CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-8700 vs Intel Core i5-12600
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-8700 is a highly regarded mainstream desktop processor that brought six-core computing to the masses. Launched as part of the 8th Gen Coffee Lake family, it features six cores and twelve threads, representing a 50% increase in core count over the previous 7th Gen quad-core i7 models. Operating at a base clock of 3.2 GHz with a max turbo of 4.6 GHz, it delivers exceptional performance for both gaming and multi-threaded productivity tasks. Its 65-watt TDP ensures it runs efficiently and coolly under typical loads. The processor includes Intel UHD Graphics 630, providing a safety net for systems without a dedicated GPU. It struck a perfect balance between price and performance, becoming the go-to recommendation for gamers and content creators who didn't need the unlocked overclocking features of the i7-8700K. Its robust multi-threading capabilities make it highly capable of handling modern workloads, including video editing and heavy multitasking.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
12 threads crush office workloads and compiling tasks.
Smooth handling of daily applications and multitasking.
Gaming
Capable of handling modern GPUs without significant bottlenecking.
Slightly better gaming performance than 12500 due to higher clocks.
Virtualization
Excellent for home labs and running multiple VMs.
Suitable for basic virtual machine setups.
Efficiency
Highly efficient 65W design for the performance offered.
Maintains 65W base power while offering 4.8GHz boosts.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- Good CPU inference due to 12 threads
- No dedicated AI hardware
- CPU inference only
Content Creation
Gaming
- Handles RTX 3070/3080 class GPUs well
- High turbo boost ensures high frame rates
- Great for 144Hz gaming
- High boost clock benefits gaming
- Good 1440p CPU
- Includes iGPU
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent price-to-performance
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- 4.6 GHz turbo boost
- Easy to cool
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- Older 14nm process
- Limited to PCIe 3.0
- Platform is dead (LGA 1151)
Pros
- High 4.8GHz boost clock
- Integrated UHD 770 graphics
- DDR5 and PCIe 5.0 support
- Good single-core performance
- 65W base TDP
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- Lacks E-cores
- Slightly more expensive than 12400
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-8700
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 2600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-8700KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-8600KRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 2700XRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Faster single-core, newer platform.
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative with better IPC.
Cheaper, similar performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
More cores, better efficiency.
Intel Core i5-12600
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-12500Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 7600Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800XRival
Desktop
Unlocked with E-cores for better multi-threading.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Strong budget competitor.
Our Verdict on Each
One of the best value desktop processors of its generation, offering 95% of the i7-8700K's performance at a lower price and power draw.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 1151 system for high-refresh gaming.
Read the full reviewA slight step up from the 12500, offering higher clock speeds for a noticeable bump in single-core performance.
Best for: The Core i5-12600 is an excellent buy for users seeking strong out-of-the-box performance without overclocking. Its higher base and boost clocks over the i5-12500 make it slightly better for gaming. If you need integrated graphics for troubleshooting or basic display tasks, this CPU covers you. However, if you plan to buy a dedicated GPU immediately and want to save money, the i5-12400F is a better value. However, if you value the higher clock speeds and UHD 770 graphics, the 12600 is a well-rounded investment that won't bottleneck mid-range GPUs. Pair it with a B660 motherboard for optimal cost efficiency and features.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-8700 or Intel Core i5-12600?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-8700 comes out ahead with a score of 9/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Do Intel Core i7-8700 and Intel Core i5-12600 use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-8700: Intel Socket 1151, Intel Core i5-12600: LGA 1700), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-12600 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-8700 (15,000), Intel Core i5-12600 (19,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.