Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900KS

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

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is the better pick — it scores 79/100 to the Intel Core i9 12900KS's 54, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core i9 12900KS instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

Intel Core i9 12900KS

Why it stands out

Core Specifications L2 Cache: 40 MB (186% more)
Core Specifications L1 Cache: 2,432 KB (73% more)
Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm (57% less)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900KS
Category	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900KS	Winner
Core Specifications	67	37	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	91	66	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

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 9 285K

The Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is a high-performance microprocessor utilizing the Arrow Lake microarchitecture. This type of processor, which debuted in 2024, is engineered for demanding desktop computing tasks. It is best suited for power users and enthusiasts requiring exceptional computational capability.

Best for high-performance tasksBest for content creationBest for intensive gaming

Pros

Designed on the modern Arrow Lake architecture (Source 1)
Represents a powerful step in Intel’s Core series development (Source 2)
Targeted as a desktop processor for high-end performance computing (Inferred from product type and general knowledge)

Cons

Requires specific system compatibility to leverage its modern microarchitecture (General PC knowledge)
The product is associated with the Arrow Lake platform, indicating it belongs to Intel's current generation offerings (Source 1)

Intel Core i9 12900KS

The Intel Core i9 12900KS is a top-tier desktop processor designed for the LGA1700 platform, equipped with 16 cores and 24 threads. It features a maximum boost clock frequency of up to 5.5 GHz alongside integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770. Built for enthusiasts and demanding power users, it prioritizes extreme single-core and multi-core performance, though it demands a robust cooling solution to manage its thermal output.

Best for High-framerate PC gaming requiring top-tier single-core clock speedsBest for Demanding multi-threaded tasks such as video rendering and 3D animation

Pros

High peak clock speeds reaching up to 5.5 GHz
16 cores and 24 threads provide strong multi-threaded performance
Unlocked design allows for manual user overclocking
Includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 for display output without a discrete GPU

Cons

High maximum power consumption reaching 241 W under heavy workloads
150 W base power requirement requires substantial thermal management

Official

Official specificationsProvided core technical specifications including core/thread count, clock speeds, cache sizes, power draw ratings, and integrated graphics details.

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Nov 3, 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 9 285K

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Intel Core i9 12900KS

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K67,232

Intel Core i9 12900KS43,378

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 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900KS
Cores	24	16
Threads	24	24
Base Frequency	3.7 GHz9% more	3.4 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W	150 W20% more
Maximum Frequency	5.7 GHz4% more	5.5 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 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900KS
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12900KS
PassMark CPU Mark	67,23255% more	43,378

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 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12900KS comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K rates higher at 84/100 versus 70/100 for Intel Core i9 12900KS — a 14-point lead. Intel Core Ultra 9 285K 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 9 285K and Intel Core i9 12900KS 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 9 285K and 70/100 for Intel Core i9 12900KS.

At launch, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K was the more affordable option ($589) versus Intel Core i9 12900KS ($739). Weigh that against the overall scores (84/100 vs 70/100) and the value-for-money meter above to judge whether the higher-rated model justifies its price for your needs. Current retail prices vary — check the retailer.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K (84/100) edges out Intel Core i9 12900KS (70/100). But if Intel Core i9 12900KS 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.