Quick Verdict
An excellent budget gaming CPU with high clock speeds and 20MB of cache, perfect for users who already own a dedicated GPU.
Overview
Launch
2022
Status
ActiveGeneration
12th Gen
Market
Desktop
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 Core i5-12490F offers 6 P-cores, 4.6 GHz boost clocks, and 20 MB of L3 cache, making it a hidden gem for budget gaming.
Specifications
Performance
Handles daily tasks easily but lacks E-cores for heavy multitasking.
Adequate for basic VMs but limited by 6 cores.
Delivers high framerates in modern titles when paired with a mid-range GPU.
Exceptional performance per watt at 65W base TDP.
- •High single-core speed
- •Large L3 cache benefits gaming
- •Requires discrete GPU
- •No dedicated AI hardware
- •Relies on CPU inference
Architecture
10nm
Process Node
Alder Lake-S
Codename
6C / 12T
Core Config
20 MB
L3 Cache
65 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The i5-12490F utilizes the Alder Lake-S architecture, specifically employing only Performance-cores (P-cores) based on the Golden Cove microarchitecture. Unlike the i5-12600K, it does not feature Efficient-cores (E-cores), making its core layout simpler and more traditional. The processor connects via the LGA 1700 socket and integrates 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes, a significant upgrade allowing future-proofing for next-generation graphics cards and NVMe storage. Memory support is dual, accommodating both DDR4 at 3200 MT/s and DDR5 at 4800 MT/s, providing flexibility for motherboard manufacturers and consumers. The cache hierarchy includes 80 KB of L1 and 1.25 MB of L2 per core, alongside a shared 20 MB L3 cache, which is larger than the 18 MB found on the i5-12500. Built on Intel's 10nm node, it balances power efficiency and clock speeds, hitting 4.6 GHz under turbo while staying within a 65 W base power limit, showcasing the efficiency of the node. The integrated graphics are disabled on this die.
CPU Design
6 P-Cores, 12 Threads. No E-Cores.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR4/DDR5 controller.
PCIe & I/O
20 PCIe 5.0 lanes directly from the CPU.
Overclocking
Multiplier locked, but BCLK overclocking is possible on certain motherboards.
- Higher IPC via Golden Cove
- DDR5 support
- PCIe 5.0 support
- Larger L3 cache
Key Highlights
- Excellent budget gaming performance
- 20 MB L3 cache
- Supports DDR5 and PCIe 5.0
- Low 65W TDP
- Great single-core speeds
- No integrated graphics
- Locked multiplier
- Limited availability outside specific regions
- Lacks E-cores for background tasks
History
The Core i5-12490F was introduced in early 2022 as a specialized SKU primarily aimed at the Chinese DIY market, though it saw limited availability globally through grey-market imports. Intel designed this processor to bridge the gap between the i5-12400F and the i5-12500, offering a unique combination of higher clock speeds and increased L3 cache compared to the 12400F, while maintaining the 65 W power envelope. Historically, Intel has occasionally launched region-specific processors to clear silicon or meet particular market demands, and the 12490F fits this pattern perfectly.
By disabling the integrated graphics and utilizing a fully enabled 6-core P-cluster with 20 MB of L3 cache, Intel maximized the value for pure gamers. Its release accompanied the broader Alder Lake launch, reinforcing Intel's strategy to cater to every conceivable price point. It quickly gained a cult following among enthusiasts seeking hidden gems for budget gaming builds.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Higher IPC via Golden Cove
- DDR5 support
- PCIe 5.0 support
- Larger L3 cache
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
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.
Avoid if…
- You need integrated graphics for troubleshooting
- You do heavy multi-threaded rendering
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
Originally targeted primarily at the Chinese market.
Features more L3 cache than the i5-12500.
Omits E-cores entirely unlike other 12th gen i5s.
Requires a discrete GPU to function.
Based on the same Alder Lake-S die as higher-end models.
Supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory.
Uses the LGA 1700 socket.
Can boost up to 4.6 GHz on a 65W TDP.
Built on Intel's Intel 7 (10nm) process.
Often considered a 'hidden gem' by budget builders.
People Also Ask
Is the i5-12490F good for gaming?
Yes, it offers excellent value for 1080p gaming.
Does the i5-12490F have integrated graphics?
No, it requires a dedicated graphics card.
What is the difference between i5-12400F and i5-12490F?
The 12490F has higher clock speeds and 20MB of L3 cache vs 18MB.
Can you overclock the i5-12490F?
No, the multiplier is locked, but BCLK overclocking is possible.
What socket does the i5-12490F use?
It uses the Intel LGA 1700 socket.
Does the i5-12490F support DDR5?
Yes, it supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory.
What is the TDP of the i5-12490F?
It has a base TDP of 65 Watts.
Does the i5-12490F come with a cooler?
It typically does not include a stock cooler.
Is the i5-12490F unlocked?
No, it is not an unlocked processor.
What PCIe version does the i5-12490F support?
It supports PCIe 5.0 with 20 lanes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the i5-12490F support PCIe 5.0?
Yes, it features 20 PCIe 5.0 lanes.
Can I use DDR4 memory with this CPU?
Yes, it supports both DDR4 and DDR5 depending on the motherboard.
What is the max turbo frequency?
The max turbo frequency is 4.6 GHz.
Is the i5-12490F multiplier unlocked?
No, the multiplier is locked.
How many cores does the i5-12490F have?
It has 6 Performance cores and 0 Efficient cores.
What is the L3 cache size?
It features a 20 MB shared L3 cache.
Does it support ECC memory?
No, it does not support ECC memory.
What chipsets are compatible?
Z690, H670, B660, and H610 chipsets.
Is it good for video editing?
It can handle light editing, but lacks E-cores for heavy workloads.
Does it have VT-d virtualization support?
Yes, it supports VT-x and VT-d.