Core i9-12900K vs Ryzen 5 9600
These two are practically equal for gaming.
Verdict
- Performance index: practically equal (68 vs 68).
- Cores: Core i9-12900K has 16 vs 6.
- Power (TDP): Core i9-12900K 125 W, Ryzen 5 9600 65 W; the Ryzen 5 9600 delivers 92% more performance per watt.
- Age: the Ryzen 5 9600 is 4 years newer (2025 vs 2021).
- Platform: different sockets (LGA1700 vs AM5), so they need different motherboards.
Specs
| Spec | Core i9-12900K | Ryzen 5 9600 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance index | 68 | 68 |
| Brand / series | Intel Core 12th Gen | AMD Ryzen 9000 |
| Released | 2021 | 2025 |
| Cores | 16 | 6 |
| Threads | 24 | 12 |
| Base clock | 3.2 GHz | 3.8 GHz |
| Boost clock | 5.2 GHz | 5.2 GHz |
| Power (TDP) | 125 W | 65 W |
| Socket | LGA1700 | AM5 |