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AMD Ryzen 7 5700 X3D vs Intel Core i7 12700K – everything you need to know

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Last Updated on February 1, 2024
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With the release date of AMD’s Ryzen 7 5700 X3D fast approaching, we wondered how it would perform in comparison to other similar products on the market. In this AMD Ryzen 7 5700 X3D vs Intel Core i7 12700K comparison guide we focus on each of the processor’s specs, performance, and price to decide which of the two comes out on top. This comparison will focus on a holistic view of both CPUs and although we don’t have real-life benchmarks of the 5700 X3D yet, we can reach some interesting conclusions.

If you’re keen to find out more about AMD’s latest release, check out some of our other coverage. Including our top picks of the best CPU cooler for the 5700 X3D and some of our other comparison guides.

AMD Ryzen 7 5700 X3D vs Intel Core i7 12700K – specs at a glance

Specification Ryzen 7 5700 X3DIntel Core i7 12700K
Cores | Threads8 Cores | 16 threads12 Cores | 20 threads
L3 Cache96MB25MB
TDP105W125W
DDR4 memory320032000
Max. Boost Clock4.1 GHz5 GHz

Specs comparison

The Intel Core i7-12700K boasts a more robust core count, featuring 12 cores compared to the 8 cores of the 5700 X3D. This difference extends to thread count as well, with Intel offering 20 threads against AMD’s 16. Intel’s approach prioritizes the volume and architecture of their cores and threads, making them central to their CPU’s power and performance capabilities.

On the other hand, with the Zen 3 architecture, paired with the 3D V-cache technology, AMD aimed for a different path; L3 cache and memory efficiency. The 5700 X3D has a massive 96MB of L3 cache; extremely impressive when compared to the 12700K’s 25MB. This disparity highlights AMD’s strategy of leveraging 3D V-cache technology to enhance the system’s use of memory and efficiency in certain scenarios.

When it comes to gaming performance, the 5700 X3D CPU stands out as a formidable contender. Being just around 4-8% slower than its older, bigger sibling, the 5800 X3D, we can conclude that the 5700 X3D is a stronger gaming unit than the Intel counterpart.

The intel 12700K has proven to beat the 5800 X3D in tasks involving multi-threading and even single-threading, such as video editing, 3D rendering, and complex data processing. Given that the 5800 X3D slightly edges out the 5700 X3D in performance, it’s logical to conclude that the 12700K would surpass the 5700 X3D in these areas as well.

This superiority in performance is backed by Intel’s core and thread architecture. The Alder Lake architecture of the 12700K features a mix of performance and efficiency cores, offering a more robust and versatile approach compared to AMD’s offering in this matchup. Thanks to these qualities, the 12700K’s architecture not only provides a boost in raw power but also enhances the CPU’s ability to handle a variety of tasks efficiently, particularly those outside gaming.

Price comparison

When we delve into pricing, the landscape gets even more intriguing. Set to launch at a highly competitive price of $249 on January 31st, the Ryzen 7 5700 X3D certainly shakes things up. This price point is a bold move by AMD, clearly aimed at capturing the attention of budget-conscious gamers.

In contrast, the Intel Core i7 12700K, which initially hit the market back in November 2021 at a price of $409, has seen a notable price drop over time. As of now, you can snag the 12700K for around $279-$284 on platforms like Newegg. This substantial drop brings it much closer to the 5700 X3D’s territory in terms of affordability, making the decision between the two CPUs more nuanced.

Is the Ryzen 7 5700 X3D better than i7 12700K?

Taking all factors into account, we recommend the Intel Core i7 12700K over the AMD Ryzen 7 5700 X3D as the overall best CPU. Its superior multi-threading capabilities, overclocking potential, and broader application scope make it a more attractive option for users looking for a CPU that can handle not just gaming, but also other demanding tasks efficiently.

✓ Eve’s thoughts

Waiting for reviews

Although it’s great to have an idea of specs and performance before you purchase a product, its also a good idea to wait until the product has been properly reviewed once it’s released. Just so you can get an exact picture of what you’re paying for.

AMD Ryzen 7 5700 X3D vs Intel Core i7 12700K – Conclusion

In conclusion, the AMD Ryzen 7 5700 X3D positions itself as a formidable gaming CPU for those on a budget, potentially outperforming the Intel Core i7 12700K in this specific area. However, the recent price drop of the Intel 12700K significantly alters the landscape. This reduction in cost makes the 12700K a more complete and appealing option for users seeking a versatile CPU beyond gaming.

Eve is a writer and copy editor at PC Guide, who focuses on a broad range of topics but main interest lies in the development of AI technology.