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Intel has upped the stakes in the desktop processor market with the introduction of their Core i9-14900KS, a top-tier CPU that distinguishes itself with its impressive P-Core turbo clock speeds, peaking at 6.2 GHz.
As you look for a processor that offers peak performance, the i9-14900KS stands out as the epitome of speed, representing the foremost option currently available in terms of frequency potential.
In this iteration, Intel is leveraging their established Raptor Lake silicon to new heights, offering an additional 200 MHz over its predecessors.
This processor is aimed at enthusiasts seeking unparalleled performance from their desktop rigs. Intel capitalizes on the legacy of their Raptor Lake design, presenting a final flourish of power with the i9-14900KS, while remaining mindful of the impending transition to newer architectures.
Your investment in this CPU not only guarantees raw speed, but also marks a farewell tribute to the Alder/Raptor lineage with substantial electricity requirements and a monetary commitment of $689.
Intel’s Core i9-14900KS Peaks at 6.2 GHz for a Premium Price Tag
With the Intel Core i9-14900KS, you’re looking at the pinnacle of the Raptor Lake-R series. This processor outpaces its predecessor by reaching an impressive 6.2 GHz with the Performance-core (P-core) turbo, a notable 200 MHz increase from the Core i9-14900K.
Enhanced-Core (E-core) turbo is also bumped up to 4.5 GHz, representing a 100 MHz increment. The core configuration itself remains consistent with the previous model, featuring an 8 Performance-core and 16 Efficient-core setup to support up to 32 threads in parallel.
Key Specifications:
- P-Core Base / Max Turbo: 3.2 GHz / 6.2 GHz
- E-Core Base / Max Turbo: 2.4 GHz / 4.5 GHz
- Cores / Threads: 8P+16E / 32
- L3 Cache: 36 MB
- Integrated Graphics: Intel UHD 770
Beyond the raw speed, this CPU retains the same 36 MB smart cache and the Intel UHD 770 integrated graphics found in the standard Core i9-14900K.
Premium Performance Out of the Box
The Core i9-14900KS shines as it provides you with the highest possible clock speeds without the need for manual overclocking, embodying the finest silicon Intel offers for the 14th Gen Core series.
As the above-the-board option in the lineup, it challenges the status quo by establishing itself as the quickest x86 processor available off-the-shelf.
Power and Thermal Dynamics
Your power supply and cooling setup will play critical roles, as this CPU bears a higher base power at 150 W—a rise from the 125 W of its kinsman—and an “extreme” configurable turbo power level of 320 W, meaning premium cooling solutions are imperative for maintaining peak performance.
Thermal Design Power (TDP) and Turbo Power Limits:
- Base TDP: 150 W
- PL1/PL2 Turbo Power Limit: 253 W / 320 W (extreme profile)
Power Consumption Comparison:
- Core i9-14900K Peak Power: Around 375 W
- Core i9-14900KS Base TDP: 150 W, with the capability to exceed beyond Intel’s stated turbo power limits with high-end enthusiast motherboards
Cooling Considerations
You will require top-tier, efficient cooling solutions to wield this processor’s full capabilities.
Options range from custom water-cooling kits to specialized TEC (Thermoelectric Cooling) solutions like EKWB’s EK-Quantum Delta TEC D-RGB. These are essential to take advantage of the advertised 6.2 GHz clock speeds and handle substantial power draw during intensive tasks.
Performance Indicators
Intel’s Thermal Velocity Boost (TVB) is critical for achieving the top 6.2 GHz turbo state, and the processor must have ample thermal headroom to reach this potential.
Sub-optimal cooling may restrict you to the Turbo Boost Max 3.0 limit of 5.9 GHz.
Expected Gaming Performance Improvements:
- Up to 15% increase in specific titles when compared to the previous KS model.
Computational Performance Edge:
- Against AMD’s Ryzen 9 7950X, you can anticipate advantages in tasks, with predicted gains in popular benchmarks.
Compatibility and Support
Your existing Z690 or Z790 chipset motherboards, along with DDR5 or DDR4 memory schemes, will accommodate this processor.
Remember, a robust power delivery system is imperative given the KS series’ substantial power requirements.
When you opt for the Intel Core i9-14900KS, be prepared to invest not only in the chip itself but also in a robust power supply and a potent cooling method.
Your investments will yield you the forefront of processor speed and computing performance Intel currently offers for the desktop market.