Technology
Intel K vs KF vs F: Which Processor is Right for You?

The terms “K,” “KF,” and “F” might have appeared while you were browsing for an Intel CPU and you might have been confused as to what they meant. These letters stand for numerous CPU varieties with various features and performance levels. The primary differences between Intel K, KF, and F processors will be covered in this post so you may pick the one that works best for you.
Intel K processors were designed for gamers and enthusiasts who need the best performance. They have multipliers that may be unlocked, making it easier to overclock and boost the performance of the processor. There are two popular K processor models: Core i5-7600K and Core i9-10900K. High-end workstations and gaming PCs typically use these processors.
The Core i5-7600K and the Core i9-10900K are two well-known instances of K CPUs. High-end workstations and gaming PCs frequently use these processors.
KF CPUs from Intel are comparable to K processors, however, they lack an integrated graphics processor (IGP). To display images on your monitor, you will therefore need to use a separate graphics card.
If you want to overclock your processor without worrying about overheating or if you’re designing a tiny form factor PC, KF processors are a suitable option.
Processors with the KF moniker include the Core i5-10600KF and Core i9-11900KF. These processors are often found in workstations and gaming PCs with specialized graphics cards.
Intel K processors
High-performance processors with gaming and enthusiasts in mind are Intel K processors. The fact that K CPUs have unlocked multipliers makes it simpler to overclock the processor and is one of their distinguishing characteristics.
Through overclocking, you can increase your processor’s performance by using a frequency that is higher than the factory setting. If you want your computer to run faster, this can be helpful, but it can also increase the risk of overheating and voiding the processor’s warranty.
The Core i5-7600K and Core i9-10900K are two CPUs from Intel that are examples of the K series. These CPUs are frequently found in high-end workstations and gaming PCs, where their added performance might be beneficial.
Intel KF processors
Intel KF CPUs are high-performance processors made for enthusiasts and gamers, just like K processors. To display graphics on your monitor, you must utilize a separate graphics card because KF CPUs lack an integrated graphics processor (IGP).
One of the primary distinctions between K and KF processors is that KF processors are incompatible with PCs without a dedicated graphics card due to the absence of an IGP.
The processor can use less power and produce less heat as a result of the absence of an IGP in specific circumstances, though. Building a tiny form factor PC or wanting to overclock your processor without worrying about overheating might both benefit from this.
The Core i5-10600KF and the Core i9-11900KF are two instances of Intel KF CPUs. These processors are frequently found in high-end workstations and gaming PCs that include a dedicated graphics card.
Intel F processors
In that they lack an integrated graphics processor, Intel F CPUs are comparable to KF processors. F processors, on the other hand, are made for consumers who are more cost-conscious and seeking a decent mix between performance and value. Although F processors normally cost less than K and KF processors, they function at a lesser level.
The absence of an IGP is one of the primary distinctions between F and non-F CPUs. This implies that using a separate graphics card to display images on your monitor will increase the cost of your computer as a whole.
The processor can use less power and produce less heat as a result of the absence of an IGP in specific circumstances, though.
The Core i3-10100F and the Pentium Gold G6400F are two instances of Intel F CPUs. These CPUs are frequently found in entry-level gaming PCs and low-cost workstations because of their reasonable prices and solid performance.
Decoding the Differences: A Comprehensive Guide to Intel K, KF, and F Processors
If you’re looking for an Intel processor, you may have seen the letters “K,” “KF,” and “F” and wondered what they stood for. These letters stand for several processor subtypes that provide various functionality and performance levels. We’ll go over the main distinctions among Intel K, KF, and F processors in this part so you can choose the one that’s best for you.
For enthusiasts and gamers who want the highest performance, Intel K processors were created. They have multipliers that can be unlocked, which makes it simpler to overclock and increase the processor’s performance.
The Core i5-7600K and the Core i9-10900K are two common K processor models. These processors are frequently found in high-end workstations and gaming PCs.
Similar to Intel K processors, Intel KF processors lack an integrated graphics processor (IGP). This indicates that if you want to see visuals on your monitor, you’ll need to use a different graphics card.
If you’re designing a tiny form factor PC or want to overclock your processor without worrying about overheating, KF processors are a fantastic option. The Core i5-10600KF and the Core i9-11900KF are two examples of KF CPUs. These processors are often found in workstations with dedicated graphics cards and gaming PCs.
Intel F CPUs are made for people on a tight budget that seek high performance at a lesser price. They lack an IGP, thus if you want to see visuals on your monitor, you’ll need to utilize a different graphics card.
Although F processors are more affordable than K and KF processors, they perform less well overall. The Core i3-10100F and Pentium Gold G6400F are two examples of F CPUs. These processors are frequently found in low-cost workstations and entry-level gaming PCs.
K, KF, or F: Understanding the Pros and Cons of Intel’s Processor Options
Let’s examine the benefits and drawbacks of each Intel K, KF, and F CPU type in more detail now that we have figured out how they differ from one another.
The most powerful processors are Intel K models, but they are also the priciest. They are simpler to overclock because their multipliers are unlocked, but if you want to do so, you run the risk of them overheating. For enthusiasts and gamers who are willing to pay for the finest performance, K CPUs are the ideal choice.
The lack of an integrated graphics processor (IGP) and the strong performance of Intel KF CPUs might occasionally be advantageous. They may not be appropriate for use in PCs without a dedicated graphics card because they do not perform as well as K processors. KF processors are a suitable option for workstations and gaming PCs that have a dedicated graphics card or for tiny form factor PCs without an IGP.
Although Intel F CPUs are reasonably priced, they perform less well than K and KF processors. Since they lack an IGP, an external graphics card must be used to display images on your monitor. F processors work well in entry-level gaming PCs and for consumers on a tight budget.
Unlock Your PC’s Potential: A Comparison of Intel K, KF, and F Processors
The type of CPU you select can have a significant impact on how well your PC performs. For enthusiasts and gamers who need the finest potential performance from their PC, Intel K CPUs are the ideal option since they offer the highest performance levels.
They feature multipliers that can be unlocked, which makes it simpler to overclock and increase the processor’s performance. However, K processors are also the most costly and, if you want to overclock them, they could be more prone to overheating.
The lack of an integrated graphics processor (IGP) and the strong performance of Intel KF CPUs might occasionally be advantageous.
They are a fantastic option for tiny form factor PCs without an IGP as well as workstations and gaming PCs with a dedicated graphics card. Although KF processors are a little less costly than K processors, they do not perform as well.
Although Intel F CPUs are reasonably priced, they perform less well than K and KF processors. Since they lack an IGP, an external graphics card must be used to display images on your monitor. F processors work well in entry-level gaming PCs and for consumers on a tight budget.
Intel Processor Showdown: K vs KF vs F – What’s the Best Choice for Your Needs?
F processor can be the best option for you if you have a limited budget and demand exceptional value. Although F processors have lower performance levels than K and KF processors, they nonetheless deliver decent performance for the money. Since they lack an IGP, an external graphics card must be used to display images on your monitor. F processors work well in entry-level gaming PCs and for consumers on a tight budget.
You might be wondering which Intel K, KF, or F CPU is the best option for your needs now that we’ve covered the main distinctions between them. The key factors to think about while choosing between K, KF, and F processors are outlined below:
- For enthusiasts and gamers who need the finest potential performance from their PC, Intel K CPUs are the ideal option since they offer the highest performance levels. Although they are the priciest, they feature multipliers that can be unlocked, making it simpler to overclock the processor and improve performance.
- The lack of an integrated graphics processor (IGP) and the strong performance of Intel KF CPUs might occasionally be advantageous. They are a fantastic option for tiny form factor PCs without an IGP as well as workstations and gaming PCs with a dedicated graphics card. Although KF processors are a little less costly than K processors, they do not perform as well.
- Although Intel F CPUs are reasonably priced, they perform less well than K and KF processors. Since they lack an IGP, an external graphics card must be used to display images on your monitor. F processors work well in entry-level gaming PCs and for consumers on a tight budget.
Processor Type | Unlocked Multipliers | Integrated Graphics Processor (IGP) | Performance Level | Price | Best Use Cases |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Intel K | Yes | Yes | High | High | Gaming PCs, high-end workstations, enthusiasts looking for the highest performance |
Intel KF | Yes | No | High | High | Gaming PCs with dedicated graphics cards, high-end workstations with dedicated graphics cards, small form factor PCs, enthusiasts looking to overclock without worrying about overheating |
Intel F | No | No | Moderate | Low | Entry-level gaming PCs, budget workstations, budget-conscious consumers looking for good value |
Here is a brief explanation of each column in the table:
- Processor Type: The next column lists the various Intel processor types that are being contrasted: KF, F, and K.
Unlocked Multipliers: The presence or absence of unlocked multipliers, which facilitate simpler overclocking, is indicated by this column for each processor. In contrast to F CPUs, K and KF processors feature unlocked multipliers. - Integrated Graphics Processor (IGP): This column indicates whether or not the processor includes an integrated graphics processor, which enables the processor to display images on a monitor without the need for an additional graphics card. While KF processors lack an IGP, K and F processors do.
- Performance Level: This column displays the processor’s overall performance level, with “High” denoting the maximum level of performance and “Moderate” denoting a more average level. The highest performance level is achieved by K processors, followed by KF processors, and finally F processors.
- Price: “High” denotes the most costly processors, while “Low” denotes the least expensive. This column shows the overall price range for each type of CPU. The most expensive processors are typically K and KF, whereas the least expensive processors are typically F processors.
- Best Use Cases: The situations or uses that are best suited to each type of processor are listed in this column. The best processors for gaming PCs and workstations with dedicated graphics cards are K processors, KF processors, and F processors, respectively. The least expensive and entry-level gaming PCs should use F processors.
Conclusion
The ideal option for you will rely on your demands in terms of performance and price. Intel K, KF, and F CPUs all provide varying degrees of performance and functionality.
For enthusiasts and gamers who need the finest potential performance from their PC, K CPUs are the ideal option since they provide the highest performance levels. KF processors are a suitable option for workstations with a dedicated graphics card and gaming PCs since they provide high performance and lack an IGP.
F processors are reasonably priced yet perform less well than K and KF processors. They work well with entry-level gaming PCs and users on a budget.
FAQ’s
- What distinguishes Intel K, KF, and F processors from one another?
Intel KF processors lack an integrated GPU, F processors are locked and do not support overclocking, while K processors are unlocked and do.
- What similarities and differences exist between the K, KF, and F processors from Intel?
In general, K and KF processors are more potent and capable of higher performance than F processors, but they also use more energy and produce more heat.
- Which processor is ideal for high-performance work or gaming?
Gaming or high-performance jobs like video editing or 3D rendering may benefit from Intel K or KF processors.
- Can I overclock a K or KF processor from Intel?
Yes, Intel K and KF processors can be overclocked and unlocked.
- Are there any changes between the Intel K, KF, and F processors in terms of power usage or heat output?
Compared to F processors, K and KF processors typically consume more power and produce more heat.
- I have an Intel F processor; can I upgrade to a K or KF processor?
It is feasible to upgrade from an Intel F processor to a K or KF processor, but in order to assure compatibility, you might also need to change your motherboard and other components.
- When deciding between Intel K, KF, and F processors, are there any compatibility difficulties or other things to take into account?
When deciding between Intel K, KF, and F CPUs, you should take into account your unique objectives and goals, your budget, your motherboard’s compatibility with other components, and the differences in features and capabilities.
- Are there any further sources (websites, discussion boards, etc.) that can assist me in choosing the best processor type for me?
You may compare and select the best processor for your needs using a variety of online resources, including forums and websites devoted to computer hardware. Before making a choice, it is usually a good idea to conduct your own study and evaluate the features and specs of several CPUs.
Technology
Pintarnya raises $16.7M to power jobs and financial services in Indonesia

Pintarnya, an Indonesian employment platform that goes beyond job matching by offering financial services along with full-time and side-gig opportunities, said it has raised a $16.7 million Series A round.
The funding was led by Square Peg with participation from existing investors Vertex Venture Southeast Asia & India and East Ventures.
Ghirish Pokardas, Nelly Nurmalasari, and Henry Hendrawan founded Pintarnya in 2022 to tackle two of the biggest challenges Indonesians face daily: earning enough and borrowing responsibly.
“Traditionally, mass workers in Indonesia find jobs offline through job fairs or word of mouth, with employers buried in paper applications and candidates rarely hearing back. For borrowing, their options are often limited to family/friend or predatory lenders with harsh collection practices,” Henry Hendrawan, co-founder of Pintarnya, told TechCrunch. “We digitize job matching with AI to make hiring faster and we provide workers with safer, healthier lending options — designed around what they can reasonably afford, rather than pushing them deeper into debt.”
Around 59% of Indonesia’s 150 million workforce is employed in the informal sector, highlighting the difficulties these workers encounter in accessing formal financial services because they lack verifiable income and official employment documentation.
Pintarnya tackles this challenge by partnering with asset-backed lenders to offer secured loans, using collateral such as gold, electronics, or vehicles, Hendrawan added.
Since its seed funding in 2022, the platform currently serves over 10 million job seeker users and 40,000 employers nationwide. Its revenue has increased almost fivefold year-over-year and expects to reach break-even by the end of the year, Hendrawn noted. Pintarnya primarily serves users aged 21 to 40, most of whom have a high school education or a diploma below university level. The startup aims to focus on this underserved segment, given the large population of blue-collar and informal workers in Indonesia.
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“Through the journey of building employment services, we discovered that our users needed more than just jobs — they needed access to financial services that traditional banks couldn’t provide,” said Hendrawan. “We digitize job matching with AI to make hiring faster and we provide workers with safer, healthier lending options — designed around what they can reasonably afford, rather than pushing them deeper into debt.”

While Indonesia already has job platforms like JobStreet, Kalibrr, and Glints, these primarily cater to white-collar roles, which represent only a small portion of the workforce, according to Hendrawan. Pintarnya’s platform is designed specifically for blue-collar workers, offering tailored experiences such as quick-apply options for walk-in interviews, affordable e-learning on relevant skills, in-app opportunities for supplemental income, and seamless connections to financial services like loans.
The same trend is evident in Indonesia’s fintech sector, which similarly caters to white-collar or upper-middle-class consumers. Conventional credit scoring models for loans, which rely on steady monthly income and bank account activity, often leave blue-collar workers overlooked by existing fintech providers, Hendrawan explained.
When asked about which fintech services are most in demand, Hendrawan mentioned, “Given their employment status, lending is the most in-demand financial service for Pintarnya’s users today. We are planning to ‘graduate’ them to micro-savings and investments down the road through innovative products with our partners.”
The new funding will enable Pintarnya to strengthen its platform technology and broaden its financial service offerings through strategic partnerships. With most Indonesian workers employed in blue-collar and informal sectors, the co-founders see substantial growth opportunities in the local market. Leveraging their extensive experience in managing businesses across Southeast Asia, they are also open to exploring regional expansion when the timing is right.
“Our vision is for Pintarnya to be the everyday companion that empowers Indonesians to not only make ends meet today, but also plan, grow, and upgrade their lives tomorrow … In five years, we see Pintarnya as the go-to super app for Indonesia’s workers, not just for earning income, but as a trusted partner throughout their life journey,” Hendrawan said. “We want to be the first stop when someone is looking for work, a place that helps them upgrade their skills, and a reliable guide as they make financial decisions.”
Technology
OpenAI warns against SPVs and other ‘unauthorized’ investments

In a new blog post, OpenAI warns against “unauthorized opportunities to gain exposure to OpenAI through a variety of means,” including special purpose vehicles, known as SPVs.
“We urge you to be careful if you are contacted by a firm that purports to have access to OpenAI, including through the sale of an SPV interest with exposure to OpenAI equity,” the company writes. The blog post acknowledges that “not every offer of OpenAI equity […] is problematic” but says firms may be “attempting to circumvent our transfer restrictions.”
“If so, the sale will not be recognized and carry no economic value to you,” OpenAI says.
Investors have increasingly used SPVs (which pool money for one-off investments) as a way to buy into hot AI startups, prompting other VCs to criticize them as a vehicle for “tourist chumps.”
Business Insider reports that OpenAI isn’t the only major AI company looking to crack down on SPVs, with Anthropic reportedly telling Menlo Ventures it must use its own capital, not an SPV, to invest in an upcoming round.
Technology
Meta partners with Midjourney on AI image and video models

Meta is partnering with Midjourney to license the startup’s AI image and video generation technology, Meta Chief AI Officer Alexandr Wang announced Friday in a post on Threads. Wang says Meta’s research teams will collaborate with Midjourney to bring its technology into future AI models and products.
“To ensure Meta is able to deliver the best possible products for people it will require taking an all-of-the-above approach,” Wang said. “This means world-class talent, ambitious compute roadmap, and working with the best players across the industry.”
The Midjourney partnership could help Meta develop products that compete with industry-leading AI image and video models, such as OpenAI’s Sora, Black Forest Lab’s Flux, and Google’s Veo. Last year, Meta rolled out its own AI image generation tool, Imagine, into several of its products, including Facebook, Instagram, and Messenger. Meta also has an AI video generation tool, Movie Gen, that allows users to create videos from prompts.
The licensing agreement with Midjourney marks Meta’s latest deal to get ahead in the AI race. Earlier this year, CEO Mark Zuckerberg went on a hiring spree for AI talent, offering some researchers compensation packages worth upwards of $100 million. The social media giant also invested $14 billion in Scale AI, and acquired the AI voice startup Play AI.
Meta has held talks with several other leading AI labs about other acquisitions, and Zuckerberg even spoke with Elon Musk about joining his $97 billion takeover bid of OpenAI (Meta ultimately did not join the offer, and OpenAI denied Musk’s bid).
While the terms of Meta’s deal with Midjourney remain unknown, the startup’s CEO, David Holz, said in a post on X that his company remains independent with no investors; Midjourney is one of the few leading AI model developers that has never taken on outside funding. At one point, Meta talked with Midjourney about acquiring the startup, according to Upstarts Media.
Midjourney was founded in 2022 and quickly became a leader in the AI image generation space for its realistic, unique style. By 2023, the startup was reportedly on pace to generate $200 million in revenue. The startup sells subscriptions starting at $10 per month. It offers pricier tiers, which offer more AI image generations, that cost as much as $120 per month. In June, the startup released its first AI video model, V1.
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Meta’s partnership with Midjourney comes just two months after the startup was sued by Disney and Universal, alleging that it trained AI image models on copyrighted works. Several AI model developers — including Meta — face similar allegations from copyright holders, however, recent court cases pertaining to AI training data have sided with tech companies.
Got a sensitive tip or confidential documents? We’re reporting on the inner workings of the AI industry — from the companies shaping its future to the people impacted by their decisions. Reach out to Rebecca Bellan at [email protected] and Maxwell Zeff at [email protected]. For secure communication, you can contact us via Signal at @rebeccabellan.491 and @mzeff.88.
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