CPU Comparison
Core i5-11500H vs Intel Core i5-12500H
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-11500H is a step-up mobile processor within the Tiger Lake-H series, designed to offer enhanced performance for demanding gaming and creator laptops. Launched in May 2021, this 10nm processor features 6 cores and 12 threads, but distinguishes itself with higher clock speeds, boasting a 2.4 GHz base and boosting up to 4.6 GHz. This makes it one of the fastest i5 mobile chips of its generation. With a base TDP of 35W configurable up to 45W, it is built for thicker chassis that can handle sustained performance loads. The chip comes with 12MB of Intel Smart Cache and 20 PCIe 4.0 lanes, ensuring robust bandwidth for dedicated GPUs and fast storage. Unlike lower-tier i5s, it also features the UHD Graphics 750 with Xe architecture, providing better integrated graphics performance. For users seeking near-i7 performance at an i5 price, the 11500H strikes an excellent balance.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles heavy multitasking and creator workloads with ease.
12 cores handle heavy multitasking and compiling easily.
Gaming
Excellent performance in modern titles, minimizing bottlenecks for mid-to-high end GPUs.
Excellent gaming performance when paired with mobile RTX GPUs.
Virtualization
Solid performance for running multiple VMs.
Good core count for running multiple VMs on a laptop.
Efficiency
Good efficiency, though it draws more power at max turbo.
Good balance of performance and battery life.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- AVX-512 support accelerates AI tasks
- Intel DL Boost for deep learning
- GNA 2.0 for voice processing
- Multi-core design speeds up data processing
- Good for local AI inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Minimizes bottlenecks for RTX 3060/3070 mobile GPUs
- High single-core boost for CPU-heavy games
- Smooth high-refresh-rate 1080p experience
- Strong single-core speed
- Good 1080p and 1440p performance
- E-cores manage background tasks
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- High 4.6 GHz turbo clock
- Superior UHD Graphics 750 (Xe 32 EUs)
- Supports PCIe 4.0
- Includes vPro support for business
Cons
- Locked multiplier
- High power draw under full load (45W)
- Soldered to motherboard
- Still limited to DDR4
Pros
- 12-core hybrid design
- Iris Xe 80EU graphics
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 4.0
- Excellent multi-core performance
- Good balance of power and efficiency
Cons
- Soldered to motherboard (BGA)
- Locked multiplier
- Can run hot under sustained load
- 95W turbo requires good laptop cooling
Competitors & Alternatives
Core i5-11500H
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-11800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headApple M1 ProRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-11400HAlt
A slightly cheaper option with lower clocks and basic UHD graphics.
Newer 12th gen with better overall efficiency.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 6600HAlt
A newer alternative with Zen 3+ architecture and DDR5 support.
Intel Core i5-12500H
- AMD Ryzen 7 6800HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-12700HRival
Mobile
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800HRival
Mobile
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-12450HRival
Mobile
Slightly higher base clock but otherwise very similar.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 6600HAlt
Budget AMD alternative with good efficiency.
Our Verdict on Each
A top-tier i5 mobile CPU offering excellent clock speeds and superior integrated graphics for creators.
Best for: The Intel Core i5-11500H is an excellent choice for users looking for a high-performance mobile processor without paying the premium of an i7. If you are considering a used or refurbished gaming laptop from 2021-2022, this processor offers exceptional value, delivering near top-tier single-core speeds that are highly beneficial for gaming. It is particularly attractive for content creators who can leverage the Xe-based UHD 750 integrated graphics for quick encodes and basic graphical tasks. However, buyers should ensure that the laptop's cooling system is adequate, as the 45W configurable TDP can generate significant heat under load. For new purchases, comparing it against newer 12th or 13th Gen i5s is advisable, as the newer generations offer better efficiency. Nonetheless, for a budget gaming rig or creator notebook, the 11500H remains a highly capable and cost-effective processor.
Read the full reviewThe definitive mid-range mobile CPU, offering an excellent blend of P-core speed and E-core multitasking.
Best for: If you are looking for a gaming or creator laptop in the mid-range market, the Core i5-12500H is a fantastic choice. Its 12-core architecture ensures it won't bottleneck modern mid-range mobile GPUs like the RTX 3060 or 4050. It is perfect for students and professionals who need a machine that can game well and handle heavy productivity tasks. When choosing a laptop with this CPU, verify that the manufacturer hasn't limited the power too heavily, as the 45 W base can be tuned down to 35 W in thinner chassis, affecting performance.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Core i5-11500H or Intel Core i5-12500H?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-12500H 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.
Which is faster for gaming, Core i5-11500H or Intel Core i5-12500H?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-12500H leads with a gaming performance score of 85/100 among Core i5-11500H and Intel Core i5-12500H.
Which uses less power?
The Core i5-11500H has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Core i5-11500H (35 W), Intel Core i5-12500H (45 W).
Do Core i5-11500H and Intel Core i5-12500H use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Core i5-11500H: Intel BGA 1787, Intel Core i5-12500H: BGA 1744), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i5-12500H has the most cores. Core counts: Core i5-11500H (6 cores), Intel Core i5-12500H (12 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-12500H posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-12500H (18,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.