Buying a new PC may be tempting if you own a system that is a few years old. But often there’s life in the old box yet, and a better processor can help breathe life into daily use, saving you spending on a whole new PC. On that note, step forward Core i7-12700KF.

Suppose your current PC has a 12th-gen Alder Lake processor at its heart. In that case, particularly if you have a Core i3 or lowered-powered Core i5 option, the 12700KF can offer a clear step up in daily performance. And it is currently at its lowest price on Amazon, $174, down from its typical price of $183.

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Intel Core i7-12700KF

12-Core Desktop Processor (8P+4E) up to 5.0GHz, LGA1700 125W 600 Series Chipset

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Features and benefits of the Intel Core i7-12700KF

• Architecture – The 12700KF is a 12-core, 20-thread CPU, with 8P (Performance) cores at 3.6 GHz – 5.0 GHz + 4E (efficient) cores at 2.7 GHz – 3.8 GHz – a clear difference to something like a Core i3 12300 (4-core, 8-threads), or a Core i5 12400 (6-core, 12-thread).
• Performance – This CPU offers more than enough power for most when it comes to daily use and will support gaming beyond 1440p, up to 4K with some great GPU options to pair it with.
• Unlocked – Intel’s Core i7-12700KF is an unlocked processor, so can be overclocked if that is something you are comfortable attempting. However, this will increase system heat, draw more power, and can stress a processor.
• Graphics – The ‘F’ in this processor’s part name means it features no integrated graphics, so you will need a graphics card in your system. However, this also means it is a cheaper part than the Core i7-12700K which does feature integrated graphics.

Why consider this Intel Core i7-12700KF deal

Having a lower-powered 12th-gen CPU in your current system is the perfect reason to consider upgrading to the 12700KF. It leaves room to go up to the Core i9-12900K in the future, as that’s still priced $250 but, even if you won’t want to, the 12700KF will definitely offer a boost in performance against i5 and i3 CPUs of the same generation.

You will need a graphics card installed to use this CPU, and if you’re upgrading that part of your system as well, check out our guide on the best GPUs for Core i7-12700K; the same cards will apply to the 12700KF. Getting a new, more powerful processor can really breathe new life into a system that feels like it’s not keeping up. And at $174, it’s a snip against a whole new PC.

About the Author

Kevin Pocock

Kevin has a broad interest and enthusiasm for consumer electronics, PCs, and all things consumer tech. And more than 17 years experience in tech journalism.