Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus vs Intel Core i9 12900K

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

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus is the better pick — it scores 79/100 to the Intel Core i9 12900K's 53, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core i9 12900K instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus

Intel Core i9 12900K

Why it stands out

Core Specifications L2 Cache: 40 MB (186% more)
Core Specifications L1 Cache: 2,432 KB (73% more)
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 68,525 (67% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus vs Intel Core i9 12900K
Category	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus	Intel Core i9 12900K	Winner
Core Specifications	66	37	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	91	64	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus

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 270K Plus

The Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus is an unlocked desktop processor built on a 3nm lithography process for the LGA 1851 platform. It features 24 cores and 24 threads with a base clock frequency of 3.7 GHz and maximum boost speeds reaching up to 5.5 GHz. Designed for demanding desktop computing, it integrates Intel Graphics alongside a total of 76 MB of combined L2 and L3 cache.

Best for Heavy multi-threaded workloads such as video rendering and software compilationBest for Custom desktop builds requiring high peak clock speeds on the LGA 1851 socket

Pros

High 24-core configuration suited for demanding multi-threaded tasks
Maximum boost clock speeds of up to 5.5 GHz
Built using an advanced 3nm manufacturing process
Unlocked multiplier allows for custom processor overclocking

Cons

High peak power consumption reaching up to 250 W under heavy loads
Requires the LGA 1851 platform socket, limiting upgrade options on older motherboards

Official

Official specificationsProvided technical specifications including core counts, clock frequencies, power ratings, and socket platform details.

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Nov 3, 2026

Intel Core i9 12900K

The Intel Core i9-12900K is a high-performance CPU built by Intel. It belongs to the twelve-generation family of processors, targeting users who require maximum computational power.

Best for High-end workstationsBest for Content creationBest for Extreme gaming

Pros

Provides top-tier multi-core performance, suitable for heavy multitasking or demanding applications.
Belongs to the 12th generation line-up (Alder Lake), indicating a significant architectural step forward in Intel's core product range.

Cons

As a high-performance chip, it is designed to draw substantial power and may require robust cooling solutions.
The fact that the general Intel Core article lists many subsequent generations (up to 14th generation) suggests that this model is part of an evolving platform.

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 7 270K Plus

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Intel Core i9 12900K

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus68,525

Intel Core i9 12900K41,096

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 270K Plus	Intel Core i9 12900K
Cores	24	16
Threads	24	24
Base Frequency	3.7 GHz16% more	3.2 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W	125 W
Maximum Frequency	5.5 GHz6% more	5.2 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	250 W4% more	241 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	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus	Intel Core i9 12900K
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus	Intel Core i9 12900K
PassMark CPU Mark	68,52567% more	41,096

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 270K Plus vs Intel Core i9 12900K comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus rates higher at 84/100 versus 69/100 for Intel Core i9 12900K — a 15-point lead. Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus 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 270K Plus and Intel Core i9 12900K 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 7 270K Plus and 69/100 for Intel Core i9 12900K.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus (84/100) edges out Intel Core i9 12900K (69/100). But if Intel Core i9 12900K 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.