Intel Core i5-11600K vs Intel Core i9-9900KS
The Intel Core i5-11600K is the faster processor, scoring 44/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 42/100 for the Intel Core i9-9900KS — roughly 5% faster. That said, the gap is small, so the cheaper option is often the smarter buy.
Intel Core i5-11600K
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Intel Core i9-9900KS
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Specs compared
| Spec | Intel Core i5-11600K | Intel Core i9-9900KS |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming score | 44/100 | 42/100 |
| Cores / Threads | 6 / 12 | 8 / 16 |
| Boost clock | 4.90 GHz | 5.00 GHz |
| TDP | 125 W | 127 W |
| Socket | LGA1200 | LGA1151 |
| MSRP | $179.00 | $179.00 |
Intel Core i5-11600K vs Intel Core i9-9900KS: which should you buy?
The Intel Core i5-11600K is the faster processor, scoring 44/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 42/100 for the Intel Core i9-9900KS — roughly 5% faster. That said, the gap is small, so the cheaper option is often the smarter buy. For your specific games and resolution, run both through our comparison tool, check pairing with the bottleneck calculator, or see where each lands on the tier list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Intel Core i5-11600K better than the Intel Core i9-9900KS?
The Intel Core i5-11600K is faster for gaming, scoring 44/100 versus 42/100 for the Intel Core i9-9900KS (about 5% faster).
Should I buy the Intel Core i5-11600K or the Intel Core i9-9900KS?
For raw gaming performance, choose the Intel Core i5-11600K. If it costs notably more for only a small gain, the Intel Core i9-9900KS can be the better value. Check current prices before deciding.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.