Core i7-12650HX
CPU·Mid-Range

Core i7-12650HX

Intel

PassMark

23,215

10 May 2022 (3 years ago)
55 Watt
Alder Lake-HX (2022)

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 i7-12650HX is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 10 May 2022 (3 years ago). It is based on the Alder Lake-HX (2022) architecture. It features 14 cores and 20 threads. Base frequency is 2 GHz, with boost up to 4.7 GHz. L3 cache: 24 MB (total). L2 cache: 1.25 MB (per core). Built on Intel 7 nm process technology. Socket: FCBGA1964. Thermal design power (TDP): 55 Watt. Memory support: DDR4, DDR5. Passmark benchmark score: 23,215 points. Launch price was $299.

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.

MSRP is the manufacturer's suggested retail price.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.

Performance Per Dollar Core i7-12650HX

#125
Core i7-13700H
MSRP: $502|Avg: N/A
106%
#140
Core i7-12650HX
MSRP: N/A|Avg: N/A
100%
#144
Core i7-12650H
MSRP: $457|Avg: N/A
97%
#153
Core i7-1370P
MSRP: $438|Avg: $280
93%
Based on actual market prices and performance synthetic scores.

Technical Analysis

Detailed breakdown of Core i7-12650HX specifications and capabilities.

Processing Power

The Core i7-12650HX is a 14-core / 20-thread processor based on the Alder Lake-HX (2022) architecture, manufactured on a Intel 7 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.7 GHz from a base frequency of 2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 24 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 1.25 MB (per core) of L2 cache and 80K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 23,215, placing it in the Mid-Range performance tier as a Aging generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 2,400, while multi-core reaches 10,250.

SpecificationCore i7-12650HX
Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units14C / 20T
Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost4.7 GHz
Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency2 GHz
ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture designAlder Lake-HX (2022)
Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficientIntel 7 nm
L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores24 MB (total)
L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data1.25 MB (per core)
L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache80K (per core)
Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor215 mm2
Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax)100 °C
64-bit SupportYes
Windows 11 CompatibleYes
Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclockedYes (Overclockable)
PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score23,215
Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming2,400
Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance10,250
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Memory & Platform

The Core i7-12650HX fits into the FCBGA1964 socket and supports PCIe 5.0 with 48 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4, DDR5 memory at speeds up to DDR5-4800 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 128 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 770 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.

SpecificationCore i7-12650HX
TypeDesktop or Laptop processorLaptop
SocketMotherboard socket requiredFCBGA1964
PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidthPCIe 5.0
PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion48
RAM TypeSupported memory standardDDR4, DDR5
Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequencyDDR5-4800
Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory128 GB
RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel2
ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruptionNo
Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processorIntel UHD Graphics 770
Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPUHM670,WM690
Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers1
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Advanced Features

The Core i7-12650HX is primarily designed for Gaming Laptop. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).

SpecificationCore i7-12650HX
Primary Use CaseIntended workload categoryGaming Laptop
OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased✅ Unlocked
AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads❌ Not Supported
VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technologyVT-x, VT-d
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Power & Cooling

The Core i7-12650HX has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 55 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: High End Laptop Cooling.

SpecificationCore i7-12650HX
TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload55 Watt
Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax)100 °C
Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the boxNone
Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solutionHigh End Laptop Cooling
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Value Analysis

Performance ranking position: #638 out of all indexed processors.

SpecificationCore i7-12650HX
Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch$299
Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking#638
Release DateLaunch date10 May 2022 (3 years ago)
Release Year2022
DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD)Intel
ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC)Intel

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