SYSTEM ANALYZER

Rate My PC: Intel Core i9-12900KF + NVIDIA RTX 4000 Ada Generation

Get a comprehensive performance analysis of your gaming rig with detailed benchmarks, bottleneck detection, and upgrade recommendations

96 / 100
ULTIMATE READY

Apex Performer

Top 4% of systems. Capable of 4K Ultra gaming and advanced rendering.

4K 60+ FPSVR ReadyRay Tracing

System Balance Analysis

CPU vs GPU performance ratio
Well Balanced
CPU
93%
VS
GPU
99%
PROCESSOR

Intel Core i9-12900KF

42,830 Benchmark Score
Top 7% Market Ranking
View Full Specs →
GRAPHICS CARD

NVIDIA RTX 4000 Ada Generation

135,218 Benchmark Score
Top 1% Market Ranking
View Full Specs →

Market Position

How your build compares to others
Budget
0-30
Mid-Range
30-60
High-End
60-85
Enthusiast
85-100
Your Build

Game Performance Benchmarks

Real-world 4K FPS in popular titles
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Performance Insights

Tips to maximize your system

Optimal Performance

Your system is in the top tier. You can run any modern game at maximum settings.

4K Gaming Ready

Consider a 4K 144Hz monitor to fully utilize your hardware capabilities.

Compatible Games See what you can play Compare CPUs Find upgrades Compare GPUs Find upgrades

Performance Tiers Explained

90-100

Ultimate

4K Ultra gaming, VR ready, ray tracing enabled, professional workloads

4K 60+ FPS VR Ready
70-89

High-End

1440p Ultra or 4K High settings, excellent for modern AAA titles

1440p Ultra 4K High
50-69

Mid-Range

1080p Ultra or 1440p Medium, great value for most gamers

1080p Ultra 1440p Med
30-49

Entry Level

1080p Medium settings, suitable for eSports and older titles

1080p Med eSports
0-29

Legacy

Basic gaming, older titles, consider upgrading for modern games

720p-1080p Low Older Games

Balance and Bottleneck

This desktop pairing combines Intel’s 16-core Alder Lake flagship with NVIDIA’s workstation-class AD104 GPU, and the data shows a system tuned for parallel throughput rather than single-thread heroics. The CPU’s 3DMark scores reveal a clear scaling pattern: single-thread performance sits at 1069, but the 16-thread result jumps to 9860, and max-thread output reaches 11586. That is a 9.2x improvement from one thread to sixteen, indicating strong multi-core scaling that keeps the processor busy in heavily threaded workloads. However, the GPU’s 95th percentile standing among all GPUs, combined with the CPU’s 88th percentile among all CPUs, suggests the graphics card is the more dominant component in this pairing.

The bottleneck analysis hinges on workload type. In gaming, where frame generation depends heavily on GPU rasterization and ray tracing, the RTX 4000 Ada’s 26.73 TFLOPS FP32 throughput and 48 RT cores will likely outpace what the CPU’s 16 cores can feed at lower resolutions. Benchmark results indicate the CPU’s 3DMark 2-thread score of 2112 and 4-thread score of 4132 are respectable but not exceptional for high-refresh 1080p gaming, where per-core performance often limits frame rates. At 1440p or 4K, the GPU becomes the primary constraint, and the CPU’s 24 threads provide ample headroom to process game logic and physics without stalling. For content creation, the CPU’s Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 34420 and PassMark multi-thread score of 40970 indicate it can sustain heavy rendering loads, but the GPU’s 146593 Geekbench OpenCL score suggests GPU-accelerated tasks will finish far quicker than CPU-only workflows.

The FPS scaling evidence is absent from the FACT PACK — there are no measured FPS rows for this exact combination. Frame rates must therefore be estimated from the benchmark scores. The CPU’s 88th percentile and GPU’s 95th percentile, combined with a 92nd combined percentile, point to a balanced system where neither component severely limits the other in most scenarios. The GPU’s 360.0 GB/s memory bandwidth and 20 GB VRAM capacity eliminate memory-related bottlenecks in large textures or datasets, while the CPU’s 30 MB shared L3 cache reduces latency for frequently accessed data. In CPU-bound tasks like software compilation or spreadsheet calculations, the processor’s PassMark integer math score of 138932 and data compression score of 537785 indicate it handles the workload, with the GPU sitting idle. Conversely, in GPU-bound tasks like 3D rendering or video encoding, the graphics card’s 6144 shading units and 192 tensor cores dominate, and the CPU merely feeds data.

Benchmark Performance

The combined percentile for this pair sits at 92, placing it in the top decile of all desktop builds. The CPU’s average benchmark score is 42830, which falls just 0.2% behind the Intel Core i9-12900 (42906) and 0.9% ahead of the Intel Core i9-12950HX (42487). The closest rival, the Intel Core i9-12900K, scores 42335, putting this KF variant 1.2% ahead. The GPU’s average benchmark score of 135218 matches the NVIDIA A10M (135230) within 0% delta, trails the AMD Radeon PRO W6800 by 0.1% (135396), and sits 0.4% behind the AMD Radeon Pro W6800X Duo (135774). The GPU’s Geekbench OpenCL score of 146593 and Vulkan score of 123842 reflect strong compute performance, though the Vulkan result is notably lower, suggesting driver overhead or API-specific optimization differences.

The CPU’s individual benchmark results paint a detailed picture. Cinebench R23 multi-core reaches 34420, while single-core hits 4859. The R20 scores are 14456 multi-core and 2040 single-core. PassMark single-thread scores 4144, with multi-thread at 40970. The 3DMark suite shows scaling from 1069 single-thread to 11586 max-thread. Geekbench multi-core scores 18113, single-core 2361. These numbers place the CPU at the 88th percentile, meaning it outperforms 88% of all CPUs in the database. The GPU, at the 95th percentile, outperforms 95% of all GPUs, making it the stronger component relative to its peers. The combined picture is a workstation-class system where the GPU provides the headline performance, but the CPU’s multi-core throughput ensures no major bottleneck in parallel workloads.

CPU Analysis

The Intel Core i9-12900KF is a 16-core, 24-thread processor built on Intel’s 10 nm Alder Lake architecture, with a die size of 215 mm². It features a base clock of 3.20 GHz and a boost clock of 5.20 GHz, with an unlocked multiplier for overclocking. The cache hierarchy includes 80 KB L1 per core, 1.25 MB L2 per core, and 30 MB shared L3. Memory support covers both DDR4 and DDR5 via a dual-channel bus, though ECC memory is not supported. The CPU provides PCIe Gen 4 with 20 lanes from the processor. The TDP is 125 W, and the launch MSRP is $564.

The benchmark scores indicate a processor that excels in multi-threaded workloads. The Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 34420 is 7.1x the single-core score of 4859, demonstrating excellent scaling across its 16 cores. The 3DMark max-thread score of 11586 is 10.8x the single-thread score of 1069, further confirming strong parallel efficiency. PassMark results show high throughput in integer math (138932), floating-point math (105558), and data encryption (29502), with extended instructions scoring 33779. The data compression score of 537785 is particularly strong, indicating efficient use of the 30 MB L3 cache for compression workloads. The single-thread PassMark score of 4144 is competitive but not class-leading, meaning lightly threaded applications like older games or office tools will perform adequately but not spectacularly.

The 0.2% deficit to the Core i9-12900 and 1.2% advantage over the Core i9-12900K suggest the KF variant is effectively performance-equivalent to its siblings, with the KF’s lack of integrated graphics being the only differentiator. The 0.8% lead over the Core i9-12950HX (a mobile part) and 0.9% deficit to the Core Ultra 9 386H indicate this desktop processor remains competitive against newer architectures in aggregate scoring. For real workloads, the 24 threads handle video encoding, 3D rendering, and software compilation with ease, while the 5.20 GHz boost clock provides responsive single-thread performance for daily tasks.

Who Should Build It

This pairing targets users who need both strong multi-core CPU performance and workstation-grade GPU compute. Gamers at 1440p or 4K resolution will benefit from the GPU’s 95th percentile standing, which indicates it can drive high frame rates at those resolutions, while the CPU’s 24 threads prevent bottlenecks in modern games that use multiple cores. Content creators working with video editing software that leverages GPU acceleration will see the 146593 OpenCL score translate to fast renders, while the CPU’s Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 34420 handles CPU-based effects and timeline scrubbing. 3D artists using applications that support ray tracing will leverage the GPU’s 48 RT cores, and the 20 GB VRAM accommodates large scenes without texture swapping.

Software developers compiling large codebases will appreciate the PassMark integer math score of 138932 and multi-thread score of 40970, which indicate rapid build times. Students in engineering or data science programs can run simulations and machine learning models using the GPU’s 192 tensor cores, while the CPU’s 16 cores handle data preprocessing. Small business workstations running virtualization or database workloads will find the 24 threads and 30 MB L3 cache sufficient for concurrent tasks, and the GPU’s 360.0 GB/s bandwidth supports large data transfers. The lack of integrated graphics on the KF CPU means a discrete GPU is mandatory, but this pairing already includes one. The 92nd combined percentile positions this build as a high-end workstation that competes with systems costing significantly more, though pricing is not discussed here.

Upgrade Path and Platform

The CPU uses the Intel Socket 1700 platform, which supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory. This flexibility allows builders to choose between cost-effective DDR4 or higher-bandwidth DDR5, though the dual-channel bus limits maximum bandwidth compared to quad-channel platforms. The PCIe Gen 4 x16 interface for the GPU provides adequate bandwidth for the RTX 4000 Ada, and the CPU’s 20 PCIe lanes allow for one additional Gen 4 NVMe drive or other expansion cards. The GPU’s 130 W TDP and 300 W suggested PSU rating indicate the system has ample power headroom, as the CPU’s 125 W TDP combined with the GPU’s 130 W TDP totals 255 W, leaving room for other components within the 300 W suggestion.

A sensible next upgrade would be adding more PCIe Gen 4 storage, as the CPU’s 20 lanes support multiple NVMe drives. Memory capacity can be expanded, though the dual-channel bus means adding more RAM increases capacity rather than bandwidth. The GPU’s single-slot design and 245 mm length allow for compact builds, and the 4x DisplayPort 1.4a outputs support multi-monitor setups. The CPU’s unlocked multiplier enables overclocking, though the 125 W TDP may require a capable air cooler or liquid cooler for sustained boost clocks. The platform does not support ECC memory, so users requiring error correction must look elsewhere. The PCIe Gen 4 interface is not backward compatible with Gen 5 devices, but current GPUs and NVMe drives do not require Gen 5 bandwidth.

Usage Scenarios

High-refresh gaming: At 1080p, the CPU’s single-thread score of 4144 in PassMark may limit frame rates in esports titles, but the GPU’s 26.73 TFLOPS FP32 throughput ensures high FPS at 1440p and 4K. The 95th GPU percentile indicates this card can drive refresh rates above 144 Hz in most titles at 1440p, though exact figures are estimates.

Streaming: The CPU’s 24 threads handle encoding via software x264, with a PassMark multi-thread score of 40970 indicating sufficient headroom. The GPU’s NVENC (not listed in the FACT PACK, so not discussed) would offload encoding, but the CPU can manage it alone. The 30 MB L3 cache reduces frame drops during simultaneous gaming and encoding.

Video editing: The GPU’s Geekbench OpenCL score of 146593 accelerates effects and color grading in applications like Premiere Pro or DaVinci Resolve. The CPU’s Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 34420 handles timeline rendering and export, while the 20 GB VRAM allows for 4K and 8K timelines without proxy files.

3D rendering: The GPU’s 6144 shading units and 48 RT cores deliver ray-traced renders, with the 360.0 GB/s bandwidth managing large scenes. The CPU’s 16 cores provide backup for CPU-based render engines, with a Geekbench multi-core score of 18113 indicating solid performance.

Software development: The PassMark integer math score of 138932 and data compression score of 537785 speed up compilation and version control operations. The 24 threads handle parallel builds, and the 30 MB L3 cache reduces recompilation times for incremental builds.

Student and office work: The CPU’s single-thread score of 2361 in Geekbench and 4144 in PassMark handle spreadsheets, documents, and browsing with ease. The GPU’s 95th percentile is overkill for these tasks, but the system’s 92nd combined percentile ensures it will remain responsive for years.

Gaming Performance

The FACT PACK contains no measured FPS data for this exact combination. There are no rows in measuredFpsUltraByGame, and dataIsMeasured is false. All FPS figures presented here are estimates derived from the benchmark scores and should be treated as approximations. The CPU’s 88th percentile and GPU’s 95th percentile suggest a system that excels at high-resolution gaming. The GPU’s 26.73 TFLOPS FP32 throughput and 360.0 GB/s memory bandwidth indicate it can handle ultra settings at 1440p and 4K, while the CPU’s 24 threads prevent stuttering in CPU-intensive game logic.

At 1080p, the CPU’s single-thread performance (1069 in 3DMark single-thread) may become the limiting factor in esports titles, but the GPU’s raw power ensures high frame rates. At 1440p, the GPU takes over as the primary bottleneck, and the 95th percentile position suggests it outperforms 95% of GPUs, enabling high-refresh gaming. At 4K, the GPU’s 20 GB VRAM prevents memory capacity issues, and the 360.0 GB/s bandwidth supports high-resolution textures. The lack of measured data means these are educated guesses, but the benchmark scores provide a solid foundation for these estimates. The GPU’s 48 RT cores support ray-traced effects, though the exact performance impact is unknown without measured data.

FAQ

Q: What is the CPU’s core and thread count?

A: The Intel Core i9-12900KF has 16 cores and 24 threads, with a base clock of 3.20 GHz and a boost clock of 5.20 GHz.

Q: How much VRAM does the RTX 4000 Ada have, and what is its memory bandwidth?

A: The GPU has 20 GB of GDDR6 memory on a 160-bit bus, providing 360.0 GB/s of bandwidth.

Q: What is the combined percentile of this CPU and GPU pairing?

A: The combined percentile is 92, placing it in the top 8% of all desktop builds in the database.

Q: Does the CPU support ECC memory?

A: No, ECC memory is not supported. The CPU supports DDR4 and DDR5 memory via a dual-channel bus.

Q: What is the GPU’s TDP and suggested PSU rating?

A: The GPU has a TDP of 130 W, and the suggested PSU rating is 300 W.

Q: How does the CPU compare to the Intel Core i9-12900K?

A: The i9-12900KF scores 42830 on average, which is 1.2% higher than the i9-12900K’s 42335.

Q: What is the GPU’s architecture and process node?

A: The GPU uses the Ada Lovelace architecture on TSMC’s 5 nm process, with 35,800 million transistors on a 294 mm² die.

GPU Analysis

The NVIDIA RTX 4000 Ada Generation is a workstation GPU built on the Ada Lovelace architecture, using the AD104 chip manufactured on TSMC’s 5 nm process. The die contains 35,800 million transistors across 294 mm², yielding a transistor density of 121.8 million per square millimeter. The GPU has 6144 shading units, 192 texture mapping units, and 64 ROPs. It includes 48 RT cores and 192 tensor cores, supporting real-time ray tracing and AI-accelerated workloads. The base clock is 1500 MHz, with a boost clock of 2175 MHz. Memory is 20 GB of GDDR6 on a 160-bit bus, with a memory clock of 2250 MHz (18 Gbps effective), providing 360.0 GB/s of bandwidth.

The pixel rate is 139.2 GPixel/s, and the texture rate is 417.6 GTexel/s. FP32 compute reaches 26.73 TFLOPS, with FP16 at 26.73 TFLOPS (1:1 ratio). The GPU supports DirectX 12 Ultimate (12_2), OpenGL 4.6, and Vulkan 1.4. Display outputs include 4x DisplayPort 1.4a. The card is single-slot, 245 mm long and 112 mm high, with a 1x 16-pin power connector and a 130 W TDP. The suggested PSU is 300 W. The GPU’s average benchmark score is 135218, placing it at the 95th percentile. Geekbench OpenCL scores 146593, and Vulkan scores 123842.

The nearest rivals show tight competition: the NVIDIA A10M matches the score at 135230 (0% delta), the AMD Radeon PRO W6800 scores 135396 (-0.1%), the AMD Radeon Pro W6800X Duo scores 135774 (-0.4%), and the AMD Radeon PRO V620 scores 136472 (-0.9%). This indicates the RTX 4000 Ada is performance-equivalent to its closest competitors, with differences within 1%. For rendering, the 6144 shading units and 26.73 TFLOPS FP32 throughput handle dense pixel workloads, while the 48 RT cores accelerate ray-traced scenes. The 192 tensor cores support DLSS and AI denoising, and the 20 GB VRAM accommodates large datasets and high-resolution textures. The 360.0 GB/s bandwidth is adequate for 4K rendering but may be a limitation for 8K or massive simulation datasets. The 95th percentile ranking confirms this GPU outperforms the vast majority of graphics cards in the database, making it a strong choice for professional visualization and compute tasks.