Intel Core i5-12600 vs Intel Core Ultra 7 255H

The Intel Core i5-12600 is a desktop processor based on the Alder Lake-S architecture, optimized for mainstream PCs.

It is manufactured using a 10 nm process and combines performance with efficiency cores. With 8 MB L2 and 18 MB L3 cache, PCIe 5.0 support, and a maximum memory bandwidth of 77 GB/s, it offers a solid foundation. Its integrated graphics unit is the Intel UHD Graphics 770. In comparison, it has lower single- and multi-core performance than its mobile counterpart.

The higher TDP of the desktop processor allows for more robust cooling solutions. The Intel Core Ultra 7 255H is a mobile processor based on the advanced Arrow Lake-H architecture, developed for high-performance notebooks.

It is manufactured using a modern 3 nm process and also utilizes a hybrid core arrangement. With 6 MB L2 and 24 MB L3 cache, as well as a maximum memory bandwidth of 134 GB/s, it offers considerable performance. Its integrated Intel Arc 140T graphics unit is significantly more powerful than that of the Intel Core i5-12600.

In benchmarks, it outperforms the Intel Core i5-12600 in both single- and multi-core performance by over 10 percent. It is optimized for energy efficiency for mobile devices. For gaming, the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H offers better performance, especially due to its superior integrated graphics.

The Intel Core i5-12600 is suitable for desktop users with a separate graphics card, while the Intel Core Ultra 7 255H is ideal for mobile users with high performance demands and strong integrated graphics. A direct price-performance comparison is difficult due to the different platforms.