Core i5-10600K
Intel
PassMark
14,247
MSRP
$262
AVG Price
$179
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Core i5-10600K is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 30 April 2020 (5 years ago). It is based on the Comet Lake (2020−2025) architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads. Base frequency is 4.1 GHz, with boost up to 4.8 GHz. L3 cache: 12 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1200. Thermal design power (TDP): 125 Watt. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 14,247 points. Launch price was $262.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core i5-10600K
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i5-10600K across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
Cyberpunk 2077
Dead by Daylight
Destiny 2
Euro Truck Simulator 2
League of Legends
Minecraft
Monster Hunter Wilds
Overwatch 2
Path of Exile 2
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i5-10600K specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i5-10600K is a 6-core / 12-thread processor based on the Comet Lake (2020−2025) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.8 GHz from a base frequency of 4.1 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 12 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256K (per core) of L2 cache and 64K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 14,247, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Aging generation product.
| Specification | Core i5-10600K |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 6C / 12T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.8 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 4.1 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Comet Lake (2020−2025) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 12 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 256K (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64K (per core) |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 8 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 14,247 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i5-10600K fits into the LGA1200 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2666 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 128 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 630 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i5-10600K |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1200 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 16 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2666 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 128 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Intel 400 series |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Power & Cooling
The Core i5-10600K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 125 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core i5-10600K |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 125 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $179 (MSRP: $262), the Core i5-10600K delivers 80 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #1054 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i5-10600K |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $262 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $179 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $262 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1054 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 30 April 2020 (5 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2020 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Core i5-10600K
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High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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