When AMD announced their release of the 5000 series processors, it was obvious they were going to take over as Intel had nothing planned in-store. It didn’t take long before consumers were beginning to sell off anything they had from Intel and purchase the newest AMD processors. Even though some people thought this was too soon, it was clear that there would be no stopping these new challengers from beating out Intel’s dated models.
What’s new in Intel 12th Generation Alder Lake
When AMD launched their new 5000 series processors, it was an end to Intel as those processors were leaps and bounds ahead of Intel’s equivalent at the time. Naturally, it seemed like there was no competition left for Intel to rely on anymore – until they released their Alder Lake processor lineup just three months later. Let me introduce you first before we go into detail about this now historic event: a little background information can’t hurt when making such big decisions.
On the one hand, while Gracemont cores are optimized for high thread counts, E-cores are configured to take on large data sets and spreadsheets. For example, if you’re running a complicated program with many different datasets that all need to be processed at once – then an E-core would work best for you. In addition, this core will allow you to run two or more programs simultaneously without overheating.
Alder Lake teamed up with Intel to develop the enhanced Intel 7 (ESF10) superfine process, which uses unique equipment from Alder Lake such as Intel Thread Director. This includes a specialized task scheduler working directly in every CPU core for more efficient operation. With this feature being natively built into Windows 11, programs are able to use these resources much easier – making sure that P-cores and E-cores always work together intelligently to ensure optimized performance all around.
Alder Lake teamed up with Intel to develop the enhanced Intel 7 (ESF10) superfine process, which uses unique equipment from Alder Lake such as Intel Thread Director. This includes a specialized task scheduler working directly in every CPU core for more efficient operation. With this feature being natively built into Windows 11, programs are able to use these resources much easier – making sure that P-cores and E-cores always work together intelligently to ensure optimized performance all around.
Intel 12th Generation Alder Lake Specs Overview
- Socket: LGA 1700
- Architecture Type: Hybrid
- Instruction Set: x86-64
- CPU Cores Info: Combination of Golden Cove P-cores and Gracemont E-Cores.
- RAM Support: DDR4 and DDR5
- PCIe Support: PCIe 5.0
- Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6E
- I/O: Thunderbolt 4 support.
- Support for noise suppression, auto-framing, and bandwidth enhancement.
Difference between Intel Core i7 and Intel Core i9
You know, before I delve into the topic of which CPU to buy between i9-12900k vs i7-12700k, there is some background information that you need to know first. Processors basically consist of a bunch of little brains called cores. A lot of these cores exist in CPUs too; basically, every chip has many processors or ‘threads’. These threads send out instructions like assembling bricks for example. In other words, all the cores cooperate together, and sometimes they can even break down tasks among themselves – doing all these without any effort!
The Intel Core series is an efficient line of processors made in 2006 by the Intel Corporation. It starts off with the Pentium series and has now branched out to include Core i3, Core i7, and Core i9.
Intel Core i7
Core i7 processors were introduced by Intel Corporation in 2008, able to hold up to 8 cores at once. These are some of the most powerful processors you can find from their range named Core I, with the addition of new releases such as Core i9 for even higher performance.
Back in its heyday, you can only find Intel’s i7s powering high-end PCs. They were popular because of how well they scaled for both high-end games and content creation needs – it was an obvious choice for people who wanted good performance at any tier.
Intel Core i7 has an awesome feature called hyperthreading. With this, they can give each core two processing threads so you can feel like you’re using double the cores without actually doing anything different at all! Intel Core i7 also has multi-threading capabilities so you can do multiple things at once without having to worry about how much space it takes up on your CPU or how much power it needs. And if you’re trying to maximize performance when playing games – you’ll want to check out their turbo boost technology!
Intel Core i9
This new technology from Intel Corporation promises amazing processing power at hyper speed. The Core i9 line is equipped with state-of-the-art processors made using 14nm technology and offers an incredible number of cores for its size. With support for up to 128GB of DRAMs in quad-channel configurations and 44 PCIe lanes, it’s perfect for gamers, graphics artists, or anyone who likes to work long hours on their computer without interruption!
These CPUs are extraordinary! With 6 to 18 cores per CPU and two threads per core, if you have Hyperthreading enabled, these CPUs come with a variety of speeds – all the way up to 5.0 GHz! Core i9 features hyperthreading, which is an advanced technique for doubling the number of threads your CPU can handle. This creates an immense amount of potential processing power that’s perfect for anyone looking to do heavy computing tasks – including gamers!
Intel i9 Processors are unlocked CPUs which allow for overclocking. Overclocking is the process of increasing the speed of your CPU so that it can do things faster than it was originally intended to do. This helps compute tasks and other processes go through more quickly while generating more heat as a result, but also making sure you’re receiving optimal performance from your Intel chips!
Intel Core i9 CPUs now come equipped with Intel Optane Memory. This cutting-edge technology intelligently analyzes your computer usage patterns, then identifies and retrieves the files you need before you even ask – this means less waiting time! It also makes loading times faster so you can work smoother than ever before.
Core i9-12900k vs Core i7-12700k
It has been a long war between AMD and Intel, which began with the latest innovations in the processor marketplace: high-speed processing. Every time one company would take over, it would be undermined by the other one when it launched its newest products (especially PCs). AMD reigned superior until they released their 6000 CPUs; however, Intel caught up thanks to their 12th generation’s strong advances in multitasking and gaming performance.
Architecture
If you’re looking for an affordable processor, don’t hesitate to take a look at the Intel Alder Lake-S Series. These CPUs are great for anyone who wants something powerful without breaking the bank.
CPU Specifications
Intel Core i9-12900k has a total of 16 cores with 8 P-cores (Performance Cores) and 4 E-cores (Efficient Cores). As for i7-12700k, it has a total of 12 cores. This means that the Intel Core i9-12900k has more Performance Cores than the latter but also has more efficient cores hence being called efficient. There are 20 threads on the Intel Core i7-12700k whereas there are 24 threads on the Intel Core i9 – 12900K; this would mean that there is an advantage when looking at core and thread count between these two processors.
Intel Core i9-12900k has a total of 16 cores with 8 P-cores (Performance Cores) and 4 E-cores (Efficient Cores). As for i7-12700k, it has a total of 12 cores. This means that the Intel Core i9-12900k has more Performance Cores than the latter but also has more efficient cores hence being called efficient. There are 20 threads on the Intel Core i7-12700k whereas there are 24 threads on the Intel Core i9 – 12900K; this would mean that there is an advantage when looking at core and thread count between these two processors.
If you need a new processor, but don’t want to sacrifice CPU power or graphics capability – then look no further than the Intel i7-12700k and the Intel i9-12900k. To start off with, both chips have 12MB L2 caches and 25MB L3 caches which make it easier for instructions to process quickly. Now, when we look at CPU cores – each chip has four cores so that means there are four physical cores in each; however if you’re looking for something more powerful – the Intel i9-12900k may be your best bet since it can operate up to six physical cores while running at maximum turbo power (241W). You’ll also find UHD Graphics 770 on both chips too with its base frequency at 300MHz.
Intel Core i7-12700k CPU Specs
This list of specs will help you understand what an i7-12700k is capable of doing at a glance. Look no further for the most helpful charts and graphs!
- Cores: 12
- Threads: 20
- Number of Performance Cores (P-cores): 8
- Number of Efficient Cores (E-cores): 4
- P-core Base Frequency: 3.60 GHz
- P-core Max Turbo Frequency: 4.90 GHz
- E-core Base Frequency: 2.70 GHz
- E-core Max Turbo Frequency: 3.80 GHz
- Max Turbo Frequency: 5.00 GHz
- Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 Frequency: 5.00 GHz
- L3-Cache: 25MB
- TDP: 125W
- Maximum Turbo Power: 190W
Intel Core i9-12900k CPU Specs
Below are some statistics on paper to provide better clarity and help you make a decision.
- Cores: 16
- Threads: 24
- Number of Performance Cores (P-cores): 8
- Number of Efficient Cores (E-cores): 8
- P-core Base Frequency: 3.20 GHz
- P-core Max Turbo Frequency: 5.10 GHz
- E-core Base Frequency: 2.40 GHz
- E-core Max Turbo Frequency: 3.90 GHz
- Max Turbo Frequency: 5.20 GHz
- Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 Frequency: 5.20 GHz
- L3-Cache: 30MB
- TDP: 125W
- Maximum Turbo Power: 241W
Price
When it comes to prices, there are some noticeable differences between the two processors. You’ll find that Intel Core i9-12900k started out at $589.99 but currently sells for anywhere from $610-$650. In contrast, while Intel Core i7-12700k also cost $409 when it first came out, you can now buy one for an average price of around $400-$450.
Memory Specifications and Expansion Options
Intel Core i7-12700k and Intel i9-12900k can support a maximum memory size of 128 GB. Depending on the type of memory installed, both processors are capable of transferring data at speeds up to 3200 MT/s (megatransfers per second) or 4800 MT/s respectively. The maximal bandwidth for these two processors is 76.8 GB/s each.
With the release of Intel’s latest 12th generation processors, there are some new changes made to the Z690 chipset and LGA 1700 socket. While it is unfortunate that older chipsets and motherboards will not work with these 12th gen CPU releases, they do offer improved performance; making up for the loss of compatibility.
The 12700k and 12900k are Intel Core Processors built to take advantage of new technologies such as PCIe 4.0 and 5.0, allowing for lightning-fast graphics speeds with compatible devices– even faster than before when using high-end hard drives or the high-end GPU cards you’ve invested in! You’ll never waste time waiting around again because these processors can transfer 64 GB of data per second which ensures nothing slows you down from completing whatever tasks you’re trying to do without delays!
AMD has released two processors with the ability to hold eight connections per die. As a result, this raises the number of lanes from four to eight and increases processor-to-chipset bandwidth up to 25 percent per second. The socket has been sized up too and this is crucial as most past cooler solutions would no longer suffice. It has also resulted in many producers coming out with upgrading kits that enable us to continue using their coolers on LGA 1700 motherboard sockets. Now, before we even go deeper into how these processors function let me just say – you NEED an awesome cooling solution or else it’ll throttle badly, thus decreasing performance drastically.
On a serious note, the performance of these CPUs will be based on what motherboard you use. Intel i7 and Intel i9 processors both need stable power input. DDR5 RAM technology is uncommon at this time so it’ll depend on the memory type for each motherboard and how well it performs your setup. Due to new technologies from a new chipset Z690, a new socket LGA 1700, and processor support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory types; motherboards are going to be relatively pricier because they’re newer tech than previous generations.
Choosing a new GPU for gaming could depend on many things like the design, VRM Efficiency, or even Wi-Fi. But there are a few considerations you need to make when picking out a new card. For instance, if you plan on overclocking or adding WiFi to your computer later down the line then you should choose one with those features already included because they could get really expensive otherwise.
Intel Core i7-12700k and Core i9-12900k Memory and Expansion Specs:
- Max Memory Size: 128 GB
- Memory Support: DDR4 and DDR5
- Memory Transfer Rates: DDR5-4800MT/s, DDR4-3200MT/s
- Number of Memory Channels: 2 (dual channel)
- DMI (Direct Media Interface) Version: 4.0
- Maximum Number of DMI Lanes: 8
- PCI Express Revision: 4.0 and 5.0
- PCI Express Configurations: Up to 1×16+4, 2×8+4
- Maximum Number of PCI Express Lanes: 20
Gaming Benchmarks
Intel Core i9-12900k and i7-12700k threaten the once confident line of AMD processors. But are they worth it? To find out, compare both lines’ performance in high demand situations such as gaming; where some surprisingly unsurprising results show up! The tester used an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 GPU, MSI MPG Z690 CARBON motherboard, and Corsair Dominator Platinum 4800 CL 36 (DDR4) RAM to measure FPS with data gathered from eight games on each line of CPU.
Test Rig:
- CPU: Intel Core i9-12900K, Intel Core i7-12700K
- Motherboard: MSI MPG Z690 CARBON
- GPU: MSI NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080
- RAM: Corsair Dominator Platinum 4800 CL 36 (DDR4)
- Storage: SSD Samsung EVO 970 500GB
- Power Supply: Super Flower Leadex Platinum 1000W
- OS: Windows 10
CS: GO
Benchmarking CS:GO on 1080p resolution, we got the following statistics from i7-12700k vs i9-12900k.
Our champion, i9-12900k, consumed 29% at 63°C temperature with an average of 645 FPS. Opposite of this, our runner up, i7-12700k only consumed 21% at 58°C Temperature and had an average of 629 FPS. We also found that while the i9 CPU was running at 5000 MHz clock speed (with a TDP of 93W), the i7 was running at 4700 MHz (with a TDP of 71.4W). What this means is that while the temperatures may be close – there are still 5 degrees Celsius in between them; which does make a difference!
Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 was benchmarked on 1080p resolution with high settings, and ray tracing turned off. Take a look at the graphs below.
After analyzing benchmarks for both processors, we’ve found some peculiarities. Firstly, we see that the Intel Core i9-12900k averages around 115 frames per second at an average processor load of 59%. In contrast, the Intel Core i7-12700k averages around 112 fps with a much lower processor load (around 61%). What this means is that while the two CPUs are fairly close in terms of performance but there are certain cases where it would be more advantageous to use one over the other; such as when you need high-frequency processing or a lower TDP.
Red Dead Redemption 2 (RDR2)
Such a captivating and immersive world to explore. It wouldn’t feel right not including Red Dead Redemption 2 in this benchmarks comparison of Intel i9-12900k vs Intel i7-12700k since it’s such an amazing game that really pushes the limits of what you can do on your CPU. In our tests, we played Red Dead Redemption 2 at 1080p high settings without experiencing any problems whatsoever – the graphics were absolutely stunning!
My CPU clock for the i9-12900k was 26% with an average of 145fps. On the other hand, my i7-12700k CPU at 36%, with lower frame rates at 56°C temperature resulted in 138fps. This whole situation made me wonder why? One theory suggested by Toms Hardware has to do with bottlenecks – a situation where there is either shortage or excess processing demands caused by lack of bandwidth or lack of system memory leading to wasted computing power or clogging of processing pipelines respectively; this would consequently result in inefficient allocation and excessive wastefulness which may possibly explain why this discrepancy occurred between these two CPUs.
Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (MSFS 2020)
Out of all the games that are out there to play on a computer, few can compete with the realism of Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. With this game, you have a chance to explore various landscapes from across the globe while sitting at your desk! And when we tested our contestants on this game, they didn’t disappoint. In fact, they did quite well – getting over 50 frames per second even with high settings. So if you’re looking for something intense and realistic – give it a try!
It looks like some people think Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 is not a demanding game! On an Intel Core i9-12900K at a 62 degrees Celsius temperature and with an average FPS of 167, we saw usage of 22%. On Intel Core i7-12700K at 53 degrees Celsius temperature and giving an average of 158 fps, we also saw CPU usage of 18%. We can see again that for these two CPUs on this game there isn’t much difference when it comes to performance. And if you look closely, the Intel Core i7-12700K has less power consumption, lower temperatures, and lower frequencies but still gives us almost similar performance as the Intel Core i9-12900K.
Benchmarking the Intel Core i9-12900k and i7-12700k CPUs, it is clear that the two processors offer nearly identical performance levels. The 12900K has an incredibly high power intake and quite a bit of heat as well but its extra cores/threads do perform slightly better than the 12700K which gives some added value to this processor. However, if you want similar performance without paying extra for overkill then one could go with the previous generation 12700K CPU instead since both CPUs perform similarly or maybe look at another brand entirely.
i9-12900k vs i7-12700k – Which One is Better?
Comparing the two 12th generation processors side by side proved to be challenging due to how similar they were in many aspects. Both CPUs were powerful, efficient, and had outstanding performance overall. With the disadvantage of needing a new chipset (Z690) and LGA 1700 socket, you would need a new motherboard as well. It would also be necessary to upgrade your cooling system due to older ones being incompatible with this setup – but don’t worry because we have created an easy guide to purchasing whichever CPU suits you best from here on out!
It is without question that the Intel Core i9-12900k is the most powerful CPU. To make sure everyone has access to this, Intel built it using all of the newest cutting-edge technologies and features currently available on the market today. However, it is primarily made for people who do heavy work such as video editing or 3D rendering. For those who want to future-proof themselves but don’t want to invest money in something they’ll never use; it could be worth looking into.
We would not recommend this CPU for gamers because there are less expensive options out there with nearly identical performance – so why waste your money? Another factor you may need to consider when purchasing this product is whether or not your motherboard supports it. You will not get full functionality out of this machine if your motherboard isn’t up to date with these standards.
As for Intel Core i7-12700k, it’s also a beast performer. It has the same gaming performance as its bigger brother, i9, with appealing power efficiency. IT performs exceptionally well within its hardware bounds with a little less core/thread count and less power utilization. The best part is that it beats all its AMD rivals, making it the go-to choice for gamers looking for a bang for the buck deal. In price/performance ratio, IT also beats the Ryzen 5800X and Ryzen 5900X chips.
With such a clear separation between the i7-12700k and the i9-12900k, it can be difficult to decide which processor is best for you. For gamers who only care about how well their PC performs when gaming, or simply want an upgrade in power from their previous system; then the higher-end chip maybe your best option. However, if what you care about is having exceptional rendering capabilities or even multitasking; go with a lower CPU because no one likes to wait around while every single other task takes twice as long as they expected.