Intel Core i3-12100 vs Intel Core i5-10600
The Intel Core i5-10600 is the faster processor, scoring 36/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 35/100 for the Intel Core i3-12100 — roughly 3% faster. That said, the gap is small, so the cheaper option is often the smarter buy.
Intel Core i3-12100
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Intel Core i5-10600
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Specs compared
| Spec | Intel Core i3-12100 | Intel Core i5-10600 |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming score | 35/100 | 36/100 |
| Cores / Threads | 4 / 8 | 6 / 12 |
| Boost clock | 4.30 GHz | 4.80 GHz |
| TDP | 60 W | 65 W |
| Socket | LGA1700 | LGA1200 |
| MSRP | $109.00 | $139.00 |
Intel Core i3-12100 vs Intel Core i5-10600: which should you buy?
The Intel Core i5-10600 is the faster processor, scoring 36/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 35/100 for the Intel Core i3-12100 — roughly 3% faster. That said, the gap is small, so the cheaper option is often the smarter buy. For your specific games and resolution, run both through our comparison tool, check pairing with the bottleneck calculator, or see where each lands on the tier list.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Intel Core i3-12100 better than the Intel Core i5-10600?
The Intel Core i5-10600 is faster for gaming, scoring 36/100 versus 35/100 for the Intel Core i3-12100 (about 3% faster).
Should I buy the Intel Core i3-12100 or the Intel Core i5-10600?
For raw gaming performance, choose the Intel Core i5-10600. If it costs notably more for only a small gain, the Intel Core i3-12100 can be the better value. Check current prices before deciding.
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.