Intel Core 5 120F specifications and in-depth review

Intel Core 5 120F

Manufacturer: Intel

The Intel Core 5 120F is a desktop processor designed to offer reliable performance for various tasks. It features a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz across six cores and supports up to 12 threads, making it suitable for multi-threaded workloads. With a 65W TDP, this processor balances power efficiency with solid processing capability.

On the technical side, the Intel Core 5 120F supports PCIe 5.0 for faster data throughput and has a maximum RAM speed of 4800 MHz. It is equipped with 18 MB of L3 cache and can handle up to 192GB of DDR5 memory. While it does not have integrated graphics, it offers strong computational power with a turbo boost of 4.5 GHz for demanding tasks.

Pros
  • Supports DDR5 memory with a high maximum speed of 4800 MHz, allowing for faster data processing.
  • Has PCIe 5.0 support, providing enhanced bandwidth for compatible peripherals.
  • Includes multithreading, improving efficiency in handling multiple tasks simultaneously.
  • Equipped with a large 18 MB L3 cache, which helps to improve processing speed for intensive workloads.
Cons
  • Does not feature integrated graphics, requiring a separate GPU for display output.
  • Has a fixed clock multiplier and lacks an unlocked multiplier, limiting overclocking potential.
  • Does not support ECC memory, making it less suitable for environments where error correction is critical.
Who is this for?

The Intel Core 5 120F is well-suited for users who require solid, reliable processing power for everyday desktop tasks, including office work, light gaming, and content creation. Its support for DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0 ensures that it can handle modern applications and peripherals efficiently. Additionally, the multithreading capability allows users to run multiple tasks simultaneously without significant slowdowns, making it a good choice for multitaskers who need a stable and efficient CPU for work and general use.

Who is this NOT for?

This processor is not ideal for users who require high-end gaming performance or those working in environments demanding significant computational power, such as video editing or 3D rendering. Its lack of integrated graphics means it will need a discrete GPU for visual output, and its fixed clock multiplier limits overclocking potential, which may be a drawback for enthusiasts or power users seeking greater performance. Additionally, the absence of ECC memory support makes it less suitable for applications requiring data integrity, such as in servers or scientific computing.

General info:

Type Desktop
CPU socket LGA 1700
Has integrated graphics
release date August 2025
Thermal Design Power (TDP) 65W
semiconductor size 10 nm
CPU temperature 100 °C
PCI Express (PCIe) version 5
Supports 64-bit

The Intel Core 5 120F is a desktop CPU that uses the LGA 1700 socket and supports PCIe 5.0 for fast data transfer. With a thermal design power (TDP) of 65W, it provides efficient energy use while maintaining a maximum temperature of 100°C. The processor is built on a 10 nm semiconductor and fully supports 64-bit architecture. However, it does not feature integrated graphics, making it reliant on a discrete GPU for visual output.

Performance:

CPU speed 6 x 2.5 GHz
CPU threads 12 threads
turbo clock speed 4.5GHz
Has an unlocked multiplier
L2 cache 7.5 MB
L3 cache 18 MB
L2 core 1.25 MB/core
L3 core 3 MB/core
Uses big.LITTLE technology
clock multiplier 25
Turbo Boost version 2

The Intel Core 5 120F delivers solid performance with a base clock speed of 6 x 2.5 GHz and a turbo boost of 4.5 GHz, making it suitable for multitasking and demanding applications. With 12 threads, it can handle parallel processing efficiently. The processor also features 7.5 MB of L2 cache and 18 MB of L3 cache, which enhance its data handling capabilities. It does not support an unlocked multiplier, and it does not utilize big.LITTLE technology, focusing on a consistent performance approach instead.

Benchmarks:

Integrated graphics:

Memory:

RAM speed (max) 4800 MHz
maximum memory bandwidth 76.8 GB/s
DDR memory version 5
memory channels 2
maximum memory amount 192GB
Supports ECC memory

The Intel Core 5 120F supports DDR5 memory with a maximum speed of 4800 MHz, offering improved performance over earlier DDR generations. With a maximum memory bandwidth of 76.8 GB/s and two memory channels, it can efficiently handle demanding tasks. The processor supports up to 192GB of RAM, providing ample capacity for large applications. However, it does not support ECC memory, which means it is not designed for environments where error correction is critical.

Features:

instruction sets MMX, F16C, FMA3, AES, AVX, AVX2, SSE 4.1, SSE 4.2
uses multithreading
Has NX bit

The Intel Core 5 120F processor comes with a range of advanced features designed to enhance performance. It supports a variety of instruction sets, including MMX, AES, AVX, and SSE 4.2, enabling optimized execution of tasks. Additionally, it utilizes multithreading, which allows for more efficient processing across multiple tasks simultaneously. The processor also includes the NX bit, offering enhanced security by preventing the execution of certain types of malicious code.

Final Verdict

The Intel Core 5 120F is a solid desktop processor ideal for users seeking reliable everyday performance, with strong features such as multithreading and support for DDR5 memory and PCIe 5.0. While it excels in handling multitasking and modern applications, its lack of integrated graphics and overclocking capabilities may limit its appeal for gamers or performance enthusiasts. Overall, it is a dependable choice for those who need efficient processing power without the need for specialized high-performance tasks.

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