Intel Core i5-8500 Processor vs Intel Core i9-12900KS
The Intel Core i5-8500 Processor is the faster processor, scoring 83/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 82/100 for the Intel Core i9-12900KS — roughly 1% faster. That said, the gap is small, so the cheaper option is often the smarter buy.
Intel Core i5-8500 Processor
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Intel Core i9-12900KS
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Specs compared
| Spec | Intel Core i5-8500 Processor | Intel Core i9-12900KS |
|---|---|---|
| Gaming score | 83/100 | 82/100 |
| Cores / Threads | 6 / 6 | 16 / 24 |
| Boost clock | 4.10 GHz | 5.50 GHz |
| TDP | 65 W | 150 W |
| Socket | - | LGA1700 |
| MSRP | - | $449.00 |
Intel Core i5-8500 Processor vs Intel Core i9-12900KS: which should you buy?
The Intel Core i5-8500 Processor is the faster processor, scoring 83/100 on our gaming benchmark versus 82/100 for the Intel Core i9-12900KS — roughly 1% 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 i5-8500 Processor better than the Intel Core i9-12900KS?
The Intel Core i5-8500 Processor is faster for gaming, scoring 83/100 versus 82/100 for the Intel Core i9-12900KS (about 1% faster).
Should I buy the Intel Core i5-8500 Processor or the Intel Core i9-12900KS?
For raw gaming performance, choose the Intel Core i5-8500 Processor. If it costs notably more for only a small gain, the Intel Core i9-12900KS can be the better value. Check current prices before deciding.
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