Intel Core i3-12100F
12th Gen 4-core CPU (P-cores only). 3.3–4.3 GHz, 12MB L3 Cache. Supports PCIe 5.0, DDR5/DDR4. 58W base. No iGPU. Includes Intel Laminar RM1 Cooler.
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Key specifications
Alder Lake (12th Gen Intel Core)
LGA1700
4 Cores (4 Performance + 0 Efficient) / 8 Threads
3.3 GHz Base / Up to 4.3 GHz Max Turbo
12 MB Intel® Smart Cache (L3) + 5 MB L2
58 W (Processor Base Power)
89 W (Maximum Turbo Power)
Intel 7 (10nm Enhanced SuperFin)
DDR5-4800 MT/s / DDR4-3200 MT/s (Up to 128 GB)
76.8 GB/s
PCIe 5.0 and 4.0
20 (16 PCIe 5.0 + 4 PCIe 4.0)
No (F-Series; Discrete GPU Required)
SSE4.1/4.2, AVX2, Intel 64, VT-x/VT-d, AES-NI
Yes (Intel Laminar RM1)
100°C (212°F) Tjunction
F-series requires a discrete graphics card. Excellent pairing with H610 or B660 chipsets for budget builds.
Intel 600 and 700 Series (H610, B660, H670, Z690, etc.)
✓ Pros
- Superior single-core performance typically beating older flagships
- Highly efficient 58W base power draw
- Includes Intel Laminar RM1 cooler (adequate for this TDP)
- Most affordable entry point for PCIe 5.0 support
✗ Cons
- Limited to 4 cores (struggles with heavy multi-threaded production workloads)
- No integrated graphics (requires a discrete GPU)
- Locked multiplier (overclocking not supported)
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Frequently Asked Questions
+ Is the Intel Core i3-12100F worth buying in 2026?
Yes, the Intel Core i3-12100F is worth it if you prioritize superior single-core performance typically beating older flagships. With a 4.7/5 rating, it stands out in the processors category. However, consider that limited to 4 cores (struggles with heavy multi-threaded production workloads). Check our detailed verdict above.
+ What are the main specs of Intel Core i3-12100F?
Key specifications include: Architecture Gen: Alder Lake (12th Gen Intel Core), Socket Platform: LGA1700, Cores Threads: 4 Cores (4 Performance + 0 Efficient) / 8 Threads, Base Boost Clock: 3.3 GHz Base / Up to 4.3 GHz Max Turbo. See the full specifications table above for complete technical details.
+ Where is the best place to buy Intel Core i3-12100F?
For US buyers, Amazon offers the best combination of competitive pricing, fast Prime shipping, easy returns, and reliable warranty support. Use our affiliate links above to check current prices and availability.
+ What are the pros and cons of Intel Core i3-12100F?
Pros: Superior single-core performance typically beating older flagships; Highly efficient 58W base power draw; Includes Intel Laminar RM1 cooler (adequate for this TDP). Cons: Limited to 4 cores (struggles with heavy multi-threaded production workloads); No integrated graphics (requires a discrete GPU). See our detailed breakdown above for the complete analysis.
+ How does Intel Core i3-12100F compare to alternatives?
We have 18+ detailed comparisons with similar processors. Popular matchups include AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D and AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D. Check the comparison section above.
+ Are PageBen reviews independent and unbiased?
Yes. PageBen is an independent review site. While we use affiliate links for monetization, our recommendations are research-driven and based on objective specifications, user feedback, and real-world performance. We are not sponsored by manufacturers.
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