Intel 12th Gen CPUs: Best Bang for Your Buck

Struggling to find your next great value CPU upgrade? Enter the Intel 12^th Gen. Although slightly older, this generation of processors are still super powerful and come equipped with everything you need to boost your gaming to new heights. All without breaking the bank.  

We’re showcasing everything you need to know about Intel 12^th Gen processors, showcasing each model, and why they are perfect for gaming.  

Keep on reading for more! 

The Intel 12^th Gen 

The Intel 12^th Gen, or Alder Lake, processors are the first generation of CPUs to feature Intel’s ground-breaking hybrid core architecture. Engineered with a combination of premium P-(performance) and E-(efficiency) cores, Intel 12^th Gen CPUs have been optimised for seamless multitasking. The P-cores are responsible for squeezing every drop of performance possible from your processor, whilst the E-cores ensure peak efficiency across all your applications, no matter how demanding they are.  

This is backed up by Intel Thread Director, a dedicated AI software which intelligently manages all your workloads, guaranteeing that the best core is assigned to the job. What’s more, these processors are compatible with plenty of the most popular standards including DDR4, DDR5, and PCIe 5.0. 

The CPUs 

There are a range of Intel 12^th Gen CPUs ranging from entry-level models all the way to flagship CPUs that are unlocked for overclocking. We’ve broken down all the processors in the Alder Lake generation split across the i9, i7, i5, and i3 models.  

If you want a closer look at the key differences between these processors, look at our table below.  

Processor Chip Type 

Intel CPUs are split into different categories and performance brackets based on the suffix in each name – KS, KF, K, or F. 

KS  

‘KS’ processors have been built to perform at exceptionally high clock speeds, featuring support for overclocking. As a result, these processors often boast a higher than average TDP.  

KF  

‘KF’ CPUs feature the high specification of the standard ‘K’ models with no integrated graphics.  

K 

Intel 12^th Gen ‘K’ CPUs are unlocked for overclocking, include onboard graphics, and boast notably higher base and boost clock speeds. These processors are the ultimate upgrade for gamers and streamers, but they demand extra power to deliver such high levels of performance. These models also feature onboard graphics.  

F 

Lastly, ‘F’ models all feature the same specification as the non-F models, but don’t include any onboard graphics. This means you will need a dedicated GPU to render the latest games.  

Are Intel 12^th Gen CPUs Good for Gaming? 

Intel 12^th Gen CPUs have been fine-tuned to deliver peak performance and immersive gameplay in all your favourite AAA titles. The hybrid blend of P- and E-cores take control of processing your gaming worlds whilst also enhancing efficiency for fast clock speeds and near zero latency. All of which allows you to dominate your in-game enemies and simultaneously chat with your teammates with ease.  

What’s more, compatibility with DDR4, DDR5, and PCIe 5.0 ensures you can use an Intel 12^th Gen CPU with plenty of the latest hardware, including the NVIDIA RTX 40 and AMD Radeon RX 7000 Series. This means you don’t need to spend extra on upgrading the rest of your components to ensure you can fully utilise your new shiny Intel 12^th Gen processor.  

With models suitable for every budget and gameplay style, you are sure to find the perfect Intel 12^th CPU to match your needs. All without breaking the bank.  

Which Intel 12^th CPU is Good For…  

If you don’t know which Intel 12^th Gen CPU is right for your set-up and needs, we’ve got your back! We’ve broken down our top recommendations based on casual, mid-tier, and high-end gaming. 

Casual Gaming  

For casual gaming, the Intel Core i5 12400F CPU is the perfect choice. Equipped with 6 cores and 12 threads, this processor features all the power you need to enjoy playing titles such as Overwatch 2, Stardew Valley, and more. With boosted clock speeds of up to 4.4GHz, enjoy ultra-fast performance across all your workloads, whilst PCIe 5.0 ensures minimal latency or input lag for uninterrupted gameplay every time. Plus, with a low TDP of only 65W, the i5 12400F is ideal for those looking to design a wallet friendly PC that is easy on the environment.  

Intel Core i5 12400F CPU

• 6 cores
• 12 threads
• 4.4GHz boosted clock speeds
• 65W TDP

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Mid-tier Gaming  

Alternatively, for mid-tier gaming, we recommend the Intel Core i7 12700KF. This processor is the ultimate upgrade for mid-tier gamers looking to notably boost their performance. Harnessing the combination of 12 cores and 20 threads, along with 5.0GHz boosted clock rates, unlock blisteringly fast speeds and seamless multitasking. You can stream, chat away to your friends, and play popular titles such as Zenless Zone Zero or Manor Lords.  

Intel Core i7 12700KF CPU

• 12 cores
• 20 threads
• 5.0GHz boosted clock speeds
• 125W TDP

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High-End Gaming  

Last, but certainly not least, is the Intel i9 12900KF. This flagship tier processor features everything you need to immerse yourself fully in all your favourite AAA games including Elden Ring Shadow of the Erd Tree and Ghost of Tsushima. The hybrid core architecture with 16 cores and 24 threads can effortlessly handle any demanding task you throw its way with peak efficiency. All of which is backed up by Intel Thread Director. 

Intel i9 12900KF CPU

• 16 cores
• 24 threads
• 5.2GHz boosted clock speeds
• 125W TDP

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Inspired to Upgrade? 

Have we finally tempted you enough to upgrade to the Intel 12^th Gen Series? If so, at Overclockers UK, you can find an extensive range of these incredible processors. Simply click the button below to browse our Alder Lake line-up.  

Don’t Want to Build Your Own? 

If building your own PC isn’t quite your vibe, don’t worry! You can find plenty of high-quality PCs that harness an Intel 12^th Gen CPU.  

OcUK Gaming Carbide Pre-Built PC

• Pre-built gaming PC
• Intel Core i5 12400F CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4060
• 16GB DDR4 RAM
• 1TB M.2 SSD

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OcUK Gaming Graphite Pre-Built PC

• Pre-built gaming PC
• Intel Core i7 12700KF CPU and NVIDIA RTX 4060 Ti
• 16GB DDR4 RAM
• 1TB M.2 SSD

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Do You Have an Intel 12^th Gen CPU? 

Do you have an Intel 12^th Gen processor? How has this CPU improved your gaming performance? Tell us in the comments below.  

*Prices correct at time of writing and PC specs are subject to change.

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• 6 min read

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Ruth Rowley

Author

Ruth has been with Overclockers UK for over a year and has gone on to write about everything ranging from in-depth hardware guides to monthly game releases. Outside of writing blog posts, she can be found wrapped in a blanket with her black cat, engrossed in a book or playing life-simulation games such as The Sims, Stardew Valley, and Animal Crossing.  
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