Intel has unexpectedly increased the prices of several 12th-, 13th- and 14th-generation processors. The company’s changes appear to target the mid-range market— including popular models like the Core i5-12400—likely as a move to improve profit margins.
The adjustment follows the underwhelming launch of the Arrow Lake lineup.
Intel’s position in the CPU market has long been under scrutiny: the company has repeatedly acknowledged weaker performance compared with AMD. In the gaming PC sector, AMD has captured a large share of Intel’s customers, leaving Intel feeling increased pressure.
According to multiple reports, prices for 12th–14th generation processors have risen between 6% and 20% across various countries. For example, the Core i3-14100F jumped about 15%, while the Core i5-14600KF rose roughly 13%. In Japan and parts of Europe popular models—including the Core i5-14400—have seen increases up to 20%. Prices for high-end Core i7 and Core i9 chips changed only marginally.
The mid-range segment—particularly Core i5 models—was hit hardest; the hike appears strategic and tied to Intel’s waning popularity. Observers point to sluggish Arrow Lake sales versus AMD’s Zen family as the primary driver.
It remains to be seen how the market will respond: the Core i5-12400 remains favored for its affordability, but higher prices could push more buyers toward AMD.
Source: iXBT.games