The Intel Core i5-12600K is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victories in ten out of fourteen measured specifications. Its most significant technical advantage is the L2 cache, which is 533% larger than that of the Intel Core i7-8700K. This substantial increase in cache capacity serves as the primary differentiator between the two processors, providing the newer model with a clear architectural lead across the majority of the evaluated performance metrics.

Users prioritizing modern architecture and superior cache efficiency should choose the Intel Core i5-12600K for their build. Conversely, the Intel Core i7-8700K remains a viable option for those specifically seeking a higher max turbo power, as it holds a 37% advantage in that category. Selecting between these two components depends on whether your workload benefits more from the significantly expanded L2 cache of the newer processor or the specific power profile of the older model.