Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus vs Intel Core i5 12600K

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus is the better pick — it scores 82/100 to the Intel Core i5 12600K's 42, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core i5 12600K instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus

Intel Core i5 12600K

Why it stands out

Core Specifications L1 Cache: 2,432 KB (181% more)
Core Specifications L2 Cache: 40 MB (321% more)
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 68,525 (149% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus vs Intel Core i5 12600K
Category	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus	Intel Core i5 12600K	Winner
Core Specifications	68	35	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	95	48	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus

The Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus is an unlocked desktop processor built on a 3nm lithography process for the LGA 1851 platform. It features 24 cores and 24 threads with a base clock frequency of 3.7 GHz and maximum boost speeds reaching up to 5.5 GHz. Designed for demanding desktop computing, it integrates Intel Graphics alongside a total of 76 MB of combined L2 and L3 cache.

Best for Heavy multi-threaded workloads such as video rendering and software compilationBest for Custom desktop builds requiring high peak clock speeds on the LGA 1851 socket

Pros

High 24-core configuration suited for demanding multi-threaded tasks
Maximum boost clock speeds of up to 5.5 GHz
Built using an advanced 3nm manufacturing process
Unlocked multiplier allows for custom processor overclocking

Cons

High peak power consumption reaching up to 250 W under heavy loads
Requires the LGA 1851 platform socket, limiting upgrade options on older motherboards

Official

Official specificationsProvided technical specifications including core counts, clock frequencies, power ratings, and socket platform details.

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Nov 3, 2026

Intel Core i5 12600K

The Intel Core i5 12600K is a 10-core, 16-thread desktop processor built for the LGA1700 platform. Introduced in late 2021, it offers a 3.7 GHz base clock with boost speeds up to 4.9 GHz and includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770. It targets users seeking a balanced mid-range CPU for gaming and desktop productivity with manual overclocking support.

Best for Mid-range gaming builds with room for manual clock frequency tuningBest for General desktop productivity tasks benefiting from multi-core processing

Pros

10 cores and 16 threads deliver solid multi-tasking performance
Unlocked processor allows for manual overclocking
High peak frequency reaching up to 4.9 GHz
Includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 for display output

Cons

Maximum power consumption of 150 W requires effective cooling solutions
Requires an LGA1700 motherboard socket, necessitating a system upgrade from older platforms

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 Ultra 7 270K Plus

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Intel Core i5 12600K

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus68,525

Intel Core i5 12600K27,497

See the raw benchmark values →

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus	Intel Core i5 12600K
Cores	24	10
Threads	24	16
Base Frequency	3.7 GHz	3.7 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W	125 W
Maximum Frequency	5.5 GHz12% more	4.9 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	250 W67% more	150 W
L1 Cache	2,432 KB181% more	864 KB
L2 Cache	40 MB321% more	9.5 MB
L3 Cache	36 MB80% more	20 MB
Lithography Process	3 nm57% less	7 nm
Is unlocked	Yes	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus	Intel Core i5 12600K
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus	Intel Core i5 12600K
PassMark CPU Mark	68,525149% more	27,497

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus vs Intel Core i5 12600K comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus rates higher at 84/100 versus 55/100 for Intel Core i5 12600K — a 29-point lead. Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and Intel Core i5 12600K 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 84/100 for Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus and 55/100 for Intel Core i5 12600K.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus (84/100) edges out Intel Core i5 12600K (55/100). But if Intel Core i5 12600K is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.