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Intel Core i9 12900HX Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£540
  • Avg. price in US: ~$610
  • PassMark benchmark result: 33179
  • N. of physical cores: 16
  • CPU boost clock speed: 5.0 GHz

Intel Core i9 12900HX review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

7.4

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%

7.4

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Very good
7.4

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%

7.1

Performance

18.0%

8.1

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

8.1

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

5.7

Power & Thermal

4.0%

8.3

Platform

1.0%

7.5

Integrated Graphics

Very good
?

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%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 6.9
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.1

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    7.3

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    7.6

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    5.2

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    6.7

    N. of physical cores

  • 6.6
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    6.6

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    6.7

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    7.6

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    5.2

    L3 cache

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Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £540

Best rankings

?

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

Verdict

The Intel Core i9-12900HX is a flagship 12th Gen high-performance mobile processor based on the Alder Lake architecture, featuring 16 cores (8 Performance and 8 Efficient) and 24 threads with a max turbo frequency of 5.0 GHz. Key specifications include 30 MB of Intel Smart Cache, support for DDR5-4800 or DDR4-3200 memory up to 128 GB, and 20 PCIe lanes (including PCIe 5.0 support). Main pros include desktop-class multi-threaded performance, an unlocked multiplier for overclocking, and superior bandwidth for professional creative workloads and high-end gaming. However, its significant power demands—with a base power of 55W and a max turbo power of 157W—result in high thermal output requiring robust cooling solutions, and it lacks vPro or ECC memory support found in its workstation-focused sibling, the i9-12950HX.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i9 12900HX

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%

?

Performance

18.0%

?

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

?

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

?

Power & Thermal

4.0%

?

Platform

1.0%

?

Integrated Graphics

7.4
Intel Core i9 12900HX has a technical score of 7.36 points, which is higher than that of 90.3% 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%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
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.
1.0
Intel Core i9 12900HX has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% 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%

7.4

Overall score

40.0%

7.7

Price

7.5
Intel Core i9 12900HX has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.5 points, which is higher than 85.4% 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

mobile
Intel Core i9 12900HX belongs to the mobile processor class, which is more advanced than that of 7.3% of processors and equal to that of 48.6% 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

FCBGA1964
Intel Core i9 12900HX uses the FCBGA1964 CPU socket, which is older than that of 67.4% of processors and equal to that of 1.6% 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

HM670, WM690
Intel Core i9 12900HX supports HM670, WM690 chipsets, which is narrower compatibility than 63.4% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% 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 i9 12900HX 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+

16
Intel Core i9 12900HX has 16 CPU cores, which is more than 91.5% of processors and equal to 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+

24
Intel Core i9 12900HX offers 24 CPU threads, which is more than 90.3% of processors and equal to 4% 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

?
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

5.0 GHz
Intel Core i9 12900HX reaches a boost clock of 5.0 GHz which is higher than that of 80.3% of processors and equal to that of 5.7% 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

8 x 2.3 GHz & 8 x 1.7 GHz
Intel Core i9 12900HX has a base clock of 8x2.3 GHz & 8x1.7 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 i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX 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

30 MB
Intel Core i9 12900HX has an L3 cache of 30 MB which is larger than that of 88.1% of processors and equal to that of 1.5% 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

14 MB
Intel Core i9 12900HX has an L2 cache of 14 MB which is larger than that of 87.5% of processors and equal to that of 2.2% 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

1,433.6 KB
Intel Core i9 12900HX has an L1 cache of 1433.6 KB which is larger than that of 94.3% of processors and equal to that of 0.3% 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 i9 12900HX 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

4,800 MHz
Intel Core i9 12900HX supports memory speeds up to 4800 MHz, which is higher than that of 66.4% of processors and equal to 5.6% 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 i9 12900HX supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR5-4800 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 i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX includes integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors 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 i9 12900HX uses the Intel UHD Graphics 770 integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 56.9% of processors and equal to that in 4.9% of processors.
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 i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX 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

55 W
Intel Core i9 12900HX has a TDP of 55 W which is higher than that of 63.9% of processors and equal to that of 4.2% 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

55 W
Intel Core i9 12900HX has a base power of 55 W which is higher than that of 64.1% of processors and equal to that of 4.1% 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

157 W
Intel Core i9 12900HX has a boost power of 157 W which is higher than that of 87.1% of processors and equal to that of 2.5% 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

?
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

yes
Intel Core i9 12900HX supports configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
cTDP: 45-55 W
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Intel Core i9 12900HX vs the average processor

  • 3.09x better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (8,602 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 i9 12900HX has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (8,602 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.8,602 vs 2,783
  • 10 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has more CPU cores than the average processor (16 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU 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+

    Intel Core i9 12900HX has more CPU cores than the average processor (16 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.16 vs 6
  • 3.02x higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (14,457 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 i9 12900HX has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (14,457 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.14,457 vs 4,793
  • 3.15x higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (33,179 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (33,179 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.33,179 vs 10,532.5
  • 16 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has more CPU threads than the average processor (24 vs 8). The average processor has 8 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+

    Intel Core i9 12900HX has more CPU threads than the average processor (24 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.24 vs 8
  • 51.1% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,753 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 i9 12900HX has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,753 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.3,753 vs 2,483
  • 71.1% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,517 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 i9 12900HX has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,517 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.2,517 vs 1,471
  • Newer PCIe version
    Intel Core i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5.0 + 4.0 vs 3.0).5.0 + 4.0 vs 3.0
  • Broader instruction support
    Intel Core i9 12900HX supports a broader instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA, CLMUL, BMI1, BMI2, ABM, ADX vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • Supports HMP
    Intel Core i9 12900HX supports HMP, the average processor does not.
  • 3.09x better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (8,602 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 3.02x higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (14,457 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 10 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has more CPU cores than the average processor (16 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 3.15x higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (33,179 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 16 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has more CPU threads than the average processor (24 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 51.1% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,753 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 71.1% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (2,517 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 52.5% higher Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (738 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 16.3% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 2 wider front-end design
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher front-end width than the average processor (6 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
  • 5.6x larger L2 cache
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher L2 cache than the average processor (14 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 3.75x larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (30 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 2.5x more L2 per core
    Intel Core i9 12900HX 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.
  • Uses big.LITTLE design
    Intel Core i9 12900HX uses a big.LITTLE design, the average processor does not.
  • 3.73x larger L1 cache
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (1,433.6 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i9 12900HX uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Alder Lake vs Kaby Lake).
  • More advanced foundry
    Intel Core i9 12900HX uses a more advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 7 vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 16.7% smaller process node
    Intel Core i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX supports a newer PCIe version than the average processor (5.0 + 4.0 vs 3.0).
  • Newer DDR support
    Intel Core i9 12900HX supports a newer DDR generation than the average processor (DDR4/DDR5 vs DDR4).
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i9 12900HX supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 4 more PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
  • 63.7% higher memory speed
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher maximum memory speed than the average processor (4,800 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 1 more supported displays
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has more supported displays than the average processor (4 vs 3). The average processor supports 3 displays.

Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Integrated Graphics
  • 60.3% slower classroom rendering
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (314.6 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
  • 20.8% larger die size
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher die size than the average processor (215 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i9 12900HX 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)).
  • 2.45x higher boost power
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (157 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 22.2% higher base power
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher base power draw than the average processor (55 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 22.2% higher TDP
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher TDP than the average processor (55 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • 2.45x higher boost power
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (157 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 i9 12900HX has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (157 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.157 W vs 64 W
  • 60.3% slower classroom rendering
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (314.6 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the Classroom scene, used to show how quickly the processor can complete a demanding rendering workload.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >1500

    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (314.6 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.314.6 vs 791.745
  • 20.8% larger die size
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher die size than the average processor (215 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
    What it is: The physical area of the processor die, usually measured in square millimeters.
    When it matters: When you are comparing chip scale, packaging density, or broader design differences rather than direct user-visible performance.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <150 mm²

    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher die size than the average processor (215 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².215 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 2.16x more expensive
    Intel Core i9 12900HX is more expensive than the average processor (£540 vs £250).
    Intel Core i9 12900HX is more expensive than the average processor (£540 vs £250).£540 vs £250
  • Narrower media codec support
    Intel Core i9 12900HX 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 i9 12900HX 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)
  • 22.2% higher base power
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher base power draw than the average processor (55 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 i9 12900HX has a higher base power draw than the average processor (55 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.55 W vs 45 W
  • 22.2% higher TDP
    Intel Core i9 12900HX has a higher TDP than the average processor (55 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 i9 12900HX has a higher TDP than the average processor (55 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.55 W vs 45 W
Total
Overall
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Integrated Graphics
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i9 12900HX and other processors

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Intel Core i9 12900HX?

  • Exceptional multi-threaded performance that rivals desktop-class CPUs
  • Unlocked multiplier allows for easy overclocking and performance tuning
  • Support for modern standards including DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0
  • Ideal for heavy-duty workloads like 4K video editing, 3D rendering, and professional multitasking
  • Higher core and thread count (16 cores, 24 threads) compared to standard H-series mobile chips

What customers dislike about Intel Core i9 12900HX?

  • Extremely high power consumption, reaching up to 157W under turbo boost
  • Significant heat output requires bulky and expensive cooling solutions
  • Poor battery life, often lasting only 1-1.5 hours during intensive tasks
  • Performance is heavily dependent on the laptop's thermal and power limits; it can underperform in thinner chassis
  • Laptops featuring this processor are typically very expensive and heavy ('luggable' rather than portable)

Expert reviews

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windowscentral.com
08/08/2022
Intel Core i9-12900HX review: Narrowing the gap between mobile and desktop

The Intel Core i9-12900HX, reviewed by Windows Central, is a 12th Gen Alder Lake processor featuring 16 cores (8P/8E) and 24 threads designed to narrow the performance gap between laptops and high-end desktops. It is aimed at workstations and gaming rigs, offering a roughly 27% increase in multi-threaded performance over its predecessor, the i9-11980HK. Key pros include exceptional...Read more

T
tomshardware.com
21/07/2022
MSI Titan GT77 Review: A Core i9-12900HX Tank

The MSI Titan GT77 is a massive, high-performance "tank" delivering desktop-level speed with its Core i9-12900HX and RTX 3080 Ti, featuring exceptional internal expandability with four RAM and four M.2 SSD slots. While boasting strong multi-core performance and a decent 6-hour battery life, the machine faces cons such as a high $5,000 price point, a heavy 7.28-pound plastic chassis,...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
09/07/2022
Testing Intel's Core i9 HX: Is This Laptop CPU an 'Alder Lake' Juggernaut?

Intel's 12th Generation "Alder Lake" Core HX-series, featuring the 16-core i9-12900HX, bridges the gap between desktop and laptop performance with a 55-watt base and 157-watt max turbo power, providing significant multi-threaded gains over previous H-series chips. Key advantages include raw performance within 10% of high-end desktops, support for PCI Express 5.0, and both processor...Read more

N
notebookcheck.biz
18/08/2022
Aorus 17X XES Review: High-End Gaming Laptop with i9-12900HX and Peak Performance

The Notebookcheck review of the Gigabyte Aorus 17X XES highlights a high-end desktop replacement, driven by an Intel Core i9-12900HX and RTX 3070 Ti, that excels in gaming and multi-core performance. Key pros include a 360 Hz IPS display with excellent response times, offering a superior competitive e-sports experience, alongside high-performance potential that challenges desktop...Read more

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J
jdgaming.es
24/09/2025
i9‑12900HX as a Desktop Processor: Is It Worth It? Join Digital Gaming

The JD Gaming review highlights the Intel Core i9-12900HX as a disruptive "hybrid" solution, mounting a 16-core, 24-thread gaming laptop CPU onto a desktop platform to deliver performance comparable to traditional high-end desktop chips in benchmarks like Cinebench R23 and 3DMark. This configuration offers a compelling price-to-performance ratio for gaming and professional tasks,...Read more

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N
notebookcheck.it
01/09/2022
MSI Titan GT77 Series (Hands-on: i9-12900HX processor). Let me know if you'd like to dive into the specific benchmarks from these tests or if you're l...

The MSI Titan GT77 is a high-performance desktop replacement laptop featuring an Intel Core i9-12900HX and NVIDIA RTX 3080 Ti (175W TGP), providing elite gaming and workstation power. It boasts a 4K UHD 120Hz display and a superior Cherry MX mechanical keyboard, though its design is exceptionally heavy at 3.3 kg with a 1.4 kg power brick [1, 2]. While the Cooler Boost Titan system...Read more

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S
smartworld.it
17/11/2022
MSI Raider GE67 HX Review: Your New Desktop PC is an OLED Laptop

The MSI Raider GE67 HX is a high-performance gaming laptop featuring a 15.6-inch QHD 240Hz OLED display that delivers exceptional contrast, deep blacks, and full DCI-P3 color accuracy. Powered by an Intel Core i9-12900HX and Nvidia RTX 3080 Ti, it offers top-tier performance for gaming and professional tasks, supported by extensive ports and a tactile SteelSeries keyboard. However,...Read more

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tomshw.it
17/10/2022
Lenovo Legion 7i with RTX 3080 Ti | Review

The Lenovo Legion 7i Gen 7 (2022) with Intel Core i9-12900HX and RTX 3080 Ti offers top-tier, desktop-class performance, driven by a 175W TGP GPU and robust cooling, housed in a high-quality aluminum chassis. Its 16-inch QHD+ 165Hz display and extensive connectivity, including Thunderbolt 4, are major strengths for gaming and productivity. Key drawbacks include very short battery...Read more

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N
notebookcheck.nl
03/04/2023
The Last of Us Part I Review: Laptop and Desktop Benchmarks

The Notebookcheck review of The Last of Us Part I on PC praises the title as a visually stunning remake, offering a comprehensive graphics menu with detailed VRAM indicators and support for NVIDIA DLSS and AMD FSR. While high-end hardware enables superior lighting and texture quality compared to the PS5 version, the title is heavily critiqued for demanding extreme VRAM usage—often...Read more

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T
techgaming.nl
05/08/2022
Video Review: MSI Titan GT77 12UHS-024NL

The MSI Titan GT77 12UHS-024NL is a high-performance desktop replacement featuring an Intel Core i9-12900HX and RTX 3080 Ti GPU (175W), offering immense power for gaming and creative tasks. Its key strengths include extensive expansion with four DDR5 slots and four M.2 slots, alongside a mechanical Cherry MX keyboard, though it suffers from poor portability due to its heavy, deep...Read more

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T
techgaming.nl
29/07/2022
MSI Titan GT77 12UHS-024NL Review

The MSI Titan GT77 12UHS-024NL is identified as a desktop-replacement laptop offering extreme, "deity-level" performance via its Intel Core i9-12900HX and NVIDIA RTX 3080 Ti GPU. It stands out for exceptional upgradeability, featuring four DDR5 RAM slots and four M.2 slots, along with a 4K 120Hz display and a mechanical Cherry MX keyboard. However, the machine is extremely heavy,...Read more

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