The Intel Core Ultra 5 235 is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victory in twelve out of sixteen measured specifications. While the Intel Core i5-12600K holds a 14% advantage in thread count, the Intel Core Ultra 5 235 demonstrates a significantly more impactful lead in memory architecture. Specifically, the Intel Core Ultra 5 235 offers a 174% improvement in L2 cache capacity, which serves as its most substantial performance advantage over the competing processor.

Users prioritizing raw thread count for specific multi-threaded workloads should select the Intel Core i5-12600K. Conversely, those seeking the most modern architectural benefits should choose the Intel Core Ultra 5 235. By opting for the latter, buyers gain access to the superior L2 cache capacity, which provides a clear technical edge across the majority of the measured specifications. This makes the Intel Core Ultra 5 235 the more versatile choice for general computing needs.