Intel Core Ultra 7 265K vs Intel Core i9 12900H

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

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 7 265K is the better pick — it scores 76/100 to the Intel Core i9 12900H's 44, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core i9 12900H instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 7 265K leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 7 265K

Intel Core i9 12900H

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 125 W (178% more)
Core Specifications Maximum Power Consumption: 250 W (117% more)
Core Specifications L2 Cache: 36 MB (213% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 7 265K vs Intel Core i9 12900H
Category	Intel Core Ultra 7 265K	Intel Core i9 12900H	Winner
Core Specifications	60	40	Intel Core Ultra 7 265K
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	90	47	Intel Core Ultra 7 265K

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 265K

The Intel Core Ultra 7 265K is a desktop processor from Intel's Core Ultra Series lineup designed for mainstream and performance PC builds. It targets desktop users who require strong multi-threaded performance for demanding creative applications alongside daily computing tasks. Built to succeed older Core i7 architectures, it offers a refreshed platform for content creators and PC enthusiasts.

Best for Content creation workflows including video editing in Adobe Premiere Pro and 3D Best for Mixed-use desktop PCs prioritizing heavy multi-threaded productivity over pure h

Pros

Competitive performance in multi-core productivity applications like Blender and video editing software
Solid single-core capability across modern photo and video creation suites
Offers a balanced feature set for general desktop productivity and workstation tasks

Cons

Gaming performance falls behind specialized gaming processors like AMD's X3D series in multiple titles

Intel Core i9 12900H

The Intel Core i9 12900H is a high-performance mobile processor designed for intensive laptops like portable workstations and gaming rigs. Released in early 2022, it features 14 cores, 20 threads, and maximum clock speeds reaching up to 5.0 GHz. Manufactured on a 7nm lithography process, this chip incorporates 24 MB of L3 cache alongside integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics for basic display management.

Best for High-end mobile gaming setups paired with a dedicated graphics cardBest for Demanding creative workloads like high-resolution video rendering and 3D asset c

Pros

High 14-core, 20-thread configuration delivers solid multi-threaded performance
Reaches peak boost frequencies of up to 5.0 GHz for responsive single-core execution
Large 24 MB L3 cache facilitates fast data access during complex processing tasks
Includes integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics for display output without requiring continuous discrete GPU power

Cons

Maximum power consumption reaches 115W under full load, requiring robust thermal solutions and shortening battery life
Locked design prevents manual core overclocking

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 265K

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Intel Core i9 12900H

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 7 265K58,572

Intel Core i9 12900H26,524

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 7 265K	Intel Core i9 12900H
Cores	20	14
Threads	20	20
Base Frequency	3.9 GHz56% more	2.5 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W178% more	45 W
Maximum Frequency	5.5 GHz10% more	5 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	250 W117% more	115 W
L1 Cache	2,048 KB64% more	1,248 KB
L2 Cache	36 MB213% more	11.5 MB
L3 Cache	30 MB25% more	24 MB
Lithography Process	3 nm57% less	7 nm
Is unlocked	Yes	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 265K	Intel Core i9 12900H
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 265K	Intel Core i9 12900H
PassMark CPU Mark	58,572121% more	26,524

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 265K vs Intel Core i9 12900H comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 7 265K rates higher at 81/100 versus 56/100 for Intel Core i9 12900H — a 25-point lead. Intel Core Ultra 7 265K 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 7 265K and Intel Core i9 12900H 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 7 265K and 56/100 for Intel Core i9 12900H.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 7 265K (81/100) edges out Intel Core i9 12900H (56/100). But if Intel Core i9 12900H 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.