The Intel Core i5-14400 is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victories in ten out of fourteen measured specifications. Its most significant technical advantage is the L2 cache, which is 533% larger than that of the Intel Core i7-8700K. This substantial increase in cache capacity represents the primary performance differentiator between the two processors, providing the newer model with a clear architectural lead across the majority of the evaluated categories.

Users prioritizing modern architecture and the benefits of a significantly larger L2 cache should select the Intel Core i5-14400 for their system. Conversely, the Intel Core i7-8700K remains a viable option for those who specifically require a 48% higher base clock speed. Choosing between these components depends on whether your workload relies more heavily on the expanded cache capacity of the newer processor or the higher base frequency offered by the older model.