The Intel Core i5-12400F is the objective winner of this comparison, securing five spec victories against two for the Intel Core i5-11400F. While the older model holds a slight edge in initial cost, the most impactful advantage belongs to the newer processor. The Intel Core i5-12400F provides a 150% improvement in L2 cache capacity, which represents its most significant technical superiority over the Intel Core i5-11400F across all measured categories.

Users prioritizing the most advanced architecture and memory cache capabilities should select the Intel Core i5-12400F for their build. Conversely, the Intel Core i5-11400F remains a viable option for budget-conscious buyers who want to capitalize on its 11% advantage in MSRP. Choosing between these two components depends entirely on whether you value the substantial cache increase found in the newer model or the lower cost associated with the previous generation.