The AMD Ryzen 5 8600G is the objective winner of this comparison, securing a lead in seven out of sixteen measured specifications. Its most significant advantage over the Intel Core i5-12600K is its NPU performance, which is 100% better. This substantial lead in specialized processing capability positions the AMD Ryzen 5 8600G as the superior choice for users prioritizing modern hardware acceleration features over traditional core counts.

Users who require advanced AI-driven processing should select the AMD Ryzen 5 8600G to leverage its superior NPU performance. Conversely, those who prioritize multi-threaded task management should choose the Intel Core i5-12600K, as it offers a 100% advantage in E-core count. By evaluating these specific architectural differences, buyers can align their hardware selection with their primary computing needs, whether that involves specialized acceleration or high-density core processing.