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i5-14600K vs i7-12700K

Full specification comparison between the Intel Core i5-14600K (2023) and the Intel Core i7-12700K (2021).

Winner

i5-14600K

Intel High-end

83 / perf index
  • ~9% faster on average
  • More cores (14 vs 12)
  • Higher boost clock (5.3 vs 5.0 GHz)
  • Cheaper at launch ($319 vs $409)
  • Newer (2023 vs 2021)

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i7-12700K

Intel Mid-range

76 / perf index
  • Larger L3 cache (25 MB vs 24 MB)

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Verdict: The i5-14600K is around 9% faster than the i7-12700K on average — a modest edge you may notice in demanding titles, but not a generational leap.

At launch pricing, the i5-14600K offers more performance per dollar, and the i5-14600K is the more power-efficient chip.

Estimated performance

i5-14600K
83
i7-12700K
76

Estimated average 1080p gaming performance compiled from publicly available benchmark data. Individual games vary.

Specs side by side

Specificationi5-14600Ki7-12700K
FamilyRaptor Lake RefreshAlder Lake
SocketLGA1700LGA1700
Release year20232021
Est. gaming perf.
83
76
Est. multi-core perf.
57
52
Est. single-core perf.
87
81
Cores
14
12
Threads
20
20
Max boost clock
5.3 GHz
5.0 GHz
L3 cache
24 MB
25 MB
TDP (base)
125 W
125 W
Integrated graphicsUHD 770UHD 770
Launch MSRP
$319
$409

Green bars mark the better value in each row (for power and price, lower wins).

Frequently asked questions

Is the i5-14600K better than the i7-12700K?

Yes — based on aggregated benchmark data, the i5-14600K is about 9% faster than the i7-12700K on average.

How much faster is the i5-14600K than the i7-12700K?

Roughly 9% on average in gaming workloads. The gap varies by title, resolution and settings.

Which processor is better value?

Comparing launch prices, the i5-14600K delivers more performance per dollar. Check current street prices, as market pricing often shifts the value equation.

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