Intel may be about to out-AMD AMD in the budget CPU market

Intel Core i5 13400F CPU in a motherboard socket — (Image credit: Future)

The first rumored specs on Intel's Raptor Lake refresh, aka the new Core 14000-series CPUs, are here, and according to this SWEclocker report (via Videocardz), the big winners this fall are going to be budget gaming desktop builders.

The Raptor Lake refresh is not considered a new CPU generation but rather an update for the existing Core i9, i7, i5, and i3 13000-series. Based on the leaked information, the most significant and intriguing update will be seen in the Core i5 14440F, which is said to be getting an increased core count.

The Intel Core i5 13400F was already our favorite budget gaming CPU, with 10 cores and 16 threads. Our review praised its gaming performance and competitive price of just under $300. It's a fantastic choice for system builders looking to save cash.

Previously, AMD has employed this strategy of increasing core counts when the competition isn't, and Intel seems to have taken a cue. We've already seen how AMD is quietly smashing Intel in the mobile chip game with its Zen 4-based 7000-series mobile processors; it's good to see Intel taking a stab at it improving its standing in the budget CPU market.

Jorge is a hardware writer from the enchanted lands of New Jersey. When he's not filling the office with the smell of Pop-Tarts, he's reviewing all sorts of gaming hardware, from laptops with the latest mobile GPUs to gaming chairs with built-in back massagers. He's been covering games and tech for over ten years and has written for Dualshockers, WCCFtech, Tom's Guide, and a bunch of other places on the world wide web.