i9-12900K vs Ultra 5 245K
Full specification comparison between the Intel Core i9-12900K (2021) and the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K (2024).
Ultra 5 245K
Intel High-end
- ✓ Cheaper at launch ($309 vs $589)
- ✓ Newer (2024 vs 2021)
- ✓ Better performance per dollar
- ✓ More power-efficient
Verdict: The Ultra 5 245K and i9-12900K deliver essentially the same level of performance — the difference is within a few percent and won't be noticeable in real use. The decision comes down to price, power draw and features.
For gaming the Ultra 5 245K leads, but the i9-12900K pulls ahead in heavily multi-threaded work like rendering, compiling and video export thanks to its stronger multi-core throughput.
Note they use different platforms (LGA1851 vs LGA1700), so this is a motherboard decision too, not just a CPU swap.
At launch pricing, the Ultra 5 245K offers more performance per dollar, and the Ultra 5 245K is the more power-efficient chip.
Estimated performance
Estimated average 1080p gaming performance compiled from publicly available benchmark data. Individual games vary.
Specs side by side
| Specification | i9-12900K | Ultra 5 245K |
|---|---|---|
| Family | Alder Lake | Arrow Lake |
| Socket | LGA1700 | LGA1851 |
| Release year | 2021 | 2024 |
| Est. gaming perf. | ||
| Est. multi-core perf. | ||
| Est. single-core perf. | ||
| Cores | ||
| Threads | ||
| Max boost clock | ||
| L3 cache | ||
| TDP (base) | ||
| Integrated graphics | UHD 770 | Intel Graphics |
| Launch MSRP |
Green bars mark the better value in each row (for power and price, lower wins).
Frequently asked questions
Is the Ultra 5 245K better than the i9-12900K?
They perform almost identically (within ~3%). Choose based on price, power consumption and platform rather than raw speed.
How much faster is the Ultra 5 245K than the i9-12900K?
Roughly 3% on average in gaming workloads. The gap varies by title, resolution and settings.
Which processor is better value?
Comparing launch prices, the Ultra 5 245K delivers more performance per dollar. Check current street prices, as market pricing often shifts the value equation.