The Intel Core i5-14400 is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victory in seven out of fourteen measured specifications. Its most significant advantage over the Intel Core i3-13100F is its total core count, which is 150% higher. This substantial increase in processing hardware provides a clear lead in multi-threaded capability, establishing the i5-14400 as the superior option for users prioritizing raw core density and overall system throughput.

Users focused on budget efficiency should select the Intel Core i3-13100F, as it holds a 51% advantage in MSRP compared to the alternative. Conversely, the Intel Core i5-14400 is the correct choice for those who require the expanded core count for more demanding workloads. By weighing the lower cost of the i3-13100F against the core-heavy architecture of the i5-14400, buyers can align their purchase with either financial constraints or performance requirements.