Intel Core i9 12900K vs Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

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

The Intel Core i9 12900K and Intel Core Ultra X9 388H are closely matched at 62 and 62/100. The Intel Core i9 12900K edges ahead on Benchmark, while the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H leads on Core Specifications and Integrated Graphics — pick the one whose strengths match what you'll actually use.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core i9 12900K and Intel Core Ultra X9 388H are closely matched

Intel Core i9 12900K

Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

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 X9 388H stands out

Core Specifications L2 Cache: 24 MB (71% more)
Integrated Graphics Model: Intel Arc B390
Core Specifications L1 Cache: 1,600 KB (14% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core i9 12900K vs Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Category	Intel Core i9 12900K	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H	Winner
Core Specifications	53	59	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Integrated Graphics	22	48	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Benchmark	72	65	Intel Core i9 12900K

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 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 X9 388H

The Intel Core Ultra X9 388H is a high-performance mobile processor featuring 16 cores and 16 threads, designed for demanding laptop applications. It scales from a 25-watt base power consumption up to 80 watts maximum, pairing a 5.1 GHz maximum frequency with integrated Intel Arc B390 graphics.

Best for high-performance content creation laptopsBest for demanding mobile computing and gaming systems

Pros

High maximum frequency of 5.1 GHz for demanding workloads
Robust multi-core performance with 16 cores and 16 threads
Generous 24 MB L2 cache and 18 MB L3 cache configuration
Capable Intel Arc B390 integrated graphics

Cons

High power consumption scaling up to 80 watts under maximum load
May require robust laptop thermal solutions to maintain peak performance

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 X9 388H

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core i9 12900K41,096

Intel Core Ultra X9 388H36,504

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 X9 388H
Cores	16	16
Threads	24	16
Base Frequency	3.2 GHz52% more	2.1 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W400% more	25 W
Maximum Frequency	5.2 GHz	5.1 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 X9 388H
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900K	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
PassMark CPU Mark	41,09613% more	36,504

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 X9 388H comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core i9 12900K scores 69/100 and Intel Core Ultra X9 388H scores 69/100 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 12900K and Intel Core Ultra X9 388H 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 69/100 for Intel Core Ultra X9 388H.

It's close — Intel Core i9 12900K (69/100) and Intel Core Ultra X9 388H (69/100) 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.