AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core, 24-Thread Unlocked vs ASUS Intel Core i7-13700 16 Core Desktop Processor LGA
Updated August 2026 — AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core, 24-Thread Unlocked wins on price and gaming, ASUS Intel Core i7-13700 16 Core Desktop Processor LGA wins on core count and power.
The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X offers superior gaming performance and better value, while the Intel Core i7-13700 excels in versatility and power efficiency.
Why AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core, 24-Thread Unlocked is better
Price
Ryzen 9 5900X is $368.00 compared to $429.99 for i7-13700.
Gaming
Ryzen 9 5900X delivers elite 100+ FPS performance.
Max Boost
Ryzen 9 5900X has a max boost of 4.8 GHz.
Why ASUS Intel Core i7-13700 16 Core Desktop Processor LGA is better
Core Count
i7-13700 has 16 cores compared to 12 in Ryzen 9 5900X.
Integrated Graphics
i7-13700 includes Intel UHD Graphics 770.
Power Efficiency
i7-13700 has a base power rating of 65W.
Overall score
Specifications
| Spec | AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core, 24-Thread Unlocked | ASUS Intel Core i7-13700 16 Core Desktop Processor LGA |
|---|---|---|
| Cores | 12 | 16 |
| Threads | 24 | 24 |
| Max Boost | 4.8 GHz | 5.2 GHz |
| Cache | 70 MB | 30 MB |
| Integrated GPU | No | Yes |
Dimension comparison
Price Comparison
When it comes to pricing, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X 12-core is about 14% cheaper than the Intel Core i7-13700. The Ryzen 9 5900X is currently priced at $368.00, while the Intel Core i7-13700 is priced at $429.99. For those looking for a high-performance CPU without breaking the bank, the Ryzen 9 5900X offers an enticing value proposition. Additionally, the average price over the last 90 days for the Ryzen 9 is $271.00, suggesting that it has been even more affordable recently compared to the i7-13700, which has an average price of $370.69.
Core Count and Thread Performance
In terms of core count and threading, the Intel Core i7-13700 has a higher total core count, boasting 16 cores compared to the 12 cores of the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X. However, both processors feature 24 threads, thanks to simultaneous multithreading technology. The i7-13700 includes 8 performance cores and 8 efficiency cores, which can optimize performance for various tasks. This configuration makes the i7-13700 particularly effective for high-end gaming and professional content creation, while the Ryzen 9 5900X remains a strong contender for gaming dominance with its 4.8 GHz max boost clock speed.
Gaming Performance
When it comes to gaming performance, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is touted as the "world's best gaming desktop processor." It can deliver elite performance, exceeding 100 FPS in many popular games. This makes it a top choice for gamers who prioritize frame rates and smooth gameplay. Meanwhile, the Intel Core i7-13700 also excels in gaming, leveraging its 16-core design to handle demanding gaming scenarios effectively. While both CPUs are capable of providing outstanding gaming experiences, the Ryzen 9 5900X has a slight edge in terms of established performance metrics in gaming benchmarks.
Cooling Solutions
Cooling solutions are essential for maintaining optimal performance in high-performance CPUs. The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X does not come with a cooler included, and a high-performance cooler is recommended, with a maximum temperature of 90°C. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-13700 also comes without a cooler, which means both processors will require additional investment in aftermarket cooling solutions. Given that both CPUs are unlocked for overclocking, effective cooling becomes even more critical to ensure stability and performance during intensive tasks.
Compatibility and Motherboard Support
The AMD Ryzen 9 5900X is compatible with the advanced Socket AM4 platform and supports PCIe 4.0 on X570 and B550 motherboards. This compatibility allows for enhanced performance with modern graphics cards and storage solutions. Conversely, the Intel Core i7-13700 utilizes the LGA 1700 socket and supports both DDR4 and newer DDR5 memory types, with a maximum memory size of 128 GB. This flexibility allows users to build a future-proof system, as DDR5 memory becomes more widely adopted.
Power Consumption
Power consumption is another important factor to consider when comparing these two processors. The Intel Core i7-13700 has a processor base power rating of 65W, which may appeal to those looking for energy-efficient performance. In contrast, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X does not specify a base power consumption figure but is generally known to consume more power under load due to its higher performance capabilities. Therefore, if energy efficiency is a priority, the i7-13700 may be the better option.
Integrated Graphics
The inclusion of integrated graphics can be a deciding factor for many users. The Intel Core i7-13700 features Intel UHD Graphics 770, providing decent performance for non-gaming tasks or light gaming without a dedicated GPU. In contrast, the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X does not come with integrated graphics, meaning users will need a separate graphics card for any visual output. This could be a disadvantage for users who prefer a simpler build without a dedicated GPU but still need to perform basic tasks like browsing or office work.
Which should you buy?
In conclusion, the choice between the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X and the Intel Core i7-13700 largely depends on your specific needs and budget. The Ryzen 9 5900X offers superior gaming performance and is more affordable at $368.00, making it an excellent choice for gamers and high-performance tasks. However, the i7-13700 shines with its higher core count, integrated graphics, and lower power consumption, making it a strong contender for users seeking versatility for both gaming and professional applications. Ultimately, if budget is a key concern and gaming performance is a priority, the Ryzen 9 5900X may be the better buy. Conversely, if you need a well-rounded CPU that excels in both productivity and gaming, the Intel Core i7-13700 could be worth the extra investment.

