The Intel Core Ultra 5 235F is the objective winner of this comparison, securing victory in eleven out of sixteen measured specifications. Its most significant technical advantage over the Intel Core i5-12400F is its L2 cache, which is 167% larger. While the Intel Core i5-12400F maintains a 9% advantage regarding its MSRP, the Intel Core Ultra 5 235F demonstrates superior hardware specifications across the majority of the evaluated categories.

Users prioritizing raw technical specifications and the benefits of a significantly larger L2 cache should choose the Intel Core Ultra 5 235F for their build. Conversely, the Intel Core i5-12400F remains the appropriate selection for budget-conscious buyers who prioritize a lower MSRP. Your final decision should depend on whether you value the increased cache capacity of the newer model or the cost savings offered by the older processor.