Intel Core i3-12100F vs Intel Core i7-9700K
The Intel Core i7-9700K is the faster processor, scoring 36/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 35/100 for the Intel Core i3-12100F — roughly 3% faster. That said, the gap is small, so the cheaper option is often the smarter buy.
Intel Core i3-12100F
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Intel Core i7-9700K
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Specs compared
| Spec | Intel Core i3-12100F | Intel Core i7-9700K |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming score | 35/100 | 36/100 |
| Cores / Threads | 4 / 8 | 8 / 8 |
| Boost clock | 4.30 GHz | 4.90 GHz |
| TDP | 58 W | 95 W |
| Socket | LGA1700 | LGA1151 |
| MSRP | $89.00 | $139.00 |
Intel Core i3-12100F vs Intel Core i7-9700K: which should you buy?
The Intel Core i7-9700K is the faster processor, scoring 36/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 35/100 for the Intel Core i3-12100F — 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 i3-12100F better than the Intel Core i7-9700K?
The Intel Core i7-9700K is faster for gaming, scoring 36/100 versus 35/100 for the Intel Core i3-12100F (about 3% faster).
Should I buy the Intel Core i3-12100F or the Intel Core i7-9700K?
For raw gaming performance, choose the Intel Core i7-9700K. If it costs notably more for only a small gain, the Intel Core i3-12100F can be the better value. Check current prices before deciding.
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