CPU Comparison
Core i5-11320H vs Intel Core i5-12450H
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-11320H is a mobile processor that blurs the line between thin-and-light portability and enthusiast performance. Released in June 2021 as part of the Tiger Lake-H family, it is designed for thinner gaming laptops and creator devices. Unlike standard U-series chips, the 11320H packs a 28W TDP, allowing for higher sustained performance. It features 4 cores and 8 threads, built on Intel's 10nm SuperFin process. What makes this SKU particularly interesting is its integrated graphics; it boasts Intel Iris Xe graphics with 96 Execution Units, the highest configuration available for an i5 at the time. This makes it uniquely capable for a chip without a dedicated GPU. With a base clock of 2.5 GHz and a max turbo of 4.5 GHz, it delivers snappy single-threaded performance, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious creators and gamers.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Fast single-core performance makes everyday tasks feel instant.
8 cores provide smooth multitasking for daily laptop use.
Gaming
Impressive for integrated graphics; can play older AAA and eSports titles well.
Handles esports and mid-range gaming well when paired with a decent mobile GPU.
Virtualization
4 cores limit heavy VM workflows, but adequate for one or two instances.
Can run basic VMs but limited by mobile power constraints.
Efficiency
28W TDP is efficient for an H-series but runs warmer than U-series.
Good balance of performance and battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- GNA 2.0 for AI noise cancellation and background blur
- Basic CPU inference
- No dedicated AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- 96 EUs provide a noticeable step up over 80 EUs
- Can play GTA V, CS:GO, and Valorant easily
- Suitable for budget gaming laptops
- 4 P-cores handle games well
- E-cores manage background tasks
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Powerful 96EU Iris Xe graphics
- High 4.5 GHz turbo boost
- 28W TDP allows for sustained performance
- Supports PCIe 4.0
- Good single-core speed
Cons
- Only 4 cores and 8 threads
- No DDR5 support
- 10nm process is now outdated
- Locked multiplier
Pros
- Hybrid 8-core design
- Good single-core performance
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 4.0
- Excellent for budget gaming laptops
- Decent power efficiency
Cons
- Only 12MB of L3 cache
- Basic UHD integrated graphics
- Locked multiplier
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i5-11320H
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11375HRival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-11300HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1Rival
Mobile
- Intel Core i5-11400HAlt
6-core variant within the same generation for better multi-core performance.
- Intel Core i7-1165G7Alt
Lower TDP alternative with similar graphics if you want an ultrabook.
Newer Alder Lake chip with 8 cores for significantly better performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5625UAlt
More efficient and offers comparable multi-core performance.
Intel Core i5-12450H
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700URival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11800HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 6600HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-12500HRival
Mobile
Significantly better performance for heavy workloads.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 7 6800HAlt
Better integrated graphics and multi-core performance.
- Intel Core i5-11400HAlt
Older but cheaper alternative if on a strict budget.
Our Verdict on Each
A unique Tiger Lake chip that offers the best integrated graphics Intel had to offer, perfect for budget creators.
Best for: Budget creator or gaming laptops
Read the full reviewA solid entry-level mobile processor bringing hybrid architecture to budget gaming laptops.
Best for: If you are shopping for an entry-level gaming laptop, the Core i5-12450H provides excellent value. It offers the core benefits of Intel's 12th Gen hybrid architecture without the premium price tag. It pairs well with mid-range mobile GPUs like the RTX 3050 or 4050. However, if you plan to do heavy video editing or 3D rendering, you might want to look for a laptop with the i5-12500H or i7-12700H for better multi-core performance. For pure 1080p gaming and school work, this CPU is more than sufficient.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i5-11320H or Intel Core i5-12450H?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-12450H comes out ahead with a score of 8.2/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Core i5-11320H or Intel Core i5-12450H?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-12450H leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Core i5-11320H and Intel Core i5-12450H.
Which uses less power?
The Core i5-11320H has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i5-11320H (28 W), Intel Core i5-12450H (45 W).
Do Core i5-11320H and Intel Core i5-12450H use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i5-11320H: Intel BGA 1449, Intel Core i5-12450H: BGA 1744), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i5-12450H has the most cores. Core counts: Core i5-11320H (4 cores), Intel Core i5-12450H (8 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-12450H posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Core i5-11320H (0), Intel Core i5-12450H (15,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.