Intel

Intel Core i5-12490F

Expert rating7.4 / 10

Brand:: Intel
Form Factor:: Desktop
CPU Socket:: FCLGA1700
Core/Thread Count:: 6C/12T
TDP:: 65W
iGPU:: None
CPU Series:: Core i5

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Manufacturer: Intel Last updated: 2026-09-12

Intel Core i5-12490F Review

Intel Core i5-12490F 6-core 12-thread desktop processor, 3.0GHz base / 4.6GHz boost, 65W TDP, Alder Lake, LGA 1700 socket

The Intel Core i5-12490F is a mainstream desktop processor without integrated graphics, for builds already using a discrete GPU. It pairs 6 cores and 12 threads with a 3.0GHz base clock that boosts up to 4.6GHz and None graphics, all within a 65W envelope.

Performance and Architecture

With 6 cores and 12 threads, the Intel Core i5-12490F runs a 3.0GHz base clock that boosts up to 4.6GHz, backed by 18MB of L3 cache and None graphics on the Alder Lake architecture.

Platform and Deployment

The Intel Core i5-12490F uses the LGA 1700 platform in a 65W envelope, positioned as a mainstream desktop processor without integrated graphics, for builds already using a discrete GPU..

Comparison to Alternatives

Within the Core i5 lineup in this catalog, the Intel Core i5-12490F sits at the 6-core tier, differentiated mainly by clock speed, TDP, and socket from its closest siblings. Against AMD's Ryzen desktop processors in this catalog at a similar tier, the Intel Core i5-12490F competes on platform ecosystem and per-core efficiency, while against Intel's own Core Ultra desktop parts in this catalog it occupies a narrower, more specialized deployment niche.

Our verdict

Reviewed by Burooj Alam. Rated by us, not by users.

Expert rating7.4 / 10

The Intel Core i5-12490F trims integrated graphics for a lower price, aimed at builds already running a discrete GPU.

Best for

Desktop gaming with a discrete GPU
Budget-conscious builds
Everyday productivity

Not for

Systems without a discrete GPU
HTPCs needing video output
Ultra-low-power builds

Specifications

What these specs mean

Identity

Product Line	Core
Model Number	i5-12490F
Codename	Alder Lake
Release Year	2022

Segment and platform

Market Segment	Desktop
Microarchitecture	Alder Lake
Socket	FCLGA1700
Socket Status	Mature
Process Node	7 nm

Core configuration

Total Cores	6
Performance Cores	6
Efficiency Cores	0
Total Threads	12
SMT Enabled	Yes

Clock speeds

P-Core Base Clock	3.0 GHz
P-Core Boost Clock	4.6 GHz
Unlocked Multiplier	No

Cache

L2 Cache	7.5 MB
L3 Cache	20 MB

Power and thermal

Base Power	65 W
Max Turbo Power	117 W

Memory

Memory Type	DDR5, DDR4
Max Memory Speed	4800 MT/s
Memory Channels	2
Max Memory Capacity	128 GB

Graphics and AI

Integrated Graphics	No
Copilot Plus Certified	No

Expansion

PCIe Generation	PCIe 5.0
PCIe Lanes	20

Commercial

Retail Availability	Tray OEM

Form Factor	Desktop
TDP	65 W
iGPU	None

FAQs

What are the key specifications of the Intel Core i5-12490F?

The Intel Core i5-12490F has 6 cores and 12 threads, a 3.0 GHz base and 4.6 GHz boost clock, 20 MB of L3 cache and a 65 W TDP. It has no integrated graphics, so it needs a graphics card. Socket: FCLGA1700.

Will the Intel Core i5-12490F work with my current setup?

The Intel Core i5-12490F lists Socket is FCLGA1700. Check that against the hardware you already own before buying, since this is the field that most often decides whether a part fits.

Who is the Intel Core i5-12490F best suited to?

Best suited to: Desktop gaming with a discrete GPU; Budget-conscious builds; Everyday productivity.

What are the drawbacks of the Intel Core i5-12490F?

Not the best fit for: Systems without a discrete GPU; HTPCs needing video output; Ultra-low-power builds.