Intel Core i9-12900K Gaming Performance
12th Gen • Alder Lake • Released 2021
Passmark Score
This processor is designed for gaming and general computing tasks. With 16 cores and 24 threads running at up to 5.2GHz, the Intel Core i9-12900K scores 90/100 in our gaming benchmarks. It handles modern games without bottlenecking high-end GPUs.
Technical Specifications
Cores
16
Threads
24
Base Clock
3.2 GHz
Boost Clock
5.2 GHz
Cache
N/A
TDP
125W
Gaming Performance Analysis
Overall Gaming Performance
The Intel Core i9-12900K scores 90/100 in our gaming benchmarks, placing it in the flagship category. This processor excels in both single-threaded and multi-threaded gaming scenarios, providing excellent frame rates even in CPU-intensive titles.
CPU-Intensive Games
With 16 cores and 24 threads, the Intel Core i9-12900K handles CPU-intensive games like Starfield, Cities Skylines 2, and Total War with ease. Expect minimal bottlenecking even with high-end GPUs.
Esports & Competitive Gaming
The 5.2GHz boost clock ensures excellent performance in esports titles like CS2, Valorant, and Fortnite. Expect high frame rates for competitive advantage.
Popular Games Performance
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Intel Core i9-12900K good for gaming in 2026?
The Intel Core i9-12900K is a enthusiast-grade processor with 16 cores and 24 threads, scoring 90/100 in our gaming benchmarks. It excels at gaming and handles demanding titles with ease.
What games can the Intel Core i9-12900K run?
The Intel Core i9-12900K can run all modern games. It handles CPU-intensive titles like Starfield and Cities Skylines 2 without issues. Pair it with an appropriate GPU for best results.
Does the Intel Core i9-12900K bottleneck GPUs?
With 16 cores and 24 threads, the Intel Core i9-12900K is unlikely to bottleneck modern GPUs in most games. It provides excellent multi-threaded performance for gaming and productivity.
What is the Intel Core i9-12900K equivalent to?
The Intel Core i9-12900K performs similarly to other enthusiast-grade CPUs in its generation. Check our comparison tool to see how it stacks up against alternatives from AMD.
Additional Information
Performance Scores
Gaming Score
90%
Relative gaming performance