CPU Comparison
Intel Core i5-12490F vs Intel Core i5-12500
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i5-12490F is a unique desktop processor tailored for the Asian market, specifically focusing on budget-conscious gamers and system builders who do not require integrated graphics. Released in 2022 as part of the 12th Generation Alder Lake-S family, this six-core, twelve-thread CPU omits the E-cores found in higher-end models, relying purely on Golden Cove P-cores. It features a base frequency of 3.0 GHz and a maximum turbo of 4.6 GHz, operating within a strict 65 W TDP. Built on Intel's 10 nm process, it fits into the LGA 1700 socket, offering seamless compatibility with both DDR4 and DDR5 memory platforms. The processor includes 20 MB of L3 cache, providing a slight edge over standard non-K i5 variants in cache-sensitive applications. As an F SKU, it lacks integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated GPU, but delivers excellent raw compute performance for its price bracket.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles daily tasks easily but lacks E-cores for heavy multitasking.
Smooth multitasking for office and web applications.
Gaming
Delivers high framerates in modern titles when paired with a mid-range GPU.
Great gaming performance, similar to 12490F but with iGPU.
Virtualization
Adequate for basic VMs but limited by 6 cores.
Good for basic virtualization needs.
Efficiency
Exceptional performance per watt at 65W base TDP.
Excellent performance per watt.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Relies on CPU inference
- CPU-based inference only
- No dedicated AI accelerators
Content Creation
Gaming
- High single-core speed
- Large L3 cache benefits gaming
- Requires discrete GPU
- Solid 1080p framerates
- UHD 770 serves as a backup
- High boost clocks
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Excellent budget gaming performance
- 20 MB L3 cache
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0
- Low 65W TDP
- Great single-core speeds
Cons
- No integrated graphics
- Locked multiplier
- Limited availability outside specific regions
- Lacks E-cores for background tasks
Pros
- Integrated UHD 770 graphics
- Strong single-core performance
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0
- 65W base TDP
- Good value for money
Cons
- No E-cores
- Locked multiplier
- Stock cooler may struggle under sustained load
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i5-12490F
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400FRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-11400FRival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XRival
Desktop
Includes integrated graphics.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Mature platform with strong gaming performance.
Better multi-core performance with E-cores.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 7600Alt
Newer AM5 platform with better upgrade path.
Intel Core i5-12500
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600GRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-11400Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700GRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Better value if you already own a GPU.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Strong competitor with mature platform.
Better multi-core and overclocking capabilities.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 7600Alt
Next-gen AM5 platform option.
Our Verdict on Each
An excellent budget gaming CPU with high clock speeds and 20MB of cache, perfect for users who already own a dedicated GPU.
Best for: The Core i5-12490F is an excellent buy if you are building a budget gaming rig and can find it at a price lower than the i5-12400F or i5-12500. Because it lacks integrated graphics, you must pair it with a dedicated GPU. The higher clock speeds and 20 MB of L3 cache give it a slight edge in gaming over the 12400F. However, if the price is identical to the 12500, the 12500 might be preferable due to its included UHD 770 graphics. Ensure you pair it with a B660 or Z690 board to maximize value and features.
Read the full reviewA well-rounded processor offering excellent price-to-performance with the added safety net of integrated graphics.
Best for: The Core i5-12500 is a stellar choice for mainstream users who want a capable system without paying the K-series premium. It provides excellent single-core performance for gaming and handles everyday productivity with ease. The integrated graphics mean you can build a system now and add a dedicated GPU later. If you strictly play games and already own a GPU, the i5-12400F might save you money. However, if you value the higher clock speeds and UHD 770 graphics, the 12500 is a well-rounded investment that won't bottleneck mid-range GPUs. Pair it with a B660 motherboard for optimal cost efficiency.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i5-12490F or Intel Core i5-12500?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i5-12500 comes out ahead with a score of 8.7/10. 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, Intel Core i5-12490F or Intel Core i5-12500?
For gaming, the Intel Core i5-12500 leads with a gaming performance score of 86/100 among Intel Core i5-12490F and Intel Core i5-12500.
Do Intel Core i5-12490F and Intel Core i5-12500 use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the LGA 1700 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i5-12500 posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i5-12490F (18,000), Intel Core i5-12500 (18,500). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.