AMD Ryzen 7 8700G vs Intel Core i5-12600K
The AMD Ryzen 7 8700G shines with its integrated Radeon 780M graphics, delivering 1080p gaming without a dedicated GPU. Meanwhile, the Intel Core i5-12600K offers a strong performance with its hybrid architecture, featuring 10 cores that boost multitasking capabilities. Both are solid mid-range options, but if you're into gaming, the 8700G's graphics prowess gives it an edge. In real-world use, the 8700G’s 65W TDP means lower power consumption while still providing 5.1 GHz boost speeds, making it efficient for everyday tasks. On the flip side, the Intel's 125W can lead to higher energy bills over time, but it supports PCIe 5.0, which is great for future upgrades. So, while the 8700G is excellent for budget gaming setups, the i5-12600K holds its ground for serious multitaskers looking for raw performance.
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AMD Ryzen 7 8700G
Intel Core i5-12600K
Comparison: AMD Ryzen 7 8700G vs Intel Core i5-12600K
AMD Ryzen 7 8700G
Intel Core i5-12600K
| Criterion | AMD Ryzen 7 8700G | Intel Core i5-12600K |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | ★4.7(554)Amazon | ★4.7(2,902)Amazon |
Architecture Gen | Zen 4 (Ryzen 8000G Series / Hawk Point) | Alder Lake (12th Gen Intel Core) |
Socket Platform | Socket AM5 (LGA 1718) | LGA1700 |
Cores Threads | 8 Cores / 16 Threads | 10 Cores (6 Performance + 4 Efficient) / 16 Threads |
Base Boost Clock | 4.2 GHz Base / Up to 5.1 GHz Boost | P-core: 3.7–4.9 GHz / E-core: 2.8–3.6 GHz |
Cache L2 L3 | 8 MB L2 + 16 MB L3 (24 MB Total) | 20 MB Intel® Smart Cache (L3) + 9.5 MB L2 |
TDP Power | 65 W | 125 W (Processor Base Power) |
Max Turbo Power | 88 W (PPT) | 150 W (Maximum Turbo Power) |
Process Node | TSMC 4nm FinFET (Monolithic Die) | Intel 7 (10nm Enhanced SuperFin) |
Memory Support | DDR5-5200 MT/s (Official); Dual-Channel; Up to 256 GB; ECC Support: No | 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 4.0 | PCIe 5.0 and 4.0 |
Pcie Lanes | 20 Total (16 Usable: x8 Graphics, 2x4 NVMe/General) | 20 (16 PCIe 5.0 + 4 PCIe 4.0) |
Igpu | AMD Radeon 780M (12 Compute Units, 2900 MHz) | Intel UHD Graphics 770 (32 EUs, 1.45 GHz Dyn Max) |
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 |
Cooler Included | Yes (Wraith Spire) | No (Heatsink not included) |
Max Temp | 95°C (203°F) TjMax | 100°C (212°F) Tjunction |
Notes Limits | Features 'Ryzen AI' NPU (16 TOPS). Monolithic design has less L3 cache than chiplet Ryzen 7000. Discrete GPU slot limited to PCIe 4.0 x8 speed (sufficient for most mid-range GPUs). | Unlocked for overclocking. Requires LGA1700 motherboard (600/700 series). ECC supported on W680 chipset only. |
Chipset Support | A620, B650, B650E, X670, X670E, B840, B850, X870, X870E | Intel 600 and 700 Series (Z690, B660, Z790, etc.) |
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AMD Ryzen 7 8700G
✓ Pros:
- • Best-in-class integrated graphics (Radeon 780M) capable of 1080p gaming
- • Includes dedicated NPU for local AI workloads (Ryzen AI)
- • Efficient 65W operation with included Wraith Spire cooler
✗ Cons:
- • PCIe 4.0 only (no PCIe 5.0) and reduced lane count (x8 for GPU)
- • Small L3 cache (16MB) limits performance with high-end discrete GPUs
- • ECC memory not supported (unlike standard Ryzen 7000/9000 CPUs)
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Intel Core i5-12600K
✓ Pros:
- • Excellent price-to-performance ratio for gaming and multitasking
- • Hybrid architecture (P-cores + E-cores) improves efficiency
- • Future-proof support for PCIe 5.0 and DDR5 memory
- • Unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking (K-Series)
- • Integrated graphics useful for troubleshooting or Quick Sync
✗ Cons:
- • Thermal solution not included (requires robust aftermarket cooler)
- • High power consumption under full turbo load (150W)
- • Requires LGA1700 mounting bracket for older coolers
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Which one is better?
The AMD Ryzen 7 8700G is the better buy for most people - its best-in-class integrated graphics allows for 1080p gaming without a discrete GPU. That said, grab the Intel Core i5-12600K if you need serious multitasking power and plan on using PCIe 5.0 devices - it's a solid investment for future upgrades.
Who should buy each?
Choose the AMD Ryzen 7 8700G if: you want excellent integrated graphics for 1080p gaming, need a power-efficient CPU for daily tasks, or prefer a cooler that's included in the box.
Choose the Intel Core i5-12600K if: you prioritize multitasking with 10 cores, plan to upgrade to PCIe 5.0 devices, or are considering overclocking for enhanced performance.
Conclusion
There is no wrong answer here. Focus on the features you will use daily and pick the model that aligns with them.
Frequently Asked Questions
+Which has better value?
AMD Ryzen 7 8700G excels if you value best-in-class integrated graphics (radeon 780m) capable of 1080p gaming. Intel Core i5-12600K is better if you prioritize excellent price-to-performance ratio for gaming and multitasking. 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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