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Intel Core i5 12500 Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£210
  • Avg. price in US: ~$220
  • PassMark benchmark result: 19732
  • N. of physical cores: 6
  • CPU boost clock speed: 4.6 GHz

Intel Core i5 12500 review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

6.4

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

6.1

Technical Score

10.0%

8.8

User score

Good
6.1

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

5.3

Performance

18.0%

7.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

8.1

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.8

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.6

Platform

1.0%

7.5

Integrated Graphics

Good
8.8

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.3

User reviews

30.0%

7.6

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(99)
amazon
4.7
(78)
amazon
3.0
(6)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Excellent
  • 5.8
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.8

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    6.7

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    6.4

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    3.5

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

  • 3.8
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    4.4

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    4.0

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    3.5

    L3 cache

  • intel-core-i5-12500
  • intel-core-i5-12500
  • intel-core-i5-12500
  • intel-core-i5-12500
  • intel-core-i5-12500
intel-core-i5-12500
intel-core-i5-12500
intel-core-i5-12500
intel-core-i5-12500
intel-core-i5-12500

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i5-12500 is a versatile mid-range desktop processor based on the Alder Lake architecture, featuring 6 performance cores and 12 threads with a 3.0 GHz base frequency and a 4.6 GHz max turbo boost. Built on the Intel 7 process (10nm), it includes 18 MB of Intel Smart Cache, a 65W base power draw, and supports both DDR4-3200 and DDR5-4800 memory alongside PCIe 5.0 and 4.0. Its main advantages include the integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 with dual codec engines for better streaming/transcoding and a slight clock speed bump over the popular i5-12400. However, its primary drawbacks are the lack of efficiency (E-cores) found in higher-end 12th Gen models and a performance-to-price ratio that often makes it less compelling than the cheaper i5-12400 for users with dedicated graphics cards.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i5 12500

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

5.3

Performance

18.0%

7.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

8.1

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.8

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.6

Platform

1.0%

7.5

Integrated Graphics

6.1
Intel Core i5 12500 has a technical score of 6.13 points, which is higher than that of 66.2% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

9.3

User reviews

30.0%

7.6

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(99)
amazon
4.7
(78)
amazon
3.0
(6)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

8.8
Intel Core i5 12500 has a user score of 8.79 points, which is higher than that of 87.1% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
7.6
Intel Core i5 12500 has a popularity of 7.6 points, which is higher than 85.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.4

Price

7.3
Intel Core i5 12500 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.3 points, which is higher than 79.4% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

desktop
Intel Core i5 12500 belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

LGA1700
Intel Core i5 12500 uses the LGA1700 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 86.1% of processors and equal to that of 7.4% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

Z790, H770, B760, Z690, H670, B660, H610, Q670, W680
Intel Core i5 12500 supports Z790, H770, B760, Z690, H670, B660, H610, Q670, W680 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 86.2% of processors and equal to that of 2.2% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
Intel Core i5 12500 uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

6
Intel Core i5 12500 has 6 CPU cores, which is more than 49.9% of processors and equal to 13.4% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

12
Intel Core i5 12500 offers 12 CPU threads, which is more than 55.1% of processors and equal to 14.1% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

2
Intel Core i5 12500 offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

4.6 GHz
Intel Core i5 12500 reaches a boost clock of 4.6 GHz which is higher than that of 62.4% of processors and equal to that of 4.5% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

6 x 3.0 GHz
Intel Core i5 12500 has a base clock of 6x3.0 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

10 nm
Intel Core i5 12500 uses a 10 nm process node, which is more advanced than that of 52.3% of processors and equal to that of 19.1% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel 7
Intel Core i5 12500 is built on the Intel 7 foundry process, which is more advanced than that of 66.2% of processors and equal to that of 14.9% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

18 MB
Intel Core i5 12500 has an L3 cache of 18 MB which is larger than that of 77.2% of processors and equal to that of 2% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

7.5 MB
Intel Core i5 12500 has an L2 cache of 7.5 MB which is larger than that of 72.6% of processors and equal to that of 0.8% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

480 KB
Intel Core i5 12500 has an L1 cache of 480 KB which is larger than that of 61.6% of processors and equal to that of 1.9% of processors.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4/DDR5
Intel Core i5 12500 supports DDR DDR4/DDR5, which is newer than that of 79.1% of processors and equal to that of 9.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

3,200 MHz
Intel Core i5 12500 supports memory speeds up to 3,200 MHz, which is higher than that of 51.5% of processors and equal to 8.3% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR5-4800 MHz
Intel Core i5 12500 supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR5-4,800 MHz, which is higher than that of 66.5% of processors and equal to 5.6% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

?
Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

128 GB
Intel Core i5 12500 supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 61.9% of processors and equal to 21.4% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Intel Core i5 12500 includes integrated graphics. 87.6% include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel UHD Graphics 770
Intel Core i5 12500 uses the Intel UHD Graphics 770 integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 56.9% and equal to that in 4.9%.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

32
Intel Core i5 12500 has 32 GPU execution units, which is more than 70.8% of processors and equal to 9.9% of processors.
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

300 MHz
Intel Core i5 12500 has an integrated GPU clock of 300 MHz which is lower than that of 57% of processors and equal to that of 38.7% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

AV1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode/encode)
Intel Core i5 12500 supports AV1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode/encode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 52.7% of processors and equal to 0.1% of processors.
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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

65 W
Intel Core i5 12500 has a TDP of 65 W which is higher than that of 70% of processors and equal to that of 16.1% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

65 W
Intel Core i5 12500 has a base power of 65 W which is higher than that of 70.3% of processors and equal to that of 16.4% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

117 W
Intel Core i5 12500 has a boost power of 117 W which is higher than that of 78.2% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

28 seconds
Intel Core i5 12500 has a turbo duration of 28 seconds which is longer than that of 3.8% of processors and equal to that of 85% of processors.
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

no
Intel Core i5 12500 does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i5 12500 vs the average processor

  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5.0 + 4.0 vs 3.0).
    What it is: The newest PCIe generation the processor can use directly for graphics cards, SSDs, and other high-speed expansion devices.
    When it matters: When you want support for newer GPUs or SSDs, or more bandwidth for high-speed expansion hardware.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 4.0

    Intel Core i5 12500 supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5.0 + 4.0 vs 3.0).5.0 + 4.0 vs 3.0
  • 47% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,650 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,650 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.3,650 vs 2,483
  • 57.7% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,320 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,320 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.2,320 vs 1,471
  • 78.2% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (4,960 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 score that reflects how well the processor handles long, heavy rendering workloads across many cores.
    When it matters: When you care about sustained multi-core performance in rendering, compiling, heavy creation work, or productivity workloads that use many threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4700

    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (4,960 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.4,960 vs 2,783
  • 2.5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 12500 has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    Intel Core i5 12500 has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.1.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i5 12500 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
    What it is: A stock CPU cooler is included in the box with the processor.
    When it matters: When total build cost matters and you need to know whether separate cooling must be bought right away.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 12500 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
  • 75% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i5 12500 has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (3 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=2 MB/core

    Intel Core i5 12500 has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (3 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.3 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core
  • 88.4% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9,029 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9,029 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.9,029 vs 4,793
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i5 12500 uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1700 vs FP2).
  • 47% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,650 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 57.7% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,320 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 78.2% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (4,960 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 88.4% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (9,029 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 87.3% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (19,732 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 7% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (4.6 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i5 12500 has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 2 wider front-end design
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher front-end width than the average processor (6 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
  • 2.5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core i5 12500 has more L2 cache per core than the average processor (1.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 75% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i5 12500 has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (3 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 3x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (7.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i5 12500 uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Alder Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • 2.25x larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (18 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • More advanced foundry
    Intel Core i5 12500 uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 7 vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 16.7% smaller process node
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a lower process node than the average processor (10 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5.0 + 4.0 vs 3.0).
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5 vs DDR4).
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 4 more PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i5 12500 has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (20 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • 67.7% higher memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (76.8 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i5 12500 has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • Supports ECC memory
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports ECC memory, the average processor does not.
  • 1 more supported displays
    Intel Core i5 12500 has more supported displays than the average processor (4 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.
  • Includes stock cooler
    Intel Core i5 12500 includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.

Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode/encode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
  • 82.8% higher boost power
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (117 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i5 12500 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 82.8% higher boost power
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (117 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
    What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
    When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <50 W

    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (117 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.117 W vs 64 W
  • 44.4% higher base power
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher base power draw than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.65 W vs 45 W
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i5 12500 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
    What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
    When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i5 12500 does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
    What it is: The supported CPU instruction sets and extensions.
    When it matters: When you run software that depends on specific CPU instructions.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i5 12500 supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i5 12500 supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode/encode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
    What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
    When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i5 12500 supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (AV1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode/encode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).AV1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode/encode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)
  • 44.4% higher TDP
    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
    When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i5 12500 has a higher TDP than the average processor (65 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.65 W vs 45 W
Total
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Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i5 12500 and other processors

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
99 Reviews
amazon
4.7
78 Reviews
amazon
3.0
6 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i5 12500?

  • Improved integrated graphics (UHD 770) over the i5-12400 (UHD 730), making it better for users without a dedicated GPU
  • Strong single-core performance that competes well with higher-end CPUs in gaming and 1080p tasks
  • Excellent power efficiency with a 65W TDP, allowing it to run cool even with standard cooling solutions
  • Support for both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, offering flexibility for budget or future-proof builds
  • Includes a stock cooler (Laminar RM1) in the box, saving on additional build costs

What customers dislike about Intel Core i5 12500?

  • Marginal performance gains (often only 1-2%) over the cheaper i5-12400 in most CPU-bound workloads
  • Locked multiplier prevents traditional overclocking, limiting potential for enthusiast performance tuning
  • Price-to-performance ratio is often considered poor if the cost is significantly higher than the i5-12400
  • Lacks the efficiency cores (E-cores) found in higher-tier 12th Gen models like the i5-12600K
  • Integrated graphics are still insufficient for demanding AAA gaming at high settings

Expert reviews

C
cpubenchmark.net
15/05/2026
Intel Core i5-12500 - CPU Benchmarks Would you like to see performance comparisons between the i5-12500 and the more popular i5-12400 to determine if...

The Intel Core i5-12500 is a 12th Gen "Alder Lake" 6-core/12-thread processor featuring 18 MB L3 cache, a 3.0 GHz base clock (up to 4.6 GHz boost), and a 65W TDP. Key advantages include its superior integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 and dual codec engines, along with support for DDR5 and PCIe Gen 5. However, as a "locked" CPU, it lacks overclocking capabilities, and its minor...Read more

C
computerbase.de
04/02/2022
Core i5-12400 and i5-12500 Review: Conclusion and Recommendation

The Intel Core i5-12400 and 12500, reviewed by ComputerBase, utilize six "Golden Cove" Performance cores, offering exceptional IPC gains and consistent, high-efficiency gaming performance across Windows 10 and 11, surpassing previous-generation flagship processors. Positioned as "value kings," these CPUs provide excellent price-to-performance in gaming, with the i5-12500 providing a...Read more

(Translated)Show original
C
computerbase.de
04/02/2022
Intel Core i5-12400 and Core i5-12500 Review - ComputerBase

The ComputerBase review identifies the Intel Core i5-12400 and i5-12500 as top-tier middle-class processors for 2022, utilizing six "Golden Cove" P-cores without efficiency cores to deliver significant performance gains. These CPUs, especially efficient with a 65W-80W load, often match or exceed the Ryzen 5 5600X in gaming, while offering support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5. While the...Read more

(Translated)Show original
F
forum.lesnumeriques.com
02/04/2022
Intel Core i5-12500 CPU: Versatile and Energy-Efficient

The Intel Core i5-12500 is a 6-core/12-thread Alder Lake processor (3.0-4.6 GHz) highlighted by Les Numériques for its versatility and upgraded Intel UHD Graphics 770, which features superior hardware-accelerated video decoding. It operates with high energy efficiency at 65W TDP, requiring less demanding cooling while providing robust multi-threaded performance for productivity and...Read more

(Translated)Show original
L
lesnumeriques.com
02/04/2022
Intel Core i5-12500 CPU Review: Versatile and Energy-Efficient

According to Les Numériques, the Intel Core i5-12500 is a versatile, 6-core/12-thread processor offering strong, balanced performance for gaming and productivity while remaining highly energy-efficient and easy to cool. The chip supports modern standards including DDR5, PCIe 5.0, and features the upgraded UHD Graphics 770, providing better integrated graphical capability than...Read more

(Translated)Show original
V
valid.x86.fr
30/03/2026
CPU-Z Benchmark for Intel Core i5-12500 (12T): Do you need benchmarks comparing this model specifically against the i5-12400 or i5-12600?

The AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D acts as an efficient, lower-cost alternative to the 5800X3D, focusing on gaming performance through 96MB of L3 cache, with single-core scores around 540–560 and multi-threaded scores of 5,700–5,900. It offers 90–94% of the 5800X3D's performance at a 20–25% lower cost, making it an excellent value for late-stage AM4 platform upgrades with improved 1% low frame...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hwupgrade.it
07/04/2022
Ryzen 5 5500, 5600 and Ryzen 7 5700X: AMD's answer to Intel Alder Lake CPUs

HWUpgrade.it reviews AMD's mid-range "Zen 3" expansion—the Ryzen 5 5500, 5600, and Ryzen 7 5700X—positioning them as efficient 65W alternatives to Intel Alder Lake. The Ryzen 5 5600 and 5700X utilize full Vermeer architecture for strong gaming and productivity, while the 5500 uses "Cezanne" silicon with halved L3 cache and no PCIe 4.0. Pros include excellent power efficiency and...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
gamecomputers.nl
15/05/2026
Intel Core i5 12500 Gaming PC - Performance and Review

The Intel Core i5-12500 is a 6-core, 12-thread 12th Gen "Alder Lake" processor offering a balanced, power-efficient option (65W TDP) for mid-range gaming and productivity, featuring a 3.0 GHz base and 4.6 GHz boost clock. A primary advantage over the i5-12400 is the superior Intel UHD Graphics 770, which provides better performance and media capabilities for users without a discrete...Read more

(Translated)Show original
T
techgaming.nl
04/01/2022
Intel Core i5-12400 Review (Including comparison with i5-12500)

The Intel Core i5-12400 is a budget-friendly, six-core/12-thread Alder Lake-S processor that delivers exceptional 1080p and 1440p gaming performance without the high cost of enthusiast-level chips. It features only Performance-cores (P-cores) and operates with high efficiency. The review praises its superior price-to-performance ratio, cool operating temperatures, and excellent...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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