Intel Core i5-12400 12th Gen Hexa-Core Processor – 2.50 GHz, 6 Cores, 12 Threads

Unlock the next level of desktop computing with the Intel Core i5-12400, a 12th generation, six-core powerhouse designed to handle gaming, content creation, and everyday productivity with impressive efficiency. Built on Intel’s innovative Alder Lake architecture, this processor blends strong single-thread performance with robust multi-core throughput, delivering snappy responsiveness for OS tasks, smooth multitasking, and reliable frame rates in modern titles. Whether you’re assembling a budget-friendly gaming rig, upgrading a home workspace, or building a versatile creator machine, the i5-12400 balances power and efficiency to meet a broad spectrum of workloads. It’s engineered to work with current motherboards and memory standards, giving you flexibility in your component choices while ensuring solid performance for years to come. With integrated graphics for everyday visuals and video work, plus support for modern memory technologies, this CPU is a compelling choice for mainstream desktops that demand capable all-around performance without breaking the bank.

• 6 cores and 12 threads deliver strong multitasking and efficient gaming performance. The i5-12400 excels in everyday productivity, streaming, and content creation tasks, thanks to a design that emphasizes real-world throughput and responsiveness across a wide range of workloads. It remains capable of handling modern multitasking scenarios, such as running multiple applications, browser workloads, and background processes, all while maintaining snappy system behavior and smooth application switching.
• Base clock of 2.50 GHz paired with a high Turbo boost (up to 4.4 GHz) provides rapid burst performance when you need it most—loading expansive game environments, compiling code, or rendering previews. This combination ensures that single-threaded tasks and lightly threaded workloads enjoy quick response times, while the higher frequencies help maintain playable frame rates in many contemporary titles when paired with a capable graphics card.
• Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 730 offers solid visuals for everyday tasks, online media streaming, and light gaming without needing a separate discrete GPU for basic workloads. This integrated solution helps you build a capable, compact system, test software, or run media-heavy applications with smooth playback and reliable display output, especially in builds where a discrete GPU isn’t essential.
• Memory flexibility with support for DDR4-3200 and DDR5-4800 on compatible motherboards. This versatility makes it easier to source memory based on your budget and system goals, while enabling strong memory bandwidth for accelerated multitasking and smoother data access. The CPU’s platform compatibility helps you choose between legacy DDR4 or newer DDR5 kits as your build evolves.
• 65W TDP and a non-K design emphasize efficiency and reliability for mainstream builds. The non-overclockable nature helps maintain thermals and power consumption within predictable ranges, making it a practical choice for quiet, steady performance in home or office environments. The result is a capable, dependable processor that balances performance with energy efficiency for day-to-day use and longer workloads.

Technical Details of Intel Core i5-12400

• Generation: 12th Gen Intel Core
• Model: i5-12400
• Cores/Threads: 6 / 12
• Base Frequency: 2.50 GHz
• Max Turbo Frequency: Up to 4.40 GHz
• Intel Smart Cache: Shared cache across cores to optimize performance
• Integrated Graphics: Intel UHD Graphics 730
• Memory Support: DDR4-3200 / DDR5-4800 (on compatible platforms)
• Socket: LGA 1700
• PCIe Support: PCIe 4.0 for graphics and storage
• Process Technology: Intel 7 (10nm-class lithography)
• TDP: 65W
• Packaging: Retail

How to install Intel Core i5-12400

• Prepare your platform: Confirm you have a compatible LGA 1700 motherboard with a suitable BIOS version and a cooling solution that fits your case and thermal needs. Ensure you have thermal paste if your cooler doesn’t include a pre-applied pad.
• Power down and unplug: Disconnect power from the system and ground yourself to minimize static discharge before handling components.
• Open the CPU socket: Lift the socket lever on the motherboard to access the CPU socket. Carefully align the processor with the socket markings. The i5-12400 uses an LGA 1700 design, so make sure the corner markers align precisely with the socket indicators.
• Install the CPU: Gently place the processor into the socket without applying force. If properly aligned, it should drop into place with minimal resistance. Secure the socket lever to lock the CPU in position.
• Apply cooling and thermal interface material: If you’re using a stock cooler or an aftermarket cooler, mount it according to the cooler’s instructions. Apply a thin, even layer of thermal paste if required and secure the cooler firmly to ensure good heat transfer.
• Connect power, update BIOS, and test: Reassemble the system, connect power cables, and boot. Enter the BIOS to confirm the CPU is detected and set any memory or fan profiles as needed. Update to the latest BIOS if recommended by your motherboard manufacturer for optimal compatibility with 12th Gen CPUs.
• Install an operating system and drivers: Once the system is running, install your preferred OS, chipset drivers, and any system utilities for best performance and stability.

Frequently asked questions

• Q: Is the Intel Core i5-12400 good for gaming? A: Yes. The i5-12400 delivers solid gaming performance thanks to its six-core design and strong single-thread capabilities. When paired with a capable discrete GPU, it can handle AAA titles at 1080p and 1440p with smooth frame rates in most settings. It’s an excellent choice for mainstream gaming builds where balance between price and performance matters.
• Q: Does this CPU support PCIe 5.0? A: No. The i5-12400 supports PCIe 4.0 lanes, which are more than sufficient for current high-speed graphics cards and NVMe solid-state drives. PCIe 5.0 is typically associated with newer, higher-end SKUs or platform-specific configurations, but this processor provides excellent performance within PCIe 4.0 limits.
• Q: What memory should I pair with the i5-12400? A: The processor supports DDR4-3200 and DDR5-4800 on compatible motherboards. For best overall performance, pair it with fast memory and a motherboard that matches your budget and upgrade path. Consider memory with tight timings and adequate capacity (e.g., 16GB or more) for multitasking and content creation tasks.
• Q: Do I need an unlocked “K” series motherboard to get extra performance? A: Not for this CPU. The i5-12400 is a non-K, non-overclockable processor, so you won’t gain performance by overclocking the CPU itself. You can still optimize system performance through motherboard tuning options, memory speed upgrades, and software optimizations, while maintaining stable, efficient operation.
• Q: Does the retail package include a cooler? A: Packaging variations exist by region and retailer. Some retail boxes include a stock cooler, while others may require purchasing a separate cooling solution. Always verify the contents in your specific SKU’s packaging details before purchase.