Intel Core i9 12900K vs Intel Core Ultra 9 386H

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i9 12900K is the better pick — it scores 63/100 to the Intel Core Ultra 9 386H's 60, leading on Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core Ultra 9 386H instead if core specifications matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core i9 12900K and Intel Core Ultra 9 386H are closely matched

Intel Core i9 12900K

Intel Core Ultra 9 386H

Where Intel Core i9 12900K stands out

Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 125 W (400% more)
Core Specifications Maximum Power Consumption: 241 W (201% more)
Core Specifications L3 Cache: 30 MB (67% more)

Where Intel Core Ultra 9 386H stands out

Core Specifications L2 Cache: 24 MB (71% more)
Core Specifications L1 Cache: 1,600 KB (14% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core i9 12900K vs Intel Core Ultra 9 386H
Category	Intel Core i9 12900K	Intel Core Ultra 9 386H	Winner
Core Specifications	54	60	Intel Core Ultra 9 386H
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	72	64	Intel Core i9 12900K

In-depth analysisAI

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

Intel Core Ultra 9 386H

The Intel Core Ultra 9 386H is a high-performance mobile processor designed for premium, power-oriented laptop computers. Featuring a robust PassMark CPU Mark score of 44,000, this system-on-chip is engineered to handle demanding computational workloads and heavy multitasking on the go.

Best for Intense multi-threaded workflows such as video rendering, 3D compilation, and…Best for Premium gaming laptops and high-end mobile workstations

Pros

Delivers exceptional multi-threaded performance, validated by a PassMark score of 44,000
Tailored for high-end portable computing setups requiring desktop-class processing power

Cons

High performance potential typically results in increased thermal output and elevated power consumption under load

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 12900K

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Intel Core Ultra 9 386H

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core i9 12900K41,096

Intel Core Ultra 9 386H36,183

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 i9 12900K	Intel Core Ultra 9 386H
Cores	16	16
Threads	24	16
Base Frequency	3.2 GHz	N/A
Base Power Consumption	125 W400% more	25 W
Maximum Frequency	5.2 GHz6% more	4.9 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	241 W201% more	80 W
L1 Cache	1,408 KB	1,600 KB14% more
L2 Cache	14 MB	24 MB71% more
L3 Cache	30 MB67% more	18 MB
Lithography Process	7 nm	N/A
Is unlocked	Yes	N/A

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900K	Intel Core Ultra 9 386H
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900K	Intel Core Ultra 9 386H
PassMark CPU Mark	41,09614% more	36,183

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 12900K vs Intel Core Ultra 9 386H comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core i9 12900K scores 69/100 and Intel Core Ultra 9 386H scores 68/100 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 i9 12900K and Intel Core Ultra 9 386H 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 69/100 for Intel Core i9 12900K and 68/100 for Intel Core Ultra 9 386H.

It's close — Intel Core i9 12900K (69/100) and Intel Core Ultra 9 386H (68/100) 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.