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

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i9 12900KS is the better pick — it scores 64/100 to the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H's 61, leading on Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H instead if core specifications and integrated graphics matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

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

Intel Core i9 12900KS

Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

Where Intel Core i9 12900KS stands out

Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 150 W (500% 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 12900KS vs Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Category	Intel Core i9 12900KS	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H	Winner
Core Specifications	54	59	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Integrated Graphics	22	48	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Benchmark	74	64	Intel Core i9 12900KS

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 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

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 12900KS

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Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core i9 12900KS43,378

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 12900KS	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Cores	16	16
Threads	24	16
Base Frequency	3.4 GHz62% more	2.1 GHz
Base Power Consumption	150 W500% more	25 W
Maximum Frequency	5.5 GHz8% more	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 12900KS	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900KS	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
PassMark CPU Mark	43,37819% 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 12900KS vs Intel Core Ultra X9 388H comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core i9 12900KS scores 70/100 and Intel Core Ultra X9 388H scores 69/100 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 12900KS 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 70/100 for Intel Core i9 12900KS and 69/100 for Intel Core Ultra X9 388H.

It's close — Intel Core i9 12900KS (70/100) 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.