The AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victories in ten out of fourteen measured categories. Its most significant technical advantage over the Intel Core i5-12600K is its L3 cache capacity, which is 540% larger. This substantial difference in cache size represents the primary performance differentiator between the two processors, establishing the former as the superior option based on the provided hardware specifications.

Users prioritizing maximum cache capacity and overall technical superiority should select the AMD Ryzen 9 7950X3D for their build. Conversely, those who prioritize a lower MSRP should choose the Intel Core i5-12600K, as it holds a 59% advantage in that specific category. Your final decision should depend on whether you value the extensive cache benefits of the higher-performing chip or the cost-related advantage offered by the alternative.