Intel Core i9-13900K vs Intel Core i9-13900KS
The Intel Core i9-13900KS is the faster chip for gaming by roughly 1%. Here is the full spec-by-spec breakdown.
| Specification | Intel Core i9-13900K | Intel Core i9-13900KS |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming score | 92/100 | 93/100 |
| Tier | S | S |
| Manufacturer | Intel | Intel |
| Cores | 24 | 24 |
| Threads | 32 | 32 |
| Base clock | 3 GHz | 3 GHz |
| Boost clock | 5.8 GHz | 6 GHz |
| Power draw (TDP) | 125 W | 150 W |
| Release year | 2022 | 2023 |
Which should you buy?
For gaming specifically, the Intel Core i9-13900KS is the better buy — it holds a 1% lead in our index, which shows up most at 1080p and in CPU-bound titles like strategy and simulation games. The Intel Core i9-13900K runs 25W 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.