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Is Intel Core i9 the best?

The Intel i9 CPU lineup proves to always make waves in the space but is it the end all be all
Sean Traynor
Last Updated on

Reviewed By: Kevin Pocock

Is Intel Core i9 the best?
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Table of Contents

The Intel Core i9 is a high-end processor that is considered one of the best available PC components on the market. It offers a high level of performance and is well-suited for tasks that require a lot of processing power, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming. Since the release of Intel's hybrid architecture with the 12th generation, the Intel Core i9 was catapulted to the top of the processor market and is still considered one of the best processors. This is especially true right now amid Intel’s 13th gen lineup.

However, whether it is the “best” processor for a particular person or task will depend on their specific needs and budget. Other options, such as AMD Ryzen 9 or Threadripper, may also be considered good depending on the use case.

One of the best characteristics of any i9 is its versatility. The processor is as good for gaming as it can be for content creation. However, AMD always delivers strong competition, at least in gaming tasks.

Intel Core i9 Specs

 Intel Core i9-13900Intel Core i9-13900KIntel Core i9-13900KS 
Cores / Threads24 / 3224 / 3224 / 32
Base Clock2.0 GHz3.0 GHz3.20 GHz
Turbo Clock5.6 GHz5.8 GHz6.00 GHz
Integrated GraphicsUHD Graphics 770UHD Graphics 770UHD Graphics 770
Cache L336MB36MB36 MB
TDP65 W125 W150 W
Launch MSRP$549$589$689

The Intel Core i9-13900, i9-13900K, and i9-13900KS are all high-end processors that offer a high level of performance. However, there are some key differences between them:

The i9-13900 has a lower base clock speed of 2.0 GHz, but still reaches a high turbo clock speed of 5.6 GHz. It also has a lower TDP of 65W, making it a more energy-efficient option.

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The i9-13900K has a higher base clock speed of 3.0 GHz, and a slightly higher turbo clock speed of 5.8 GHz. It also has a higher TDP of 125W, which may result in more heat generation.

The i9-13900KS is the highest-end option, with a higher base clock speed of 3.2 GHz, and an even higher turbo clock speed of 6.0 GHz. It also has the highest TDP of 150W, which may result in more heat generation.

In terms of price, the i9-13900 is the most affordable option, while the i9-13900KS is the most expensive.

About the Author

Sean Traynor

Sean is a tech enthusiast who contributes predominantly to networking content on PC Guide - using his knowledge and love of routers and modems to give expert advice to beginners and enthusiasts alike.