The Intel Core i3-14100 is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victories in ten out of fourteen measured specifications. Its most significant technical advantage is its L2 cache, which is 233% larger than that found in the alternative. This substantial improvement in cache capacity positions the newer processor as the superior choice for modern computing tasks that rely on efficient data handling and rapid memory access compared to the older architecture.

Users prioritizing modern efficiency and cache-heavy workloads should select the Intel Core i3-14100 for their build. Conversely, those who specifically require a higher total core count for their applications should choose the Intel Core i5-8600K, as it offers a 50% advantage in that specific category. Your final decision should depend on whether your primary computing needs favor the superior cache architecture of the newer model or the increased core count of the older unit.