They are closely matched: Intel Core i5 12490F scores 49/100 and Intel Core i5 12600HX scores 47/100 in our overall comparison — within 2 points. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.
Intel Core i5 12490F vs Intel Core i5 12600HX
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Intel Core i5 12600HX leads Intel Core i5 12490F overall by 9 points (58 vs 49 out of 100).
- Intel Core i5 12600HX stands out on Core Specifications Cores: 12, Core Specifications Threads: 16, Core Specifications Maximum Power Consumption: 157 W.
Intel Core i5 12600HX leads overall
Intel Core i5 12600HX
58
Intel Core i5 12490F
49
Why it stands out
- Core Specifications Cores: 12
- Core Specifications Threads: 16
- Core Specifications Maximum Power Consumption: 157 W
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Intel Core i5 12490F
The i5-12490F is a mid-range CPU belonging to Intel's 12th generation family (Alder Lake). Its 'F' designation means it does not include integrated graphics, requiring the user to use a dedicated GPU. It is designed for users needing reliable performance in general computing tasks and specific applications where graphical output is handled separately.
Best for WorkstationsBest for ProductivityBest for Dedicated GPU builds
Pros
- Utilizes the advanced Alder Lake architecture, ensuring efficiency and modern instruction support.
- Positions it as a capable mid-tier processor ideal for demanding non-gaming productivity workloads.
- The overall design provides a strong balance of multi-core performance suitable for multitasking.
Cons
- Lacks integrated graphics (the 'F' designation), making a separate video card mandatory for operation.
- The architecture, while modernizing the Core line, is positioned lower than higher-end i7 or i9 models.
Intel Core i5 12600HX
This is a high-performance mobile processor designed for demanding computing tasks. It belongs to Intel's 12th generation family and offers architectural improvements tailored for professional or enthusiast users. Due to its designation, it is optimized for laptops requiring substantial processing power.
Best for Content CreationBest for Power UsersBest for Advanced Gaming
Pros
- Uses the Alder Lake architecture, which improves core efficiency compared to earlier generations.
- The HX series denotes an Extreme Performance Mobile Processor class suitable for heavy workloads.
- Combines physical high-performance (P) cores and efficient (E) cores for optimized task handling.
Cons
- As a mobile unit, its maximum performance is limited by the power envelope of the host laptop.
- The architecture utilizes multiple core types which requires careful system balance for efficiency.
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Intel Core i5 12490F
Intel Core i5 12600HX
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Intel Core i5 12490F20,766
Intel Core i5 12600HX24,128
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Intel Core i5 12490F vs Intel Core i5 12600HX comparison
Intel Core i5 12490F and Intel Core i5 12600HX are compared side by side above across every spec in the cpus category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 49/100 for Intel Core i5 12490F and 47/100 for Intel Core i5 12600HX.
It's close — Intel Core i5 12490F (49/100) and Intel Core i5 12600HX (47/100) score almost the same. Pick based on price and the individual specs that matter most to you; the comparison above shows where each one pulls ahead.
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