Intel Core i5-12600K vs Intel Core i7-11700K: What is the difference?
69points
Intel Core i5-12600K
57points
Intel Core i7-11700K
€262
€322
i5-12600KF
Comparison winner
€262
i7-11700KF
€322
vs
61 facts in comparison
Intel Core i5-12600K
Intel Core i7-11700K
Why is Intel Core i5-12600K better than Intel Core i7-11700K?
- 15.97% faster CPU speed?
6 x 3.7GHz & 4 x 2.8GHzvs8 x 3.6GHz - 1600MHz higher ram speed?
4800MHzvs3200MHz - 4nm smaller semiconductor size?
10nmvs14nm - 7.5MB bigger L2 cache?
9.5MBvs2MB - 12.79% higher PassMark result?
27814vs24661 - 4MB bigger L3 cache?
20MBvs16MB - 1 newer version of PCI Express (PCIe)?
5vs4 - 26.
8GB/s more memory bandwidth?
76.8GB/svs50GB/s
Why is Intel Core i7-11700K better than Intel Core i5-12600K?
- 50MHz faster GPU clock speed?
350MHzvs300MHz - 0.9 newer version of OpenCL?
3vs2.1
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
Intel Core i7-11700
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
AMD Ryzen 7 5700G
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
Intel Core i7-10700K
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
AMD Ryzen 7 5800X
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
AMD Ryzen 5 5600G
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
Intel Core i7-12700K
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
Intel Core i9-11900K
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
AMD Ryzen 7 5700X
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
Intel Core i9-10900K
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
Intel Core i5-13600K
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
Intel Core i7-10700K
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
AMD Ryzen 5 7600X
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
Intel Core i7-11700
Intel Core i5-12600K
vs
Apple M2
Intel Core i7-11700K
vs
Intel Core i5-12500
Price comparison
Intel Core i5-12600K
Buy used:
€195
| Product | Store | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
Intel Core i5-12600K Processor 20 MB Sma. ..Intel Core i5-12600K Processor 20 MB Smart Cache Box |
€262 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K 12. Generation Desk…Intel Core i5-12600K 12. Generation Desktop Prozessor (Schwarz, Basistakt: 3.7GHz Turboboost: 4.9GHz, 6 Kerne, LGA1700, RAM DDR4 und DDR5 bis zu 128GB) BX8071512600K | €264 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4….Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4.90GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8071512600K) | €240 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4….Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4.90GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8071512600K) | €245 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4….Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4.90GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8071512600K) | €245 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4….Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4.90GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8071512600K) | €245 | ||
Intel Core i7-11700K
Buy used:
€268
| Product | Store | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i7-11700K | €322 | ||
Intel Core i7-11700K 11. Generation Desk…Intel Core i7-11700K 11. Generation Desktop Prozessor (Basistakt: 3.6GHz Tuboboost: 4.9GHz, 8 Kerne, LGA1200) BX8070811700K |
€298 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K Processor 3.6 GHz 1…Intel Core i7-11700K Processor 3.6 GHz 16 MB Smart Cache Box | €334 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00G…Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8070811700K) | €296 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00G…Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8070811700K) | €298 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00G…Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8070811700K) | €298 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00G…Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8070811700K) | €298 | ||
User reviews
Overall rating
Intel Core i5-12600K
4 User reviews
Intel Core i5-12600K
9.
5/10
4 User reviews
Intel Core i7-11700K
0 User reviews
Intel Core i7-11700K
0.0/10
0 User reviews
Features
Value for money
8.5/10
4 votes
No reviews yet
Gaming
9.5/10
4 votes
No reviews yet
Performance
9.5/10
4 votes
No reviews yet
Reliability
8.8/10
4 votes
No reviews yet
Energy efficiency
6.5/10
4 votes
No reviews yet
Performance
CPU speed
6 x 3.7GHz & 4 x 2.8GHz
8 x 3.6GHz
The CPU speed indicates how many processing cycles per second can be executed by a CPU, considering all of its cores (processing units). It is calculated by adding the clock rates of each core or, in the case of multi-core processors employing different microarchitectures, of each group of cores.
CPU threads
More threads result in faster performance and better multitasking.
turbo clock speed
4.9GHz
When the CPU is running below its limitations, it can boost to a higher clock speed in order to give increased performance.
Has an unlocked multiplier
✔Intel Core i5-12600K
✔Intel Core i7-11700K
Some processors come with an unlocked multiplier which makes them easy to overclock, allowing you to gain increased performance in games and other apps.
L2 cache
A larger L2 cache results in faster CPU and system-wide performance.
L3 cache
A larger L3 cache results in faster CPU and system-wide performance.
L1 cache
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
A larger L1 cache results in faster CPU and system-wide performance.
L2 core
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
0.25MB/core
More data can be stored in the L2 cache for access by each core of the CPU.
L3 core
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
2MB/core
More data can be stored in the L3 cache for access by each core of the CPU.
Benchmarks
PassMark result
This benchmark measures the performance of the CPU using multiple threads.
PassMark result (single)
This benchmark measures the performance of the CPU using a single thread.
Cinebench R20 (multi) result
Cinebench R20 is a benchmark tool that measures a CPU’s multi-core performance by rendering a 3D scene.
Cinebench R20 (single) result
Cinebench R20 is a benchmark tool that measures a CPU’s single-core performance by rendering a 3D scene.
Geekbench 5 result (multi)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
Geekbench 5 is a cross-platform benchmark that measures a processor’s multi-core performance. (Source: Primate Labs, 2023)
Geekbench 5 result (single)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
Geekbench 5 is a cross-platform benchmark that measures a processor’s single-core performance.
(Source: Primate Labs, 2023)
Blender (bmw27) result
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
The Blender (bmw27) benchmark measures the performance of a processor by rendering a 3D scene. More powerful processors can render the scene in less time.
Blender (classroom) result
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
The Blender (classroom) benchmark measures the performance of a processor by rendering a 3D scene. More powerful processors can render the scene in less time.
performance per watt
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
This means the CPU is more efficient, giving a greater amount of performance for each watt of power used.
Integrated graphics
GPU clock speed
300MHz
350MHz
The graphics processing unit (GPU) has a higher clock speed.
GPU turbo
1450MHz
1300MHz
When the GPU is running below its limitations, it can boost to a higher clock speed in order to give increased performance.
GPU execution units
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
A graphics processing unit (GPU) with a greater number of execution units can deliver better graphics.
supported displays
Using multiple displays you can create a larger workspace, making it easier to work across multiple apps.
DirectX version
DirectX is used in games, with newer versions supporting better graphics.
OpenGL version
OpenGL is used in games, with newer versions supporting better graphics.
OpenCL version
Some apps use OpenCL to apply the power of the graphics processing unit (GPU) for non-graphical computing. Newer versions introduce more functionality and better performance.
texture mapping units (TMUs)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown.
Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
TMUs take textures and map them to the geometry of a 3D scene. More TMUs will typically mean that texture information is processed faster.
render output units (ROPs)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
The ROPs are responsible for some of the final steps of the rendering process, writing the final pixel data to memory and carrying out other tasks such as anti-aliasing to improve the look of graphics.
Memory
RAM speed
4800MHz
3200MHz
It can support faster memory, which will give quicker system performance.
maximum memory bandwidth
76.8GB/s
50GB/s
This is the maximum rate that data can be read from or stored into memory.
DDR memory version
DDR (Double Data Rate) memory is the most common type of RAM. Newer versions of DDR memory support higher maximum speeds and are more energy-efficient.
memory channels
More memory channels increases the speed of data transfer between the memory and the CPU.
maximum memory amount
The maximum amount of memory (RAM) supported.
bus transfer rate
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
The bus is responsible for transferring data between different components of a computer or device.
Supports ECC memory
✖Intel Core i5-12600K
✖Intel Core i7-11700K
Error-correcting code memory can detect and correct data corruption. It is used when is it essential to avoid corruption, such as scientific computing or when running a server.
eMMC version
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
A higher version of eMMC allows faster memory interfaces, having a positive effect on the performance of a device. For example, when transferring files from your computer to the internal storage over USB.
bus speed
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
The bus is responsible for transferring data between different components of a computer or device.
Features
instruction sets
SSE 4.2, SSE 4.1, AVX, AES, FMA3, F16C, MMX
SSE 4.2, SSE 4.1, AVX, AES, FMA3, F16C, MMX
Instruction sets are sets of codes that the CPU runs for certain functions.
uses multithreading
✔Intel Core i5-12600K
✔Intel Core i7-11700K
Multithreading technology (such as Intel’s Hyperthreading or AMD’s Simultaneous Multithreading) provides increased performance by splitting each of the processor’s physical cores into virtual cores, also known as threads. This way, each core can run two instruction streams at once.
bits executed at a time
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
NEON provides acceleration for media processing, such as listening to MP3s.
Has TrustZone
✖Intel Core i5-12600K
✖Intel Core i7-11700K
A technology integrated into the processor to secure the device for use with features such as mobile payments and streaming video using digital rights management (DRM).
front-end width
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
The CPU can decode more instructions per clock (IPC), meaning that the CPU performs better
Has NX bit
✔Intel Core i5-12600K
✔Intel Core i7-11700K
NX bit helps protect the computer from malicious attacks.
VFP version
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-12600K)
Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i7-11700K)
Vector Floating-Point (VFP) is used by the processor to deliver increased performance in areas such as digital imaging.
Miscellaneous
Has AES
✔Intel Core i5-12600K
✔Intel Core i7-11700K
AES is used to speed up encryption and decryption.
Price comparison
Intel Core i5-12600K
Buy used:
€195
| Product | Store | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i5-12600K Processor 20 MB Sma…Intel Core i5-12600K Processor 20 MB Smart Cache Box | €262 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K 12. Generation Desk…Intel Core i5-12600K 12. Generation Desktop Prozessor (Schwarz, Basistakt: 3.7GHz Turboboost: 4.9GHz, 6 Kerne, LGA1700, RAM DDR4 und DDR5 bis zu 128GB) BX8071512600K | €264 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4….Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4.90GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8071512600K) | €240 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4….Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4.90GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8071512600K) | €245 | ||
Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4….Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3. 70-4.90GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8071512600K) |
€245 | ||
| Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4….Intel Core i5-12600K, 6C+4c/16T, 3.70-4.90GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8071512600K) | €245 | ||
Intel Core i7-11700K
Buy used:
€268
| Product | Store | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Intel Core i7-11700K | €322 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K 11. Generation Desk…Intel Core i7-11700K 11. Generation Desktop Prozessor (Basistakt: 3.6GHz Tuboboost: 4.9GHz, 8 Kerne, LGA1200) BX8070811700K | €298 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K Processor 3.6 GHz 1…Intel Core i7-11700K Processor 3.6 GHz 16 MB Smart Cache Box | €334 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00G…Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8070811700K) | €296 | ||
Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3. 60-5.00G…Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8070811700K) |
€298 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00G…Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8070811700K) | €298 | ||
| Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00G…Intel Core i7-11700K, 8C/16T, 3.60-5.00GHz, boxed ohne Kühler (BX8070811700K) | €298 | ||
i7-11700K Vs i5-12600K [7 Games Tested]
When talking about processors, Intel’s newer processors are always in the limelight. Of course, AMD processors are not far behind, but popular choices still align with Intel products. Along with Intel’s latest 13th gen processors, it’s the perfect time to look into multiple older products. Therefore, the current article compares the Intel Core i7-11700K Vs i5-12600K processors. Even though both processors are generations old, they are not obsolete in terms of performance.
Before we move on to the specifications, let’s glance at the 11th and 12th gen architectures!
Key Takeaways
- The Intel Core i7-11700K is one of the higher-end processors for Intel’s Rocket Lake. On the other hand, the Intel Core i5-12600K is one of the mid-range processors for Intel’s Alder Lake.
- There is only a minimal difference in gaming performance between both processors.
- Looking at the MSRP prices, the Intel Core i7-11700K is ~38.06% more expensive than the Intel Core i5-12600K.
- The Intel Core i5-12600K has four extra cores than the Intel Core i7-11700K, allowing for better performance.
- The Intel Core i5-12600K can be operated as two PCs in one due to its hybrid core architecture, utilizing P and E cores.
Intel 11th Vs 12th Gen Architecture
Knowing the architectural differences of processors is an important part of choosing which processor you should buy.
For example, a consumer wouldn’t necessarily buy a 12th gen processor if they don’t want to take advantage of the hybrid architecture and DDR5 RAM. We have a complete guide on 11th gen vs 12th gen to know everything in-depth.
Rocket Lake — Intel 11th Gen Architecture
“Rocket Lake” is the codename designated for Intel’s 11th gen processors. As such, following the tick-tock model that Intel follows for its generational developments, Rocket Lake is based on the “tock” model. To explain, the “tick” model envelops a new architecture with innovative improvements. On the other hand, the “tock” model represents minor adjustments within the previous architecture to improve performance.
So, if you’re on a 10th gen Intel processor, buying a 12th gen or 13th gen Intel processor will yield higher performance gains. However, the 11th gen processors still fare well on the battleground of raw performance.
Intel 500 Series Chipset
Intel 500 series chipset summary.
Since the Intel 500 series chipset is based on the LGA 1200, it supports both Intel 10th and 11th series processors. Furthermore, we see four chipsets, the Z590, H570, B560, and H510. Alongside compatibility with the Intel 400 series chipset, the Intel 10th and 11th series processors have a plethora of compatible motherboards.
Firstly, the new Intel 500 series chipset brings greater USB 3.2 connectivity, WiFi 6E, and Thunderbolt 4. Also, with the 500 series chipset motherboards, consumers can overclock their memory using the B560 and H570 chipsets. In the past, however, only the “Z” chipsets could overclock the memory.
To conclude, a few other innovations include x8 DMI Gen 3.0 for double the bandwidth between the processor and chipset and 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes. Because of the Intel 500 series chipset, we see greater merits within the 11th gen processors.
Also Read: Z590 Vs B560
WiFi 6E
As discussed before, the Intel 11th gen processors come packed with compatibility for WiFi 6E.
In brief, the latest advancement after WiFi 5, WiFi 6E, allows for a 1,200 MHz spectrum which lets multiple users connect within a small radius. Moreover, the WiFi 6E speeds up to 1 Gigabyte per second. So, users have nothing to worry about regarding ethernet connectivity and speed.
However, WiFi 6E has a shorter range than its predecessors, WiFi 5E and WiFi 2.4. Also, because the technology isn’t widely popular, only high-end Z590 motherboards come with integrated WiFi 6E. Therefore, if you wish to utilize the technology with an 11th gen Intel processor, ensure the motherboard has integrated WiFi 6E. Although, you can buy an adapter to use the technology on compatible motherboards too.
Also Read: Core i5-13600k vs i5-12600k
Lithography
While Intel had the means to do so, it limited the 11th gen processors to a 14nm lithography. On the other hand, Intel 10th gen laptop processors utilize a 10nm process node, making their decision difficult to understand.
However, a possible reason for Intel’s decision to keep using the 14nm process node could be due to compatibility issues. The process node was left unchanged to keep the 11th gen processors compatible with the 400 series chipset. Additionally, introducing the 500 series chipset allows for greater options for consumers with various budget spectrums. So, undeniably, Intel’s 11th gen processors utilize the LGA 1200 socket.
Nonetheless, not changing the process node for its 11th gen processors, Intel lost miserably against AMD’s 5000 series processors in terms of thermal efficiency.
Also Read: LGA 1200 Vs LGA 1700
Alder Lake — Intel 12th Gen Architecture
Going towards Intel’s 12th gen architecture, we have the codenamed “Alder Lake” at stakes. While Rocket Lake is based on small adjustments from Intel’s Ice Lake, Alder Lake envelops the “tick” model. So, if you want to utilize a new architecture, you might want to upgrade to Intel’s 12th gen processors.
However, we shall later find out whether upgrading from 11th gen to 12th gen will provide you with better performance. Specifically, the Intel Core i7-11700K Vs i5-12600K processors. Also, whether the Intel Core i5-12600K offers better performance per dollar value than its competitor stands as a mystery.
Hybrid Core Architecture
By far, the biggest innovation in Intel’s 12th gen processors is the implementation of the hybrid core architecture. Inspired by ARM’s big.LITTLE technology, Intel’s 12th, and 13th gen processors utilize two types of cores; the Performance (P) and Efficiency (E) cores.
To explain, there are two different cores within the same processor chip, unlike the traditional core chipset design. The P-cores are the bigger, main cores that handle stressful tasks. On the other hand, E-cores are smaller cores responsible for handling background tasks, reducing stress for the P-cores.
Furthermore, to better utilize the properties of both cores, Intel has collaborated with Microsoft to integrate better windows scheduling in Windows 11.
So, if you upgrade to Intel’s 12th gen processors, we suggest upgrading to Windows 11 for better performance. Although, you’ll barely find a 1-2% performance increment in games.
Moreover, each P-core has two threads per core, while each E-core has one thread per core. Therefore, we see an unconventional number of threads and cores with these 12th and 13th gen processors. Also, you can have two computers in one by using the P and E-cores separately. Although it requires a few added optimizations, you can make the E-cores utilize Intel’s iGPU while the P-cores utilize the discrete graphics card.
DDR5 RAM Support
Sample Sabrent Rocket DDR5 – Image Credits: Tech5Gamers.
While DDR5 RAM has become more familiar, Intel’s 12th gen took the lead by being the first to offer compatibility. Not only does DDR5 RAM offer greater capacity per module, but it also offers higher speeds and better voltage regulation.
However, at the time of release, due to the pandemic, prices made most DDR5 RAM kits unaffordable for the masses.
For that reason, it took more time for the technology to be adopted by more consumers.
While DDR5 RAM showcases amazing improvements on paper, the performance increase is almost negligible in a realistic environment. Although, you will find greater improvements in productive tasks due to the greater amount of RAM installed in the PC.
Moreover, Intel’s 12th gen processors are compatible with both DDR4 and DDR5 RAM, so you can choose whichever you want. On the other hand, with AMD’s latest Ryzen 7000 series processors, we only see compatibility for DDR5 RAM, making consumers reluctant to upgrade.
Also Read: Ryzen 5 7600X Vs Intel i5-12600K
PCIe 5.0
PCIe lanes power a computer’s SSDs and graphics cards. Thus, lanes with higher bandwidth and transfer speeds are loved by most consumers. However, even the best RTX 3090 graphics cards don’t require PCIe 5.0, as PCIe 4.0 offers enough transfer speeds. Even so, we see that Intel’s 12th gen processors were the first to be compatible with PCIe 5.
0 technology.
Now, while PCIe 5.0 won’t increase the performance of graphics cards, the technology will prove useful for incredible data transfers. To explain, PCIe 5.0 offers a bandwidth of 64 GB/s and a transfer speed of up to 32 GT/s. So, greater transfer speeds are beneficial for SSDs. As such, many companies have started producing PCIe 5.0 compatible storage devices, which improves the overall PC speeds.
Intel Core i7-11700K Vs 12600K -Specifications
After looking at the architectural differences between both processors, we must compare their on-paper specifications. Doing so makes it easier to compare both processors’ overall performance and the performance per dollar ratios.
| CPU Name | Intel Core i7-11700K | Intel Core i5-12600K |
| Product Line | Intel i7 series | Intel i5 series |
| Product Generation | Intel 11th generation | Intel 12th generation |
| Core Architecture | Rocket Lake-S Architecture | Hybrid Core Architecture |
| Processing Node | 14nm | 10nm |
| Socket | LGA 1200 | LGA 1700 |
| Motherboard Chipset Support | Z590, H570, B560, H510, Z490, h570, B460, h510 | Z690, H670, B660, H610, Z790 |
| Number of Cores | 8 | 6P, 4E = 10 |
| Number of threads | 16 | 12P, 4E = 16 |
| L2 Cache | 4 MB | 9. 5 MB |
| L3 Cache | 16 MB | 20 MB |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.6 GHz | 3.70 GHz for P-cores, 2.80 GHz for E-cores |
| Boost Clock Speed | 5.0 GHz | 4.9 GHz for P-cores, 3.6 GHz for E-cores |
| Power Draw | 125W | 125W |
| Integrated Graphics | UHD Graphics 750 | UHD Graphics 770 |
| Memory Support | DDR4 up to 3200 MHz | DDR4 up to 3200 MHz, DDR5 up to 4800 MHz |
| PCIe Support | PCIe 4.0 | PCIe 4.0, PCIe 5.0 |
| Launch Price | $399 | $289 |
| Current Price | $320 | $248 |
| Launch Date | March 16, 2021 | November 4, 2021 |
| Best Motherboards | Motherboards for i5-12600K | |
| Best Coolers | CPU Coolers for Core i5-12600K |
The above table shows a distinctive difference between the Intel Core i7-11700K and the Intel Core i5-12600K processors.
For example, starting from the process node, we see that the Alder Lake processor has a huge advantage in lithography.
Furthermore, we see greater cores for the Intel Core i5-12600K and compatibility with PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 RAM. However, both processors showcase the same power draw. Lastly, the Intel Core i7-11700K is ~29% more expensive than its competitor. So, the Rocket Lake processor must have a 29% greater performance to stand a chance against its Alder Lake rival.
More Comparisons: Core i7-12700K vs. Core i5-12600K
Gaming Benchmarks
When comparing two pieces of hardware, we must conduct practical tests to determine which is better. Through these tests, we can figure out the faster component and the component with the better performance per dollar ratio. For that reason, Hardware Test has conducted the gaming benchmarks for the Intel Core i7-11700K Vs i5-12600K processors.
Testing Rig
- Motherboard: Z590 & Z690
- Graphics Card: RTX 3080 10 GB
- RAM: 32 GB DDR4
- Processor: Intel Core i5-12600K & Intel Core i7-11700K
Looking at the specifications of the testing rig, while we don’t know the exact model of most components, we have a general idea of the PC.
For example, the Z590 is utilized for the Intel Core i7-11700K, and the Z690 chipset for the Intel Core i5-12600K.
While the Intel Core i5-12600K can use the Z790 motherboard, it was yet to release when the benchmarks were uploaded. So, both processors use the best chipset available in the market. Although we’re unsure of the exact model of both motherboards, we can expect them to be of high quality.
Furthermore, the RAM neatly complements the processors and the chipset. With a 32 GB DDR4 RAM kit, the testing rig will have no problems running even the heaviest applications. So, even if we don’t know the exact model of the RAM and its constituents, we can rest assured it will not interfere with the tests.
Moreover, we have the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 graphics card backing both processors. Because of the graphics card’s power, we will not see any GPU bottlenecking.
On the other hand, we may see CPU bottlenecks due to the processors not being on par. But only the actual tests will tell us which component is bottlenecking and by how much.
Lastly, all the components complement each other and ensure they’re not bottlenecking. However, due to not knowing the exact components, we cannot be sure of any performance issues that may come up. Now, without further ado, let’s look at all the games that have been tested!
God Of War
Testing God of War at ultra settings on a 1080P resolution.
- The Intel Core i7-11700K averages 155 FPS, while the Intel Core i5-12600K averages 161 FPS.
- The Intel Core i5-12600K processor showcases a ~3.87% FPS increase than its rival, the Intel Core i7-11700K.
- Even though the Intel Core i7-11700K is ~29% more expensive, it is ~3.87% slower than the Intel Core i5-12600K in God of War.
Cyberpunk 2077
Cyberpunk 2077 FPS benchmark test
- The Intel Core i5-12600K averages 146 FPS. On the other hand, the Intel Core i7-11700K averages 140 FPS.
- The Intel Core i5-12600K is ~4.28% faster than the Intel Core i7-11700K, increasing the gap between both processors.
- While the difference in performance isn’t too high because the Intel Core i5-12600K costs less, its value keeps increasing.
Hitman 3
Hitman 3 benchmarks at 1080P resolution.
- The Intel Core i7-11700K averages 190 FPS, while the Intel Core i5-12600K averages 188 FPS.
- Unlike the other benchmarks, the Intel Core i7-11700K has ~1.06% higher FPS than its competitor.
- While the Intel Core i7-11700K is faster, a meagre ~1.06% difference is nothing compared with the ~29% greater price.
Microsoft Flight Simulator
Microsoft Flight Simulator benchmark test for Intel processors.
- The FPS gap widens with the Intel Core i5-12600K averaging 104 FPS, while the Intel Core i7-11700K averages 98 FPS.
- To calculate, the Intel Core i5-12600K is ~6.12% faster than the Intel Core i7-11700K in Microsoft Flight Simulator.
Call of Duty: Warzone
FPS benchmark test in Call of Duty: Warzone
- The Intel Core i7-11700K takes the lead by averaging 183 FPS, while the Intel Core i5-12600K averages 179 FPS.
- The Intel Core i7-11700K is ~2.23% faster than the Intel Core i5-12600K in Call of Duty: Warzone.
Also Read: i5-12600k vs i9-9900k
Red Dead Redemption 2
Red Dead Redemption 2 performance benchmark at 1080P resolution.
- The Intel Core i5-12600K takes back its advantage by averaging 148 FPS, while the Intel Core i7-11700K averages 146 FPS.
- Although a negligible increment, the Intel Core i5-12600K is ~1.36% faster than the Intel Core i7-11700K.
Witcher 3
The Witcher 3 benchmarks at 1080P resolution with ultra settings.
- The Intel Core i5-12600K increases its dominance with 215 FPS, whereas the Intel Core i7-11700K averages 201 FPS.
- In The Witcher 3, the Intel Core i5-12600K is ~6.96% faster than the Intel Core i7-11700K.
- Even though the Intel Core i7-11700K costs ~29% more, its performance is not on par with its competitor, let alone greater.
Also Check: Intel i7-12700K vs Intel i7-11700K
Benchmarks Verdict For Intel Core i7-11700K Vs i5-12600K
After looking at all the gaming benchmarks, it’s time to decide on the verdict for which processor is better. Above all, the Intel Core i5-12600K processor is less expensive and fares on par with its competitor.
Along with the architectural improvements that the Intel Core i5-12600K comes with, its strengths keep building.
Furthermore, looking at the overall average FPS attained by both processors, there is only a slight gap in performance. To explain, the Intel Core i7-11700K averages 1,113 FPS, whereas the Intel Core i5-12600K averages 1,141 FPS. So, the Intel Core i5-12600K is ~2.51% faster than the Intel Core i7-11700K.
Moreover, looking at the prices, the Intel Core i7-11700K is ~29% more expensive than the Intel Core i5-12600K. Even so, the latter manages a slight lead, making it the faster processor. For that reason, the Intel Core i5-12600K has better performance per dollar whilst also having higher performance.
Therefore, if you’re looking to upgrade between the Intel Core i7-11700K and the Intel Core i5-12600K, we recommend going with the latter.
Faster performance and lower price is the best-case scenario for any component. However, that does not mean that the Intel Core i7-11700K is a bad processor. Rather, both processors have their ups and downs, as seen in the benchmarks.
Who Is This Article For?
By all means, the Intel Core i7-11700K Vs i5-12600K article is for consumers looking for an upgrade. With the insurgence of the Intel 13th-gen processors, prices have significantly dropped for the lower-gen processors. However, most of these processors still hold great performance per dollar value. For that reason, we’re covering the following article.
In any case, we first discussed the difference in the architectures of both processors and how the Intel Core i5-12600K offers more dynamic possibilities. For example, for the Intel 11th generation series processors, we looked into the Intel 500 series chipset, the latest WiFi 6E adaptation and the lithography. Moreover, for the Intel 12th generation series processors, we analyzed the hybrid core architecture, DDR5 RAM and PCIe 5.