Performance comparison: which is faster?
Core i5-10600 (Intel, 2020) and Core i7-8700K (Intel, 2018) are compared here. Compare not only scores, but also whether the motherboard can be reused and which GPU class is balanced with each CPU.
Overall performance: nearly equal
The sockets differ (LGA1200 / LGA1151), so switching requires a motherboard replacement. For games, performance balance with the GPU (guideline CPU:GPU = 0.9:1) matters more than CPU speed alone.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual speed varies by workload, cooling, and memory configuration.
| Item | i5-10600 | i7-8700K |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 15,500 | 15,500 |
| Generation | 10th Gen | 8th Gen |
| Socket | LGA1200 | LGA1151 |
| Release Year | 2020 | 2018 |
| Type | Desktop | Desktop |
| Compatible GPU Example | GeForce RTX 5060 | GeForce RTX 4060 |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize maximum speed for heavy work or a high-end GPU | i5-10600 |
| Upgrade while reusing the current motherboard | Choose the CPU matching your motherboard socket |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | i5-10600 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
Their scores are nearly identical (i5-10600: 15500 points / i7-8700K: 15500 points). Choose the less expensive option or the one that fits your current motherboard.
i5-10600 is 10th Gen, while i7-8700K is 8th Gen.The sockets differ (LGA1200 / LGA1151), so switching requires a motherboard replacement.
Using our CPU:GPU = 0.9:1 guideline, GeForce RTX 5060 pairs well with i5-10600 and GeForce RTX 4060 pairs well with i7-8700K. If either GPU is too strong or too weak, one part holds the other back.
