The Intel Core i7-13700K is the objective winner of this comparison, securing a lead in eight of the sixteen evaluated specifications. While the Intel Core i5-12400F holds a significant 57% advantage in MSRP, the i7-13700K provides a substantial technical edge in memory architecture. Specifically, the i7-13700K offers a 220% larger L2 cache, which stands as its most impactful performance advantage over the i5-12400F across the measured categories.

Users prioritizing budget efficiency should select the Intel Core i5-12400F, as its lower MSRP is its primary strength. Conversely, those who require the superior L2 cache capacity provided by the Intel Core i7-13700K should opt for the latter. The i7-13700K is the better choice for individuals whose workflows benefit from the increased cache size, while the i5-12400F remains the logical selection for buyers focused on the cost-related advantages identified in this comparison.