Core i9-12900K
Intel
PassMark
41,180
MSRP
$589
AVG Price
$322
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 i9-12900K is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 4 November 2021 (4 years ago). It is based on the Alder Lake, Golden Cove, Gracemont (2021) architecture. It features 16 cores and 24 threads. Base frequency is 3.2 GHz, with boost up to 5.2 GHz. L3 cache: 30 MB (total). L2 cache: 1.25 MB (per core). Built on 10 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1700. Thermal design power (TDP): 125 Watt. Memory support: DDR4, DDR5. Passmark benchmark score: 41,180 points. Launch price was $589.
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 i9-12900K
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i9-12900K 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 i9-12900K specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i9-12900K is a 16-core / 24-thread processor based on the Alder Lake, Golden Cove, Gracemont (2021) architecture, manufactured on a 10 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 5.2 GHz from a base frequency of 3.2 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 30 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 41,180, placing it in the Enthusiast performance tier as a Aging generation product.
| Specification | Core i9-12900K |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 16C / 24T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 5.2 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.2 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Alder Lake, Golden Cove, Gracemont (2021) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 10 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 30 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 1.25 MB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 80K (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 215.25 mm2" |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 8 × 16 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | Yes |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 41,180 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i9-12900K fits into the LGA1700 socket and supports PCIe 5.0 with 20 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). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 770 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i9-12900K |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SeriesProduct family | Intel Core i9 |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1700 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 5.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 20 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR4, DDR5 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR5-4800 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 128 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel UHD Graphics 770 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Intel 600 series,Intel 700 series |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Power & Cooling
The Core i9-12900K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 125 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core i9-12900K |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 125 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $322 (MSRP: $589), the Core i9-12900K delivers 128 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #276 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i9-12900K |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $589 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $322 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $589 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #276 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 4 November 2021 (4 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2021 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Core i9-12900K
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