The Intel Core i3-12100F is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victories in eight out of fourteen measured specifications. Its most significant technical advantage is its L2 cache, which is 150% larger than that of the alternative. By outperforming the Intel Core i9-9900K in the majority of categories, this processor establishes itself as the more modern and efficient choice for users prioritizing the specific architectural improvements provided by the newer hardware.

Choose the Intel Core i3-12100F if you prioritize the superior L2 cache capacity for your computing tasks. Conversely, select the Intel Core i9-9900K if your workflow requires a higher core count, as it offers a 100% advantage in total cores. Your final decision should depend on whether your specific needs are better served by the cache-heavy architecture of the newer model or the increased core density found in the older component.