
Core 5 120
Intel
PassMark
21,629
MSRP
$340
AVG Price
$340
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Core 5 120 is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 31 July 2025 (less than a year ago). It is based on the Raptor Lake-R (2023−2025) architecture. It features 6 cores and 12 threads. Base frequency is 2.5 GHz, with boost up to 4.5 GHz. L3 cache: 18 MB (total). L2 cache: 1.25 MB (per core). Built on 10 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1700. Thermal design power (TDP): 65 Watt. Memory support: DDR4, DDR5. Passmark benchmark score: 21,629 points. Launch price was $211.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core 5 120
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core 5 120 across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.

Path of Exile 2

Counter-Strike 2

League of Legends

Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core 5 120 specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core 5 120 is a 6-core / 12-thread processor based on the Raptor Lake-R (2023−2025) architecture, manufactured on a 10 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.5 GHz from a base frequency of 2.5 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 18 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 1.25 MB (per core) of L2 cache and 80 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 21,629, placing it in the Mid-Range performance tier as a Current Gen generation product.
| Specification | Core 5 120 |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 6C / 12T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.5 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 2.5 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Raptor Lake-R (2023−2025) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 10 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 18 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 1.25 MB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 80 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 163 mm2 |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 21,629 |
Memory & Platform
The Core 5 120 fits into the LGA1700 socket and supports PCIe 5.0. It supports DDR4, DDR5 memory.
| Specification | Core 5 120 |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1700 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 5.0 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4, DDR5 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Power & Cooling
The Core 5 120 has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 65 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core 5 120 |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 65 Watt |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $340, the Core 5 120 delivers 64 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #701 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core 5 120 |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $340 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $340 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $211 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #701 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 31 July 2025 (less than a year ago) |
| Release Year | 2025 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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