Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX 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 9 275HX is the better pick — it scores 79/100 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 9 275HX leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX

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: 55,677 (102% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX vs Intel Core i5 12600K
Category	Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX	Intel Core i5 12600K	Winner
Core Specifications	73	31	Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	88	49	Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX

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 9 275HX

The Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX is a high-performance mobile processor built for demanding laptop computers and portable workstations. With a PassMark CPU Mark score of 58,000, this chip is designed to deliver desktop-class processing power on the go. It is primarily built for users who need to execute resource-heavy applications, gaming, and professional-grade content creation.

Best for Intensive multi-threaded applications like 3D rendering, simulation software…Best for High-end mobile gaming configurations that demand elite levels of CPU…

Pros

Strong computational performance indicated by a high PassMark benchmark score of 58,000
Capable of handling complex multi-threaded software and heavy multitasking workloads

Cons

High energy demands typical of the HX class can significantly reduce laptop battery longevity
Generates substantial heat, requiring robust thermal cooling solutions that often increase laptop thickness and weight

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 9 275HX

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Intel Core i5 12600K

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX55,677

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.

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX	Intel Core i5 12600K
Cores	24	10
Threads	24	16
Base Frequency	2.7 GHz	3.7 GHz37% more
Base Power Consumption	55 W	125 W127% more
Maximum Frequency	5.4 GHz10% more	4.9 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	160 W7% 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	N/A	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX	Intel Core i5 12600K
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX	Intel Core i5 12600K
PassMark CPU Mark	55,677102% 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 9 275HX vs Intel Core i5 12600K comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX rates higher at 81/100 versus 55/100 for Intel Core i5 12600K — a 26-point lead. Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX 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 9 275HX 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 81/100 for Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX and 55/100 for Intel Core i5 12600K.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX (81/100) 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.