Performance comparison: which is faster?
Core i9-12900F (Intel, 2022) and Core Ultra 5 245KF (Intel, 2025) are compared here. Compare not only scores, but also whether the motherboard can be reused and which GPU class is balanced with each CPU.
Overall performance: nearly equal
The sockets differ (LGA1700 / LGA1851), so switching requires a motherboard replacement. For games, performance balance with the GPU (guideline CPU:GPU = 0.9:1) matters more than CPU speed alone.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual speed varies by workload, cooling, and memory configuration.
| Item | i9-12900F | Ultra 5 245KF |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 37,500 | 37,500 |
| Generation | 12th Gen | Core Ultra |
| Socket | LGA1700 | LGA1851 |
| Release Year | 2022 | 2025 |
| Type | Desktop | Desktop |
| Compatible GPU Example | GeForce RTX 5060 Ti | GeForce RTX 3080 Ti |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize maximum speed for heavy work or a high-end GPU | i9-12900F |
| Upgrade while reusing the current motherboard | Choose the CPU matching your motherboard socket |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | i9-12900F (the lower model is often sufficient) |
Their scores are nearly identical (i9-12900F: 37500 points / Ultra 5 245KF: 37500 points). Choose the less expensive option or the one that fits your current motherboard.
i9-12900F is 12th Gen, while Ultra 5 245KF is Core Ultra.The sockets differ (LGA1700 / LGA1851), so switching requires a motherboard replacement.
Using our CPU:GPU = 0.9:1 guideline, GeForce RTX 5060 Ti pairs well with i9-12900F and GeForce RTX 3080 Ti pairs well with Ultra 5 245KF. If either GPU is too strong or too weak, one part holds the other back.
