Intel Core Ultra 7 255H vs Intel Core i7 12700K

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

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H is the better pick — it scores 59/100 to the Intel Core i7 12700K's 54, leading on Core Specifications and Integrated Graphics. Choose the Intel Core i7 12700K instead if benchmark matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 7 255H leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 7 255H

Intel Core i7 12700K

Why it stands out

Core Specifications L2 Cache: 20 MB (67% more)
Core Specifications L1 Cache: 1,632 KB (59% more)
Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm (57% less)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 7 255H vs Intel Core i7 12700K
Category	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H	Intel Core i7 12700K	Winner
Core Specifications	63	37	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H
Integrated Graphics	37	26	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H
Benchmark	59	66	Intel Core i7 12700K

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 255H

The Intel Core Ultra 7 255H is a mobile processor in Intel's Core Ultra Series 2 lineup, belonging to the Arrow Lake-H family. Designed for higher-tier laptops and mobile workstations, it targets users who need strong computing capability for demanding applications on the move. As an H-series processor, it balances performance scaling with modern power management features.

Best for Demanding multi-threaded tasks on high-performance laptopsBest for Mobile productivity requiring elevated processing capacity

Pros

Part of Intel's Series 2 mobile architecture designed for performance laptops
Tailored for high-throughput computing in portable form factors

Cons

H-series power requirements typically result in faster battery drain under heavy sustained workloads

Intel Core i7 12700K

The Intel Core i7 12700K is an unlocked desktop processor built on the LGA1700 platform using a 7nm process. It features 12 cores and 20 threads with a base frequency of 3.6 GHz and a maximum boost frequency of 5.0 GHz. Designed for enthusiasts and heavy desktop workloads, it includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 and has a base power draw of 125W.

Best for High-performance gaming and productivity builds needing strong multithreaded perBest for PC builders planning to manually overclock their desktop processor on the LGA170

Pros

High maximum boost clock speed of up to 5.0 GHz across 20 threads
Unlocked multiplier allows for manual processor overclocking
Includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 display capabilities

Cons

High maximum power consumption reaching up to 190W under full load
Requires a compatible LGA1700 motherboard platform

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 255H

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Intel Core i7 12700K

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 7 255H30,754

Intel Core i7 12700K34,228

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 7 255H	Intel Core i7 12700K
Cores	16	12
Threads	16	20
Base Frequency	2 GHz	3.6 GHz80% more
Base Power Consumption	28 W	125 W346% more
Maximum Frequency	5.1 GHz	5 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	115 W	190 W65% more
L1 Cache	1,632 KB59% more	1,024 KB
L2 Cache	20 MB67% more	12 MB
L3 Cache	24 MB	25 MB4% more
Lithography Process	3 nm57% less	7 nm
Is unlocked	No	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H	Intel Core i7 12700K
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H	Intel Core i7 12700K
PassMark CPU Mark	30,754	34,22811% more

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 255H vs Intel Core i7 12700K comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core Ultra 7 255H scores 64/100 and Intel Core i7 12700K scores 63/100 in our overall comparison — within 1 point. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.

Intel Core Ultra 7 255H and Intel Core i7 12700K 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 64/100 for Intel Core Ultra 7 255H and 63/100 for Intel Core i7 12700K.

It's close — Intel Core Ultra 7 255H (64/100) and Intel Core i7 12700K (63/100) 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.