Intel Core i5-12400 vs Intel Core i5-12600

The Intel Core i5-12400 and Intel Core i5-12600 are both 12th generation desktop processors from Intel, based on the Alder Lake S architecture.

Both were manufactured using the 10 nm manufacturing process and support the PCIe 5.0 standard. They share an identical cache structure with 8 MB Level 2 Cache and 18 MB Level 3 Cache, as well as a maximum memory bandwidth of 77 GB/s. The Intel Core i5-12400 is a solid and cost-effective option for general productivity and gaming, while the Intel Core i5-12600 offers enhanced performance for more demanding applications.

In performance tests, both models show comparable single-core performance, which is sufficient for most applications and many games. However, the Intel Core i5-12600 stands out with noticeably higher multi-core performance, which is over 10 percent better than that of the Intel Core i5-12400.

This makes it the better choice for workloads that benefit from many threads, such as content creation or complex multitasking. For gaming, both processors are well suited, as single-core strength is often crucial. Regarding integrated graphics, the Intel Core i5-12400 offers Intel UHD Graphics 730, while the Intel Core i5-12600 is equipped with the more powerful Intel UHD Graphics 770.

For demanding gaming, a separate graphics card is recommended for both. Specific data on power consumption, thermal design power, and current market prices were not provided.