Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12950HX

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 12950HX's 47, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core i9 12950HX 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 12950HX

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 125 W (127% more)
Core Specifications L2 Cache: 40 MB (186% more)
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 67,232 (117% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core i9 12950HX
Category	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12950HX	Winner
Core Specifications	61	42	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
Integrated Graphics	29	29	Tie
Benchmark	94	52	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 12950HX

The Intel Core i9 12950HX is a high-performance mobile processor designed for heavy-duty laptops and mobile workstations. Built with 16 cores and 24 threads, the chip operates at a 2.3 GHz base frequency with a maximum boost speed up to 5.0 GHz. It runs at a 55 W base power level that can draw up to 157 W during peak power consumption, bringing desktop-class multithreaded execution to laptop platforms.

Best for Heavy mobile workstation tasks like 3D rendering and video compilationBest for High-end desktop-replacement laptops requiring top-tier CPU compute power

Pros

High core and thread count featuring 16 cores and 24 threads for complex multithreaded execution
Maximum boost frequency of up to 5.0 GHz for strong single-core performance
Substantial memory caching with 30 MB of L3 cache and 14 MB of L2 cache

Cons

High peak power consumption reaching 157 W, demanding significant cooling and power delivery
Locked multiplier prevents manual CPU overclocking
Integrated Intel UHD graphics provide basic display output, requiring a discrete GPU for demanding visual tasks

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 12950HX

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K67,232

Intel Core i9 12950HX30,976

See the raw benchmark values →

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12950HX
Cores	24	16
Threads	24	24
Base Frequency	3.7 GHz61% more	2.3 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W127% more	55 W
Maximum Frequency	5.7 GHz14% more	5 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	250 W59% more	157 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 12950HX
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core i9 12950HX
PassMark CPU Mark	67,232117% more	30,976

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 12950HX comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K rates higher at 84/100 versus 62/100 for Intel Core i9 12950HX — a 22-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 12950HX 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 62/100 for Intel Core i9 12950HX.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K (84/100) edges out Intel Core i9 12950HX (62/100). But if Intel Core i9 12950HX 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.