Intel’s latest releases, the i7-13700K and i9-13900K, have been making headlines in the tech industry with their impressive specifications and capabilities. However, despite their newer release dates, the i7-12700K and i9-12900K remain some of the best processors on the market in terms of performance, temperatures, and longevity.
Performance
When it comes to performance, the i7-12700K and i9-12900K hold their own against newer models. Both processors boast impressive clock speeds and multi-core processing capabilities that allow for smooth and efficient multitasking. In fact, the i9-12900K is currently one of the fastest processors available on the market, with a base clock speed of 3.2 GHz and a turbo boost of up to 5.3 GHz. The 12th gen i7 and i9 are 5-10% behind in gaming, but they close the gap with multithreaded performance. The 12th gen performance will give you the competitive edge for the next decade and beyond. Looking back in time, the i7-3770k, which released in 2012, boasts impressive quad-core performance even in 2023, being more than capable of running multiple programs and e-sports games 11 years later. The i7-12700k and i9-12900K may have an even longer lifespan due to their improved multi-threaded technology (P and E cores) while the PC gaming and productivity innovations appear to be plateauing, unless AI and VR become more power-hungry.
Temperatures
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a processor is its temperature. Overheating can lead to reduced performance, shorter lifespan, and potential damage to other components. The i7-12700K and i9-12900K are designed to operate at lower temperatures, thanks to their advanced manufacturing processes and efficient power usage. These processors also have advanced cooling mechanisms that help regulate their temperature, allowing for optimal performance even during demanding tasks. In our experience, a top rated 240 or 360 mm AIO liquid cooler will keep these CPUs below 60 C under full load while the 13th gen equivalents are lucky if they do not touch 80 C. That being said, most users will not be running their CPUs on full load for any task besides benchmarking. The overall higher temperatures may lead to motherboard cooling issues in the future. This is another reason to consider the 12700K and 12900k for your next PC.
Longevity
Finally, the longevity of a processor is crucial, especially for those who use their computers for heavy workloads or gaming. The i7-12700K and i9-12900K are built to last, thanks to their robust designs and efficient power usage. These processors have been tested extensively to ensure they can withstand high temperatures, voltage fluctuations, and other factors that can affect their lifespan. Comparing to newer models: While the i7-13700K and i9-13900K offer impressive performance, they do come with some drawbacks. These newer models operate at hotter temperatures than their predecessors, which can lead to reduced performance and potential damage to other components. Additionally, their power usage is less efficient, meaning they may consume more electricity and generate more heat overall.
Overall, the i7-12700K and i9-12900K remain some of the best processors on the market, offering impressive performance, efficient power usage, and a long lifespan. While the i7-13700K and i9-13900K offer new and exciting features, the i7-12700K and i9-12900K are reliable and proven processors that have stood the test of time. If you’re looking for a processor that can handle even the most demanding tasks while staying cool and efficient, the i7-12700K and i9-12900K are definitely worth considering.
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See our article about the most budget-friendly CPUs for gaming: https://customluxpcs.com/767-2/