | 8 |
| Base clock | 3.7 GHz | 3.4 GHz |
| Boost clock | 4.6 GHz | 4.5 GHz |
| Power draw (TDP) | 95 W | 60 W |
| Release year | 2018 | 2023 |
Which should you buy?
Gaming performance is a tie between these two, so the decision comes down to the factors below. The Intel Core i5-9600K has more cores (6 vs 4), which helps if you stream, compile or render alongside playing. The Intel Core i3-13100 runs 35W cooler, meaning a cheaper cooler and less case heat. Either way, pair it with a graphics card of similar standing — check the bottleneck calculator before you buy.