Intel Core i5-3570K vs Intel Core i3-8100

The Intel Core i3-8100 is the faster chip for gaming by roughly 3%. Here is the full spec-by-spec breakdown.

Intel Core i3-8100 wins — about 3% faster for gaming
Specification Intel Core i5-3570K Intel Core i3-8100
Gaming score 37/100 38/100
Tier D D
Manufacturer Intel Intel
Cores 4 4
Threads 4 4
Base clock 3.4 GHz 3.6 GHz
Boost clock 3.8 GHz 3.6 GHz
Power draw (TDP) 77 W 65 W
Release year 2012 2017

Which should you buy?

For gaming specifically, the Intel Core i3-8100 is the better buy — it holds a 3% lead in our index, which shows up most at 1080p and in CPU-bound titles like strategy and simulation games. The Intel Core i3-8100 runs 12W cooler, meaning a cheaper cooler and less case heat. Either way, pair it with a graphics card of similar standing — check the bottleneck calculator before you buy.