The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victory in nine of the sixteen evaluated categories. Its most significant technical advantage is its L2 cache, which is 174% larger than that of the Intel Core i5-12600KF. This substantial increase in cache capacity represents the primary performance differentiator between the two processors, establishing the newer model as the superior option based on the provided specifications.

Users prioritizing the most advanced technical architecture and memory hierarchy should select the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K for its significant L2 cache advantage. Conversely, the Intel Core i5-12600KF remains a viable alternative for budget-conscious builders, as it holds a 15% advantage in MSRP. Choosing between these components depends on whether your priority is maximizing cache-dependent performance or minimizing the initial cost of your processor purchase.