Core i5 12400 processor review

ZAH Computers Tech Editorial

ZAH Computers Hardware Research Desk

The Core i5 12400 features six performance cores and hyper-threading, positioning it as a highly desirable budget-friendly CPU within the Alder Lake series for gaming platforms today. It delivers substantial tier 1 performance and can be paired with DDR5 memory when used with the more affordable B660 chipset. With six optimally clocked high-performance cores, this processor offers exceptional gaming value and impressive overall desktop performance, priced at approximately 210 USD. This release marks our entry into the mainstream value segment, which indicates that there is no K-version (overclockable) processor available for review today. The Core i5 12400 will be offered in two variants: the 12400 and the 12400F, the latter of which has its integrated graphics processor disabled. Each chip is equipped with 16 PCIe 5.0 lanes, which can be utilized for either graphics or storage; however, it is important to note that there are currently no B660 motherboards that support the 5.0 specification. Utilizing a processor on a high-end Z690 motherboard may not be the most prudent choice; we recommend considering a value-oriented B660 motherboard instead. This will result in the use of PCIe 4.0 lanes rather than PCIe 5.0, which is not a significant drawback. Motherboards will accommodate either DDR4 or DDR5 memory, with native speeds of 3,200MHz or 4,800MHz, respectively, depending on the specific model. The Intel Core i5-12400 features six Golden Cove P cores with hyperthreading, and it does not include any energy-efficient E-cores in this Alder Lake variant. The processor is equipped with an 18MB L3 cache and has a thermal design power (TDP) of 65W. The boost clock for a single core can reach 4.4GHz, while the all-core boost is 4.0GHz, with a base frequency of 2.5GHz. This processor has a base power (PL1) of 65W and a maximum turbo power (PL2) of 117W. There is much to discuss and clarify; let us proceed to the article, where we will begin with a detailed overview of the Alder Lake architecture, the initial processors released, and, of course, a comprehensive test of the processor. This article focuses on the Core i5 12400, a processor that is both mainstream and highly suitable for gaming.