The Intel Core i7-12700K is the objective winner of this comparison, securing a lead in eight of the sixteen evaluated specifications. Its most significant advantage over the Intel Core i5-12400F is its total core count, which is 100% higher. While the i5-12400F maintains a notable lead in MSRP, which is 57% better than its counterpart, the i7-12700K provides superior hardware density across the majority of the measured technical categories.

Users prioritizing raw core count for demanding multi-threaded workloads should select the Intel Core i7-12700K to leverage its expanded processing capacity. Conversely, those operating under strict budgetary constraints will find the Intel Core i5-12400F to be the more economical choice. By focusing on the 57% MSRP advantage, cost-conscious builders can allocate their remaining funds elsewhere while still securing a capable processor that holds its own in five of the sixteen comparison fields.