Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900

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

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is the better pick — it scores 79/100 to the Intel Core i9 12900's 48, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core i9 12900 instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

Intel Core i9 12900

Why it stands out

Core Specifications L2 Cache: 40 MB (186% more)
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 67,232 (100% more)
Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 125 W (92% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900
Category	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900	Winner
Core Specifications	64	36	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	93	56	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

In-depth analysisAI

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

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

The Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is a high-performance microprocessor utilizing the Arrow Lake microarchitecture. This type of processor, which debuted in 2024, is engineered for demanding desktop computing tasks. It is best suited for power users and enthusiasts requiring exceptional computational capability.

Best for high-performance tasksBest for content creationBest for intensive gaming

Pros

Designed on the modern Arrow Lake architecture (Source 1)
Represents a powerful step in Intel’s Core series development (Source 2)
Targeted as a desktop processor for high-end performance computing (Inferred from product type and general knowledge)

Cons

Requires specific system compatibility to leverage its modern microarchitecture (General PC knowledge)
The product is associated with the Arrow Lake platform, indicating it belongs to Intel's current generation offerings (Source 1)

Intel Core i9 12900

The Core i9-12900K is a high-performance CPU model from the Intel line designed for demanding computing tasks. Its architecture belongs to the 12th generation of Intel processors, known as Alder Lake. This chip is aimed at enthusiasts and professionals who require maximum processing power in desktop applications.

Best for High-end GamingBest for Content CreationBest for Workstation Use

Pros

Offers substantial computational capability due to its advanced processor design (Source 2).
Provides robust performance suited for intensive multi-application workloads.

Cons

It belongs to a specific generation (12th gen), which may constrain it to certain motherboard chipsets.
The overall consumption and thermal demands of such high-end components can require significant cooling solutions.

Source

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Jun 28, 2026

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 285K

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Intel Core i9 12900

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K67,232

Intel Core i9 1290033,626

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 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900
Cores	24	16
Threads	24	24
Base Frequency	3.7 GHz54% more	2.4 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W92% more	65 W
Maximum Frequency	5.7 GHz12% more	5.1 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	250 W24% more	202 W
L1 Cache	2,432 KB73% more	1,408 KB
L2 Cache	40 MB186% more	14 MB
L3 Cache	36 MB20% more	30 MB
Lithography Process	3 nm57% less	7 nm
Is unlocked	Yes	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900
PassMark CPU Mark	67,232100% more	33,626

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 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900 comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K rates higher at 84/100 versus 63/100 for Intel Core i9 12900 — a 21-point lead. Intel Core Ultra 9 285K 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 285K and Intel Core i9 12900 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 9 285K and 63/100 for Intel Core i9 12900.

At launch, Intel Core i9 12900 was the more affordable option ($489) versus Intel Core Ultra 9 285K ($589). Weigh that against the overall scores (84/100 vs 63/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K (84/100) edges out Intel Core i9 12900 (63/100). But if Intel Core i9 12900 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.