Intel Core i9 12900F vs Intel Core Ultra 9 285H

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

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H is the better pick — it scores 61/100 to the Intel Core i9 12900F's 57, leading on Core Specifications and Integrated Graphics. Choose the Intel Core i9 12900F instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 9 285H and Intel Core i9 12900F are closely matched

Intel Core Ultra 9 285H

Intel Core i9 12900F

Where Intel Core Ultra 9 285H stands out

Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm (57% less)
Core Specifications L2 Cache: 20 MB (43% more)
Core Specifications Base Frequency: 2.9 GHz (21% more)

Where Intel Core i9 12900F stands out

Core Specifications Maximum Power Consumption: 202 W (76% more)
Core Specifications Threads: 24
Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 65 W (44% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core i9 12900F vs Intel Core Ultra 9 285H
Category	Intel Core Ultra 9 285H	Intel Core i9 12900F	Winner
Core Specifications	59	38	Intel Core Ultra 9 285H
Integrated Graphics	48	0	Intel Core Ultra 9 285H
Benchmark	64	66	Tie

In-depth analysisAI

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

Intel Core i9 12900F

The Intel Core i9 12900F is a desktop processor built for the LGA1700 platform, featuring 16 cores and 24 threads. It runs at a base clock speed of 2.4 GHz and can boost up to 5.1 GHz for demanding computational tasks. Designed without integrated graphics or overclocking support, this CPU is aimed at performance-focused users who plan to use a discrete graphics card.

Best for Desktops built primarily for gaming with a dedicated graphics cardBest for Content creation and video rendering builds that do not require CPU overclocking

Pros

High 16-core, 24-thread configuration for heavy multi-threaded workloads
Boost clock speeds reaching up to 5.1 GHz
Modest 65W base power consumption under standard operation

Cons

Lacks integrated graphics, requiring a discrete GPU for display output
Locked processor multiplier prevents manual overclocking
Maximum power consumption scales up to 202W under peak loads

Intel Core Ultra 9 285H

The Intel Core Ultra 9 285H is a high-performance mobile processor from Intel's Core Ultra Series 2 generation, built on the Arrow Lake-H microarchitecture. It is designed for premium laptops, targeting power users who require substantial compute throughput for heavy multitasking and demanding applications on the go.

Best for High-demand laptop computing including media production and software engineeringBest for Portable gaming setups requiring top-tier mobile CPU throughput

Pros

Positioned at the top tier of Intel's Core Ultra Series 2 mobile lineup for heavy workload handling
Utilizes the modern Arrow Lake-H platform designed for high-performance laptop designs

Cons

Higher power draw compared to thin-and-light U-series processors, reducing battery runtime under full load
Requires substantial thermal management solutions from laptop manufacturers to prevent throttling

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 i9 12900F

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Intel Core Ultra 9 285H

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core i9 12900F35,748

Intel Core Ultra 9 285H34,215

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 i9 12900F	Intel Core Ultra 9 285H
Cores	16	16
Threads	24	16
Base Frequency	2.4 GHz	2.9 GHz21% more
Base Power Consumption	65 W44% more	45 W
Maximum Frequency	5.1 GHz	5.4 GHz6% more
Maximum Power Consumption	202 W76% more	115 W
L1 Cache	1,408 KB	1,632 KB16% more
L2 Cache	14 MB	20 MB43% more
L3 Cache	30 MB25% more	24 MB
Lithography Process	7 nm	3 nm57% less
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900F	Intel Core Ultra 9 285H
Model	N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900F	Intel Core Ultra 9 285H
PassMark CPU Mark	35,7484% more	34,215

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 i9 12900F vs Intel Core Ultra 9 285H comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core i9 12900F scores 67/100 and Intel Core Ultra 9 285H scores 67/100 in our overall comparison — within 1 points. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.

Intel Core i9 12900F and Intel Core Ultra 9 285H 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 67/100 for Intel Core i9 12900F and 67/100 for Intel Core Ultra 9 285H.

It's close — Intel Core i9 12900F (67/100) and Intel Core Ultra 9 285H (67/100) 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.