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

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 60/100 to the Intel Core i7 12700KF's 56, leading on Core Specifications and Integrated Graphics. Choose the Intel Core i7 12700KF instead if benchmark matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 7 255H and Intel Core i7 12700KF are closely matched

Intel Core Ultra 7 255H

Intel Core i7 12700KF

Where Intel Core Ultra 7 255H 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)

Where Intel Core i7 12700KF stands out

Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 125 W (346% more)
Core Specifications Base Frequency: 3.6 GHz (80% more)
Core Specifications Maximum Power Consumption: 190 W (65% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core i7 12700KF vs Intel Core Ultra 7 255H
Category	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H	Intel Core i7 12700KF	Winner
Core Specifications	63	37	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H
Integrated Graphics	48	0	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H
Benchmark	60	65	Intel Core i7 12700KF

In-depth analysisAI

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

Intel Core i7 12700KF

The Intel Core i7 12700KF is a 12-core, 20-thread desktop processor built on the LGA1700 platform and Intel's 7nm process node. Operating with a base frequency of 3.6 GHz and boosting up to 5.0 GHz, this unlocked CPU is designed for performance-focused users who plan to overclock. Because it lacks integrated graphics, it is tailored specifically for desktop builds paired with a discrete graphics card.

Best for Gaming and workstation builds equipped with a dedicated graphics cardBest for Enthusiasts seeking a high-performance LGA1700 CPU with manual overclocking pote

Pros

High peak clock speeds up to 5.0 GHz with 12 cores and 20 threads for heavy multi-threaded tasks
Unlocked multiplier allows for custom processor overclocking
Generous total cache configuration including 25 MB of L3 cache

Cons

Lacks integrated graphics, necessitating a dedicated graphics card for monitor output
High peak power consumption of up to 190 W under heavy loads requires robust cooling

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

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 i7 12700KF

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Intel Core Ultra 7 255H

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core i7 12700KF33,888

Intel Core Ultra 7 255H30,754

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

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core i7 12700KF	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H
Model	N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core i7 12700KF	Intel Core Ultra 7 255H
PassMark CPU Mark	33,88810% more	30,754

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 i7 12700KF vs Intel Core Ultra 7 255H comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core i7 12700KF scores 65/100 and Intel Core Ultra 7 255H scores 64/100 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 i7 12700KF and Intel Core Ultra 7 255H 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 65/100 for Intel Core i7 12700KF and 64/100 for Intel Core Ultra 7 255H.

It's close — Intel Core i7 12700KF (65/100) and Intel Core Ultra 7 255H (64/100) 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.