Core i5-12600K

Core i5-12600K Specifications

The Core i5-12600K is built on the Alder Lake architecture and manufactured using the 10 nm process. It is compatible with the LGA 1700 socket and supports DDR4 / DDR5 memory with speeds of up to 4800 MT/s. This processor features 6 performance cores operating at a base clock of 3.70 GHz and a boost clock of 4.90 GHz , along with 4 efficiency cores running at a base clock of 2.80 GHz and boosting up to 3.60 GHz , and includes 16 threads. It also comes equipped with 9 MB of L2 cache and 20 MB of L3 cache.

This CPU has a base TDP of 125 W and a moderate maximum TDP of 150 W. Most mid-range aftermarket air coolers are sufficient for thermal control. This processor is also suitable for small form factor builds, which often have limited airflow.

For users who require integrated graphics, this CPU includes the UHD Graphics 770, which features 32 GPU cores. It operates at a base clock of 0.30 GHz and boosts up to 1.45 GHz. This makes it suitable for systems without a dedicated GPU, capable of handling everyday tasks and running older or less demanding games. Integrated graphics can also accelerate specific workloads even when a discrete GPU is installed.

Core i5-12600K Application Performance and Gaming Benchmark Analysis

Application Performance

Core i5-12600K is an entry-level CPU, achieving a relative application performance score of 42.24% of the best possible desktop CPU performance. This CPU handles daily computing, coding, light gaming, productivity, and basic multitasking. Not recommended for heavy workloads or professional-grade applications.

In terms of productivity value, Core i5-12600K offers excellent performance per dollar, achieving 76.5% efficiency relative to the best possible CPU in the application performance-per-price category. It is an excellent choice for cost-effective computing.

Gaming Performance

Core i5-12600K is an entry-level gaming CPU, achieving a relative gaming performance score at 1080p resolution of 69.12% compared to the best possible desktop CPU gaming performance. While gaming performance is limited when paired with top-tier graphics cards, such pairings are uncommon in this category. When combined with an appropriate entry-level GPU, this CPU does not cause significant performance loss, as the GPU generally becomes the primary limiting factor.

The gaming performance-per-price ratio of Core i5-12600K is 69.1%. This places it in the mid-value category, making it suitable for average gaming builds aiming to strike a good balance between performance and cost.