Intel

Intel Core i9-10900KF

The no-iGPU variant of Intel's 10-core LGA1200 flagship, with 20 threads and a 5.3 GHz boost at a typically lower used price than the standard 10900K.

75/100
Very good
Overall score · how we rate
10 cores / 20 threads5.3 GHz boostNo integrated graphicsLGA1200 socketUsed market only
£401best price at Amazon
In stock at 2 retailers

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Independent score · no sponsored placement
Price checked across retailers daily

Why we rate it

  • Same performance as 10900K, lower price
  • 5.3 GHz single-core ceiling
  • Ten cores with 20 threads
  • Cheap LGA1200 platform
  • No integrated graphics
  • LGA1200 is end of life
Score profile

Where the Intel Core i9-10900KF wins and loses

Scored against the cpus class
GamingMulti-threa…UsedPlatform70687876
Gaming performance
70
Multi-threaded performance
68
Used price value
78
Platform cost
76
Full specification

Specifications

Grouped · supported features marked in blue

General info

SocketLGA1200

Cores and threads

Cores10
Threads20

Clocks and cache

Turbo / boost clock5.3 GHz

Watch it in action

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Who it's for

Is the Intel Core i9-10900KF right for you?

Buy it if
LGA1200 builds with discrete GPU

If you already have a Z490 board and always use a discrete GPU, the 10900KF at a lower price than the 10900K is the sensible pick. Identical performance, lower cost.

Skip it if
Fresh builds or iGPU fallback needed

For fresh builds, LGA1700 or AM4 are better platforms. And if there's any chance of needing display output without a GPU, the 10900K's iGPU is worth the small premium.

LGA1200 upgrade with discrete GPU
Has a Z490 board and always uses a dedicated GPU. The 10900KF delivers the 10900K's full performance at a lower used price.
good
Budget 10-core gaming build
Needs a 10-core LGA1200 system at minimum cost. The 10900KF at a low used price delivers the highest Comet Lake gaming performance.
okay
Productivity and gaming mixed user
Needs 20 threads for moderate rendering or encoding alongside gaming. The 10900KF handles this adequately at budget used prices.
okay
Fresh build buyer
LGA1700 or AM4 deliver better performance and platforms for new builds. Don't start fresh on LGA1200.
skip
Common questions

Before you buy

What is the difference between the i9-10900K and i9-10900KF?

The 10900K has integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630. The 10900KF has no iGPU. Performance is identical. The KF is typically cheaper and makes sense when you always use a discrete GPU.

What is the actual boost clock of the i9-10900KF?

Up to 5.3 GHz via Turbo Boost Max 3.0. This is the same as the i9-10900K. Some retailer listings show lower figures, but the chip's actual maximum single-core boost is 5.3 GHz.

What boards are compatible with the i9-10900KF?

Intel 400-series boards only: Z490, B460, H470, H410. Not compatible with Z590 or B560 boards for 11th gen.

Is the i9-10900KF better than the 10850K?

The 10900KF has a slightly higher 5.3 GHz boost versus 5.2 GHz. Performance difference is minimal. Compare used prices and buy the cheaper option.