The Intel Core i5-14600KF 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 1233% 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 metrics.

Users prioritizing modern architecture and high-capacity cache should select the Intel Core i5-14600KF for their system builds. Conversely, the Intel Core i7-8700K remains a viable option for those who specifically require a lower Max Turbo Power, as it holds a 48% advantage in that category. Choosing between these components depends on whether your workload benefits more from the massive cache improvements of the newer processor or the power efficiency profile of the older model.