AMD Ryzen 5 7600 vs Intel Core i5-12400F
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600 is the more powerful option, boasting a max boost clock of 5.1 GHz compared to the Intel Core i5-12400F's 4.4 GHz. In real-world gaming, the speed difference can lead to smoother frame rates, making it the no-brainer choice for gamers aiming for performance in 2026. The Intel Core i5-12400F offers a locked multiplier, meaning overclocking isn't allowed, which could be a dealbreaker for those wanting to push their CPU's limits. Both CPUs share a 65W TDP, but the AMD's efficiency shines through, especially when you consider that it includes a cooler that performs well under gaming loads, with minimal noise even at high temperatures.
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AMD Ryzen 5 7600
Intel Core i5-12400F
Comparison: AMD Ryzen 5 7600 vs Intel Core i5-12400F
AMD Ryzen 5 7600
Intel Core i5-12400F
| Criterion | AMD Ryzen 5 7600 | Intel Core i5-12400F |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.8(2,968)Amazon | ★4.8(2,855)Amazon |
Architecture Gen | Zen 4 (Ryzen 7000 Series) | Alder Lake (12th Gen Intel Core) |
Socket Platform | Socket AM5 (LGA 1718) | LGA1700 |
Cores Threads | 6 Cores / 12 Threads | 6 Cores (6 Performance + 0 Efficient) / 12 Threads |
Base Boost Clock | 3.8 GHz Base / Up to 5.1 GHz Boost | 2.5 GHz Base / Up to 4.4 GHz Max Turbo |
Cache L2 L3 | 6 MB L2 + 32 MB L3 (38 MB Total) | 18 MB Intel® Smart Cache (L3) + 7.5 MB L2 |
TDP Power | 65 W | 65 W (Processor Base Power) |
Max Turbo Power | 88 W (PPT) | 117 W (Maximum Turbo Power) |
Process Node | TSMC 5nm FinFET (Core Complex) / 6nm (I/O Die) | Intel 7 (10nm Enhanced SuperFin) |
Memory Support | DDR5-5200 MT/s (Official); Dual-Channel; Up to 192 GB; ECC Support | DDR5-4800 MT/s / DDR4-3200 MT/s (Up to 128 GB) |
Memory Bandwidth Max | N/A (Dependent on RAM config, theoretical max ~83.2 GB/s @ 5200 MT/s) | 76.8 GB/s |
Pcie Version | PCIe 5.0 | PCIe 5.0 and 4.0 |
Pcie Lanes | 28 Total (24 Usable for Graphics/Storage) | 20 (16 PCIe 5.0 + 4 PCIe 4.0) |
Igpu | AMD Radeon Graphics (2 Cores, 2200 MHz) | No (F-Series; Discrete GPU Required) |
Instruction Features | AMD-V, AVX, AVX2, AVX-512, FMA3, AES-NI, SHA, SSE4.1/4.2 | SSE4.1/4.2, AVX2, Intel 64, VT-x/VT-d, AES-NI, GNA 3.0 |
Cooler Included | Yes (Wraith Stealth) | Yes (Intel Laminar RM1) |
Max Temp | 95°C (203°F) TjMax | 100°C (212°F) Tjunction |
Notes Limits | Efficient 65W design with unlocked multiplier for overclocking (PBO supported). Low power draw (88W PPT max) makes it easy to cool. Integrated graphics intended for display/office use only. | F-series requires a discrete graphics card. Lacks E-cores (Efficient cores) present in i5-12600K and higher. |
Chipset Support | A620, B650, B650E, X670, X670E, B840, B850, X870, X870E | Intel 600 and 700 Series (B660, H610, Z690, B760, etc.) |
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AMD Ryzen 5 7600
✓ Pros:
- • Excellent price-to-performance ratio for gaming
- • Highly efficient 65W TDP; runs cool and includes a stock cooler
- • Affordable entry point to the future-proof AM5 platform
✗ Cons:
- • 6 cores may limit performance in heavy multi-threaded productivity
- • Included Wraith Stealth cooler is adequate but can get noisy under load
- • Integrated graphics performance is very basic
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Intel Core i5-12400F
✓ Pros:
- • Exceptional price-to-performance ratio for gaming
- • Includes capable Intel Laminar RM1 stock cooler
- • Low power consumption (65W base) compared to higher tiers
- • Full support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory
✗ Cons:
- • No integrated graphics (cannot output video without a GPU)
- • Locked multiplier (overclocking not supported)
- • Lacks E-cores, reducing multi-threaded performance compared to 12600K
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Which one is better?
The AMD Ryzen 5 7600 is the better buy for most people - its max boost clock of 5.1 GHz crushes the Intel Core i5-12400F's 4.4 GHz. That said, grab the Intel if you need a budget-friendly option without integrated graphics - it's a no-brainer for those who already have a discrete GPU.
Who should buy each?
Choose the AMD Ryzen 5 7600 if: you want the best gaming performance with a max boost of 5.1 GHz, you prefer a cooler that runs quietly under load, or you plan to future-proof your build with DDR5 support.
Choose the Intel Core i5-12400F if: you need a budget-friendly option without the need for integrated graphics, you’re okay with a locked multiplier for overclocking, or you want a capable cooler included.
Conclusion
We hope this comparison helps you buy with confidence. Both products are dependable; the right one depends on how you will use it.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
AMD Ryzen 5 7600 excels if you value excellent price-to-performance ratio for gaming. Intel Core i5-12400F is better if you prioritize exceptional price-to-performance ratio for gaming. Pick based on your budget and daily use.
+Is this an independent review?
Yes. We use affiliate links for monetization, but recommendations are research-driven and unbiased.
+Do newer models exist?
Check release timelines from the manufacturers and compare pricing before you buy. We refresh this page when major updates land.
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