I5 9600k i9 9900k: Intel Core i5-9600K vs i9-9900K

Why is Intel Core i9-9900K better than Intel Core i5-9600K?

• 29.73% faster CPU speed?
  8 x 3.6GHzvs6 x 3.7GHz
• 10 more CPU threads?
  16vs6
• 0.5MB bigger L2 cache?
  2MBvs1.5MB
• 1.74x higher PassMark result?
  18898vs10878
• 0.4GHz higher turbo clock speed?
  5GHzvs4.6GHz
• 7MB bigger L3 cache?
  16MBvs9MB
• 128KB bigger L1 cache?
  512KBvs384KB
• 7.22% higher PassMark result (single)?
  2986vs2785

Which are the most popular comparisons?

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

AMD Ryzen 3 3200G

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

Apple M1 Pro (10-core)

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

AMD Ryzen 5 3600

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

Intel Core i7-8700K

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

Intel Core i9-9900

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

Intel Core i7-6700

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

Intel Core i5-12600K

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

Intel Core i7-9700K

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

AMD Ryzen 7 5800X

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

AMD Ryzen 5 5600X

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

AMD Ryzen 5 3600

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

Intel Core i5-9600KF

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

Intel Core i7-9700K

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

AMD Ryzen 5 5600G

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

AMD Ryzen 9 5900X

Intel Core i5-9600K

vs

Intel Core i5-10400

Intel Core i9-9900K

vs

Intel Core i9-9900KF

Price comparison

Cheap alternatives

User reviews

Overall Rating

Intel Core i5-9600K

1 User reviews

Intel Core i5-9600K

10. 0/10

1 User reviews

Intel Core i9-9900K

4 User reviews

Intel Core i9-9900K

8.8/10

4 User reviews

Features

Value for money

10.0/10

1 votes

8.5/10

4 votes

Gaming

10.0/10

1 votes

9.3/10

4 votes

Performance

10.0/10

1 votes

9.5/10

4 votes

Reliability

10.0/10

1 votes

9.0/10

4 votes

Energy efficiency

8.0/10

1 votes

8.8/10

4 votes

Performance

1.CPU speed

6 x 3.7GHz

8 x 3.6GHz

The CPU speed indicates how many processing cycles per second can be executed by a CPU, considering all of its cores (processing units). It is calculated by adding the clock rates of each core or, in the case of multi-core processors employing different microarchitectures, of each group of cores.

2.CPU threads

More threads result in faster performance and better multitasking.

3.turbo clock speed

4.6GHz

When the CPU is running below its limitations, it can boost to a higher clock speed in order to give increased performance.

4.Has an unlocked multiplier

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

Some processors come with an unlocked multiplier which makes them easy to overclock, allowing you to gain increased performance in games and other apps.

5.L2 cache

A larger L2 cache results in faster CPU and system-wide performance.

6.L3 cache

A larger L3 cache results in faster CPU and system-wide performance.

7.L1 cache

A larger L1 cache results in faster CPU and system-wide performance.

8. L2 core

0.25MB/core

0.25MB/core

More data can be stored in the L2 cache for access by each core of the CPU.

9.L3 core

1.5MB/core

2MB/core

More data can be stored in the L3 cache for access by each core of the CPU.

Memory

1.RAM speed

2666MHz

2666MHz

It can support faster memory, which will give quicker system performance.

2.maximum memory bandwidth

41.6GB/s

41.6GB/s

This is the maximum rate that data can be read from or stored into memory.

3.DDR memory version

DDR (Double Data Rate) memory is the most common type of RAM. Newer versions of DDR memory support higher maximum speeds and are more energy-efficient.

4.memory channels

More memory channels increases the speed of data transfer between the memory and the CPU.

5. maximum memory amount

The maximum amount of memory (RAM) supported.

6.bus transfer rate

The bus is responsible for transferring data between different components of a computer or device.

7.Supports ECC memory

✖Intel Core i5-9600K

✖Intel Core i9-9900K

Error-correcting code memory can detect and correct data corruption. It is used when is it essential to avoid corruption, such as scientific computing or when running a server.

8.eMMC version

Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-9600K)

Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i9-9900K)

A higher version of eMMC allows faster memory interfaces, having a positive effect on the performance of a device. For example, when transferring files from your computer to the internal storage over USB.

9.bus speed

Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-9600K)

Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i9-9900K)

The bus is responsible for transferring data between different components of a computer or device.

Benchmarks

1.PassMark result

This benchmark measures the performance of the CPU using multiple threads.

2.PassMark result (single)

This benchmark measures the performance of the CPU using a single thread.

3.Geekbench 5 result (multi)

Geekbench 5 is a cross-platform benchmark that measures a processor’s multi-core performance. (Source: Primate Labs, 2022)

4.Cinebench R20 (multi) result

Cinebench R20 is a benchmark tool that measures a CPU’s multi-core performance by rendering a 3D scene.

5.Cinebench R20 (single) result

Cinebench R20 is a benchmark tool that measures a CPU’s single-core performance by rendering a 3D scene.

6.Geekbench 5 result (single)

Geekbench 5 is a cross-platform benchmark that measures a processor’s single-core performance. (Source: Primate Labs, 2022)

7.Blender (bmw27) result

303.7seconds

164.2seconds

The Blender (bmw27) benchmark measures the performance of a processor by rendering a 3D scene. More powerful processors can render the scene in less time.

8.Blender (classroom) result

980.5seconds

544seconds

The Blender (classroom) benchmark measures the performance of a processor by rendering a 3D scene. More powerful processors can render the scene in less time.

9.performance per watt

This means the CPU is more efficient, giving a greater amount of performance for each watt of power used.

Features

1.uses multithreading

✖Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

Multithreading technology (such as Intel’s Hyperthreading or AMD’s Simultaneous Multithreading) provides increased performance by splitting each of the processor’s physical cores into virtual cores, also known as threads. This way, each core can run two instruction streams at once.

2.Has AES

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

AES is used to speed up encryption and decryption.

3.Has AVX

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

AVX is used to help speed up calculations in multimedia, scientific and financial apps, as well as improving Linux RAID software performance.

4.SSE version

SSE is used to speed up multimedia tasks such as editing an image or adjusting audio volume. Each new version contains new instructions and improvements.

5.Has F16C

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

F16C is used to speed up tasks such as adjusting the contrast of an image or adjusting volume.

6.bits executed at a time

Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-9600K)

Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i9-9900K)

NEON provides acceleration for media processing, such as listening to MP3s.

7.Has MMX

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

MMX is used to speed up tasks such as adjusting the contrast of an image or adjusting volume.

8.Has TrustZone

✖Intel Core i5-9600K

✖Intel Core i9-9900K

A technology integrated into the processor to secure the device for use with features such as mobile payments and streaming video using digital rights management (DRM).

9.front-end width

Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i5-9600K)

Unknown. Help us by suggesting a value. (Intel Core i9-9900K)

The CPU can decode more instructions per clock (IPC), meaning that the CPU performs better

Price comparison

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Which are the best CPUs?

Intel Core i9 9900K vs i5 9600K: performance comparison

VS

Intel Core i9 9900K

Intel Core i5 9600K

We compared two desktop CPUs: the 3. 6 GHz Intel Core i9 9900K with 8-cores against the 3.7 GHz i5 9600K with 6-cores. On this page, you’ll find out which processor has better performance in benchmarks, games and other useful information.

1. Review
2. Differences
3. Performance
4. Specs
5. Comments

Review

General overview and comparison of the processors

Single-Core Performance

Performance in single-threaded apps and benchmarks

Core i9 9900K

69

Core i5 9600K

64

Performance

Measure performance when all cores are involved

Core i9 9900K

55

Core i5 9600K

33

Power Efficiency

The efficiency score of electricity consumption

Core i9 9900K

46

Core i5 9600K

46

NanoReview Final Score

Generic CPU rating

Core i9 9900K

58

Core i5 9600K

48

Key Differences

What are the key differences between 9600K and 9900K

Advantages of Intel Core i9 9900K

• Has 7 MB larger L3 cache size
• Has 2 more physical cores
• 9% higher Turbo Boost frequency (5 GHz vs 4. 6 GHz)

Benchmarks

Comparing the performance of CPUs in benchmarks

Cinebench R23 (Single-Core)

Core i9 9900K
+13%

1332

Core i5 9600K

1183

Cinebench R23 (Multi-Core)

Core i9 9900K
+88%

12359

Core i5 9600K

6584

Passmark CPU (Single-Core)

Core i9 9900K
+7%

2945

Core i5 9600K

2764

Passmark CPU (Multi-Core)

Core i9 9900K
+74%

18709

Core i5 9600K

10783

Geekbench 5 (Single-Core)

Core i9 9900K
+6%

1268

Core i5 9600K

1197

Geekbench 5 (Multi-Core)

Core i9 9900K
+49%

8410

Core i5 9600K

5654

▶️ Submit your Cinebench R23 result

By purchasing through links on this site, we may receive a commission from Amazon. This does not affect our assessment methodology.

Specifications

Full technical specification of Intel Core i9 9900K and i5 9600K

General

Performance

Cores	8	6
Threads	16	6
Base Frequency	3. 6 GHz	3.7 GHz
Turbo Boost Frequency	5 GHz	4.6 GHz
Bus frequency	100 MHz	100 MHz
Multiplier	36x	37x
Bus Bandwidth	8 GT/s	8 GT/s
L1 Cache	64K (per core)	64K (per core)
L2 Cache	256K (per core)	256K (per core)
L3 Cache	16MB (shared)	9MB (shared)
Unlocked Multiplier	Yes	Yes

Integrated Graphics	Intel UHD Graphics 630	Intel UHD Graphics 630
GPU Base Clock	350 MHz	350 MHz
GPU Boost Clock	1200 MHz	1150 MHz
Shading Units	192	192
TMUs	24	24
ROPs	3	3
Execution Units	24	24
TGP	15 W	15 W
Max. Resolution	4096×2304 — 60 Hz	4096×2304 — 60 Hz

iGPU FLOPS

Core i9 9900K

0.38 TFLOPS

Core i5 9600K

0.38 TFLOPS

Memory support

Official site	Intel Core i9 9900K official page	Intel Core i5 9600K official page
PCI Express Version	3.0	3.0
PCI Express Lanes	16	16
Extended instructions	SSE4. 1, SSE4.2, AVX-2	SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX-2

Cast your vote

Choose between two processors

Core i9 9900K

26 (76.5%)

Core i5 9600K

8 (23.5%)

Total votes: 34

ompetitors

1.
Core i9 9900K vs M1 Max

2.
Core i9 9900K vs Ryzen 7 5800X

3.
Core i9 9900K vs M1 Pro

4.
Core i9 9900K vs Apple M1

5.
Core i9 9900K vs Core i9 12900K

6.
Core i9 9900K vs Core i7 12700K

7.
Core i9 9900K vs Core i5 12600K

8.
Core i5 9600K vs Core i5 12600K

9.
Core i5 9600K vs Core i5 12400

Intel Core i9-9900K, i7-9700K, i5-9600K CPU Performance Leaks Out

Not one, not two but the performance numbers of all three of Intel’s upcoming 9th generation unlocked processors has leaked out. The performance numbers are compiled in Geekbench 4 which shows what kind of jump we should expect from the core count bump on the high-end processors, arriving next month.

Intel Core i9-9900K, Core i7-9700K, and Core i5-9600K Unlocked 9th Gen CPU Performance Leaks Out in Geekbench

All processors seem to have been tested on stock clock speeds which are very high out of the box. We are talking about up to 5.0 GHz boost on a single and up to 4.7 GHz boost on 8 cores. Here we can see that the enhanced 14nm++ process node is really helping Intel deliver the fastest clocked mainstream processors to date and even though there aren’t any architectural improvements to talk about, the core jump and clock speeds would really help boost performance in gaming, multi-tasking and rendering workloads.

Starting with the flagship part, the Intel Core i9-9900K scored 6248 points in single core and 33037 points in multi-core benchmarks. These are some of the highest numbers we have seen for an LGA 1151 socketed mainstream part and nothing even from the rivaling Ryzen club comes close to this. The chip was tested on an ASUS ROG Maximus X HERO motherboard with 16 GB of DDR4 memory which is pretty standard but what I am really interested to see now is where overclocks would take this score to since all three unlocked SKUs will be rocking a soldered IHS design and that would be a lot of help in keeping the chip cooler when overclocked and even when running under stock load.

2 of 9

The Intel Core i7-9700K scored 6297 points in the single core and 30152 points in the multi-core benchmark. While the single core score is similar to the Core i9-9900K since there’s a difference only of 100 MHz, the lower threads on the 9700K resulted in 3000 points lower than the flagship. The chip was tested on a Gigabyte Z370 AORUS Ultra Gaming motherboard. Comparing it to the Ryzen 7 2700X shows that the chip is much faster in single core workloads but the Ryzen 2700X has a total of 16 threads while the Core i7-9700K has only 8 threads so while the 9th Gen chip is in lead, the difference in performance is lower than the 8700K’s multi-core score.

2 of 9

The last part that was tested is the Intel Core i5-9600K which was also tested on a similar config as the Core i7-9700K. The chip scored 6027 points in single core and 23472 points in multi-core CPU benchmark. Here, we also see the single core performance just about the same as the other parts but multi-core performance is lower due to much lower threads. The Core i5-9600K is an i5-8600K on steroids based on the clock speeds. The 8600K itself scored around 5000 points in single core and 19000-20000 points in multi-core benchmark so we can see a good boost in performance for this part.

2 of 9

table id=877 /]

Intel Core i9-9900K, Intel’s First 8 Core Mainstream CPU With 4.7 GHz All 8 Core Boost Frequency, Faster Than Intel’s 8086K Anniversary Edition In All Possible Ways

First up, we will detail the flagship part, the 8 core, 16 thread, Intel Core i9-9900K. This will be the first mainstream desktop Core i9 part and also the first Intel chip to boast 8 cores and 16 threads. In terms of cache, the chip will feature 16 MB of L3 and will come with an Intel UHD 620 graphics chip.

The clock speeds are something to check out here, we are going to get a 3.6 GHz base clock out of the box and a 5.0 GHz boost clock in single and dual core operations. 4 core boost is rated at 4.8 GHz while 6/8 core boost is rated at 4.7 GHz. This is the highest frequency we have seen on an 8 core part across all cores. All of this is done under a 95W package so we can expect some hefty cooling solutions to go along with this chip.

Intel Core i7-9700K, Intel’s First 8 Core, Core i7 Mainstream Desktop CPU With Up To 4.6 GHz Clocks Across All Cores

Coming to the top Core i7 part, we get 8 cores and 8 threads. This the complete opposite of what we have been hearing as previous rumors identified the chip as a 6 core and 12 thread part. The chip will have 12 MB of L3 cache and as you might tell, it has lower threads than the Core i7-8700K but comes with higher core count. So maybe, we will get same or even better performance from the chip.

In terms of clock speeds, the chip has a base clock of 3.6 GHz and boosts up to 4.9 GHz in single, 4.8 GHz in dual-core, 4.7 GHz in four core and 4.6 GHz in 6/8 core operations. The TDP for this part is maintained at the same 95W.

Intel Core i5-9600K, 6 Cores, and 6 Threads With Higher Clocks Than 8th Generation i5 ‘K” SKU

The Intel Core i5-9600K is a 6 core and 6 thread part with 9 MB of L3 cache. This makes it very similar to the Core i5-8600K. The difference is that it features higher clock speeds of 3.7 GHz base, 4.6 GHz boost (1 core), 4.5 GHz (2 core), 4.4 GHz (4 core) and 4.3 GHz (6 core). All of this is done at the same TDP of 95W.

The 9th generation will be compatible with existing 300 series and the new Z390 motherboards. Following are some key features of the upcoming lineup:

• First performance Intel Core i9 desktop s-series processor
• Up to 8 cores
• Intel Z390 chipset compatible
• Solder Thermal Interface Material (STIM)
• Integrated USB 3. 1 gen 2 and Integrated Intel Wireless-AC
• Up to 16 threads, 5.0 GHz, 16 MB cache, and 40 platform PCIe lanes (16 CPU + 24 PCH)
• Compatible with all Intel 300 series chipsets
• Intel Optane memory and Intel Optane SSD support
• Thunderbolt 3 support

The specifications have been listed but there’s currently no word on the prices which are said to be expected around September, around the same time as the official announcement. Expect more on details regarding the prices and performance of these new 6 and 8 core mainstream parts from Intel in the coming months.

Which Intel 9th Generation CPUs are you most interested in?

• Core i9-9900K (8 Core / 16 Thread) ~488 USD

• Core i7-9700K (8 Core / 8 Thread) ~374 USD

• Core i5-9600K (6 Core / 6 Thread) ~262 USD

Poll Options are limited because JavaScript is disabled in your browser.

Core i9-9900K vs Core i5-9600K

Availability

Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor 8 Cores up to 5.0 GHz Turbo Unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W

Buy on Amazon

$570

In Stock

Updated 98 minutes ago

Availability

Intel Core i5-9600K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.6 GHz Turbo unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W

Buy on Amazon

$229.99

In Stock

Updated 98 minutes ago

Key Differences

In short — Core i9-9900K outperforms the cheaper Core i5-9600K on the selected game parameters. However, the worse performing Core i5-9600K is a better bang for your buck. The better performing Core i9-9900K and the cheaper Core i5-9600K have been released at the same time.

Advantages of Intel Core i9-9900K

Advantages of Intel Core i5-9600K

VALORANT

Resolution

1920×1080

Game Graphics

High

Core i9-9900K

Desktop • Oct 19th, 2018

FPS

492

100%

Value, $/FPS

$1. 16/FPS

-37%

Price, $

$570

40%

FPS Winner

Intel Core i9-9900K Desktop Processor 8 Cores up to 5.0 GHz Turbo Unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W

Buy for $570 on Amazon

In Stock

Updated 98 minutes ago

Core i5-9600K

Desktop • Oct 19th, 2018

FPS

466

94%

Value, $/FPS

$0.49/FPS

100%

Price, $

$229.99

100%

Value Winner

Intel Core i5-9600K Desktop Processor 6 Cores up to 4.6 GHz Turbo unlocked LGA1151 300 Series 95W

Buy for $229.99 on Amazon

In Stock

Updated 98 minutes ago

Resolution

1920×1080

Game Graphics

High

Core i9-9900K

Desktop • Oct 19th, 2018

Core i5-9600K

Desktop • Oct 19th, 2018

282

FPS

267

FPS

Grand Theft Auto V

1497

FPS

1421

FPS

Minecraft

492

FPS

466

FPS

VALORANT

1125

FPS

1066

FPS

League of Legends

693

FPS

654

FPS

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive

Geekbench 5 Benchmarks

Core i9-9900K

Desktop • Oct 19th, 2018

Single-Core

1309

100%

Multi-Core

8544

100%

Core i5-9600K

Desktop • Oct 19th, 2018

Single-Core

1235

94%

Multi-Core

5549

46%

Intel Core i9-9900K	vs	Intel Core i5-9600K
Oct 19th, 2018	Release Date	Oct 19th, 2018
Core i9	Collection	Core i5
Coffee Lake	Codename	Coffee Lake
Intel Socket 1151	Socket	Intel Socket 1151
Desktop	Segment	Desktop
8	Cores	6
16	Threads	6
3. 6 GHz	Base Clock Speed	3.7 GHz
5.0 GHz	Turbo Clock Speed	4.6 GHz
95 W	TDP	95 W
14 nm	Process Size	14 nm
36.0x	Multiplier	37.0x
UHD 630	Integrated Graphics	UHD 630
Yes	Overclockable	Yes

Builds Using Core i9-9900K or Core i5-9600K

VALORANT, 1080p, High

CORSAIR ONE i164 Compact Gaming PC

410 FPS

$5.06/FPS

GeForce RTX 2080 Ti

Core i9-9900K

16 GB, 2 TB HDD

Buy on Amazon

$2,074.97

In Stock

Updated 86 minutes ago

Omen Obelisk Gaming Desktop PC

410 FPS

$6.59/FPS

GeForce RTX 2080 Ti

Core i9-9900K

64 GB, 2 TB HDD

Buy on Amazon

$2,699.99

In Stock

Updated 85 minutes ago

Adamant Custom Liquid Cooled Gaming Desktop PC

492 FPS

$6. 61/FPS

GeForce RTX 3090

Core i9-9900K

32 GB, 5 TB HDD

Buy on Amazon

$3,249.99

In Stock

Updated 90 minutes ago

CyberpowerPC Gamer Xtreme VR Gaming PC

343 FPS

$7/FPS

GeForce RTX 2070 SUPER

Core i9-9900K

16 GB, N/A Storage

Buy on Amazon

$2,399.99

In Stock

Updated 89 minutes ago

CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme Gaming PC

281 FPS

$8.54/FPS

GeForce RTX 2060

Core i9-9900K

16 GB, 1 TB SSD

Buy on Amazon

$2,398.96

In Stock

Updated 91 minutes ago

Omen by HP Obelisk Gaming Desktop PC

367 FPS

$10.08/FPS

GeForce RTX 2080 SUPER

Core i9-9900K

32 GB, 1 TB SSD

Buy on Amazon

$3,699

In Stock

Updated 89 minutes ago

Omen by HP Obelisk Gaming Desktop PC

410 FPS

$10.73/FPS

GeForce RTX 2080 Ti

Core i9-9900K

16 GB, 1 TB SSD

Buy on Amazon

$4,399

In Stock

Updated 85 minutes ago

CyberpowerPC Gamer Supreme Liquid Cool Gaming PC

410 FPS

$11. 46/FPS

GeForce RTX 2080 Ti

Core i9-9900K

16 GB, 2 TB HDD

Buy on Amazon

$4,699.99

In Stock

Updated 89 minutes ago

CLX Set — Elite Gaming Desktop PC

326 FPS

$11.96/FPS

GeForce RTX 2070

Core i9-9900K

16 GB, 960 GB SSD + 3 TB HDD

Buy on Amazon

$3,899

In Stock

Updated 87 minutes ago

CYBERPOWERPC Gamer Xtreme Gaming PC

155 FPS

$12.89/FPS

GeForce GTX 1050 Ti

Core i5-9600K

8 GB, 500 GB SSD

Buy on Amazon

$1,998

In Stock

Updated 89 minutes ago

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Intel 9th Gen Core i9-9900K 8 Core Flagship CPU Specs Leaked

The latest specifications of Intel’s 9th Generation desktop processor family have leaked out by Coolaler. The source which has been legit with their previous leaks, mention the specifications of the top tier ‘K’ SKUs which include a Core i5, a Core i7 and also, the flagship Core i9 processor.

Intel’s 9th Generation Desktop Processor Specifications Leak Out — Core i9-9900K 8 Core, Core i7-9700K 8 Core, and Core i5-9600K 6 Core CPUs

According to the leak, Intel will have at least three ‘K’ series SKUs. These would include the flagship Core i9-9900K, Core i7-9700K, and the Core i5-9600K. All three processors are designed for the new Z390 motherboards but based on the recent leaks, we will also get compatibility with current-gen Z370 motherboards. Moving on to the SKU configurations, the leak lists down the processors with the following configs:

• Intel Core i9-9900K (est: 8 core / 16 thread)
• Intel Core i7-9700K (est: 8 core / 8 thread)
• Intel Core i5-9600K (est: 6 core / 6 thread)

Intel 9th Generation Core Family CPU Official Specifications:

Processor Name	Process	Cores / Threads	Base Clock	Boost Clock	Cache	TDP	Price
Core i9-9900KS	14nm++	8 / 16	3.6 GHz	5.0 GHz (8 Cores)	16 MB	127W	$513 US
Core i9-9900K	14nm++	8 / 16	3.6 GHz	5.0 GHz	16 MB	95W	$488 US
Core i9-9900KF	14nm++	8 / 16	3. 6 GHz	5.0 GHz	16 MB	95W	$488 US
Core i7-9700K	14nm++	8 / 8	3.6 GHz	4.9 GHz	12 MB	95W	$374 US
Core i7-9700KF	14nm++	8 / 8	3.6 GHz	4.9 GHz	12 MB	95W	$374 US
Core i5-9600K	14nm++	6 / 6	3.7 GHz	4.6 GHz	9 MB	95W	$262 US
Core i5-9600KF	14nm++	6 / 6	3.7 GHz	4.6 GHz	9 MB	95W	$262 US
Core i5-9600	14nm++	6 / 6	3.1 GHz	4.5 GHz	9 MB	65W	TBD
Core i5-9500	14nm++	6 / 6	3.0 GHz	4.3 GHz	9 MB	65W	TBD
Core i5-9400	14nm++	6 / 6	2.9 GHz	4.1 GHz	9 MB	65W	$182
Core i5-9400T	14nm++	6 / 6	1. 8 GHz	3.4 GHz	9 MB	35W	TBD
Core i3-9350KF	14nm++	4/4	4.0 GHz	4.6 GHz	8 MB	91W	TBD
Core i3-9100	14nm++	4 / 4	TBD	4.2 GHz	6 MB	65W	TBD
Core i3-9000	14nm++	4 / 4	3.7 GHz	N/A	6 MB	65W	TBD
Core i3-9000T	14nm++	4 / 4	3.2 GHz	N/A	6 MB	35W	TBD

Intel Core i9-9900K, Intel’s First 8 Core Mainstream CPU With Expected 4.7 GHz All Core Boost

First up, we will detail the flagship part, the 8 core, 16 thread, Intel Core i9-9900K. This will be the first mainstream desktop Core i9 part and also the first Intel chip to boast 8 cores and 16 threads. In terms of cache, the chip will feature 16 MB of L3 and will come with an Intel UHD 620 graphics chip.

The clock speeds are something to check out here, we are going to get 3.6 GHz base clock out of the box and a 5.0 GHz boost clocks in single and dual core operations. 4 core boost is rated at 4.8 GHz while 6/8 core boost is rated at 4.7 GHz. This is the highest frequency we have seen on an 8 core part across all cores. All of this is done under a 95W package so we can expect some hefty cooling solutions to go along with this chip.

Intel Core i7-9700K, Intel’s First 8 Core, Core i7 Mainstream Desktop CPU With Up To 4.6 GHz Clocks Across All Cores

Coming to the top Core i7 part, we get 8 cores and 8 threads. This is completely opposite of what we have been hearing as previous rumors identified the chip as a 6 core and 12 thread part. The chip will have 12 MB of L3 cache and as you might tell, it has lower threads than the Core i7-8700K but comes with higher core count. So maybe, we will get same or even better performance from the chip.

In terms of clock speeds, the chip has a base clock of 3. 6 GHz and boosts up to 4.9 GHz in single, 4.8 GHz in dual-core, 4.7 GHz in four core and 4.6 GHz in 6/8 core operations. The TDP for this part is maintained at the same 95W.

Intel Core i5-9600K, 6 Cores, and 6 Threads With Higher Clocks Than 8th Generation i5 ‘K» SKU

The Intel Core i5-9600K is a 6 core and 6 thread part with 9 MB of L3 cache. This makes it very similar to the Core i5-8600K. The difference is that it features higher clock speeds of 3.7 GHz base, 4.6 GHz boost (1 core), 4.5 GHz (2 core), 4.4 GHz (4 core) and 4.3 GHz (6 core). All of this is done at the same TDP of 95W.

A mockup of Intel Core i9, 9th Generation SKU branding.

The main thing to note here is that the part is listed with 100 MHz higher frequencies than what was reported in Intel’s own documents which were posted a while back. Now they weren’t final in any way so changes were expected. Also, having no 6 core and 12 thread part in the lineup is also slightly unusual but we can see Intel taking this approach as every ‘K’ SKU beneath the flagship part comes with a non-multi-threaded design. As an example, the Core i7-8700K was the only 6/12 part while the Core i5-8600K was 6/6 and Core i3-8350K was 4/4.

There’s no word on the pricing or launch date but we know that these chips are expected to be introduced in the coming months so we will keep you posted as more information arrives. Aside from that, motherboard makers have already started shipping new BIOS firmware to support the upcoming CPUs which you can check out here.

Intel Desktop Platform Chipset Comparison

Chipset Name	Raptor Lake-S (RPL-S) PCH / 700 Series (Z790)	Alder Lake-S (ADL-S) PCH / 600 Series (Z690)	Rocket Lake-S (RKL-S) PCH / 500 Series (Z590)	Comet Lake-S (CML-S) PCH / 400 Series (Z490)	Coffee Lake S (CNL-H) PCH / 300 Series (Z390/h470, B360, Q370, h410)	Coffee Lake S (KBL-R) PCH / Z370 Platform
Process Node	14nm	14nm	14nm	14nm	14nm	22nm
Processor	24,16C,12C,10C,6C,4C (TBD)	16C,12C,10C,6C,4C (Full corporate/consumer SKU stack at launch)	8C, 6C (Full corporate/consumer SKU stack at launch)	10C, 8C, 6C, 4C, 2C (Full corporate/consumer SKU stack at launch)	8C, 6C, 4C, 2C (Full corporate/consumer SKU stack at launch)	8C, 6C, 4C (6 Consumer SKUs at Launch)
Memory	Up To DDR5-5600 (Native) Up To DDR4-3200 (Native)?	Up To DDR5-4800 (Native) Up To DDR4-3200 (Native)	Up To DDR4-3200 (Native)	Up To DDR4-2933 (Native)	Up To DDR4-2666 (Native)	Up To DDR4-2666 (Native)
Media, Display & Audio	eDP / 4DDI (DP, HDMI) Display Capabilities	eDP / 4DDI (DP, HDMI) Display Capabilities	DP 1. 2 & HDMI 2.0, HBR3 HDCP 2.2 (HDMI 2.0a w/LSPCON) 12-bit AV1/HEVC & VP9 10-bit Enc/Dec, HDR, Rec.2020, DX12 Integrated Dual-Core Audio DSP With USB Audio offload SoundWire Digital Audio Interface	DP 1.2 & HDMI 1.4 HDCP 2.2 (HDMI 2.0a w/LSPCON) HEVC & VP9 10-bit Enc/Dec, HDR, Rec.2020, DX12 Integrated Dual-Core Audio DSP SoundWire Digital Audio Interface	DP 1.2 & HDMI 1.4 HDCP 2.2 (HDMI 2.0a w/LSPCON) HEVC & VP9 10-bit Enc/Dec, HDR, Rec.2020, DX12 Integrated Dual-Core Audio DSP SoundWire Digital Audio Interface	DP 1.2 & HDMI 1.4 HDCP 2.2 (HDMI 2.0a w/LSPCON) HEVC & VP9 10-bit Enc/Dec, HDR, Rec.2020, DX12 Integrated Dual-Core Audio DSP
I/O & Connectivity	Integrated USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20G) Integrated Intel Wireless-AC (Wi-Fi6E/ 7 BT CNVio) with Gig+ Integrated SDXC 4.0 Controller Thunderbolt 4.0	Integrated USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20G) Integrated Intel Wireless-AC (Wi-Fi6E/ 7 BT CNVio) with Gig+ Integrated SDXC 4. 0 Controller Thunderbolt 4.0	Integrated USB 3.2 Gen 2×2 (20G) Integrated Intel Wireless-AC (Wi-Fi6E/ BT CNVi) Integrated SDXC 3.0 Controller Thunderbolt 4.0 (Maple Ridge)	Integrated USB 3.2 Gen 2 Integrated Intel Wireless-AC (Wi-Fi / BT CNVi) Integrated SDXC 3.0 Controller Thunderbolt 3.0 (Titan Ridge) w/ DP 1.4	Integrated USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) Integrated Intel Wireless-AC (Wi-Fi / BT CNVi) Integrated SDXC 3.0 Controller Thunderbolt 3.0 (Titan Ridge) w/ DP 1.4	Integrated USB 3.1 Gen 1 (5 Gbps) Thunderbolt 3.0 (Alpine Ridge)
Storage	Next-Gen Intel Optane memory PCIe 5.0 (CPU Lanes), 6x SATA 3.0	Next-Gen Intel Optane memory PCIe 5.0, 6x SATA 3.0	Next-Gen Intel Optane memory PCIe 4.0, 6x SATA 3.0	Next-Gen Intel Optane memory PCIe 3.0, 6x SATA 3.0	Next Gen Intel Optane memory PCIe 3.0, 6x SATA 3.0	Next Gen Intel Optane memory PCIe 3. 0, 6x SATA 3.0
Max PCH PCIe Lanes	Up To 20 (Gen 4) Up To 8 (Gen 3)	Up To 12 (Gen 4) Up To 16 (Gen 3)	Up To 24 (Gen 3)	Up To 24 (Gen 3)	Up To 24 (Gen 3)	Up To 24 (Gen 3)
Max CPU PCIe Lanes	TBD	Up To 16 (Gen 5) Up To 4 (Gen 4)	Up To 20 (Gen 4)	Up To 16 (Gen 3)	Up To 16 (Gen 3)	Up To 16 (Gen 3)
Max USB Ports	Up To 5 (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2) Up To 10 (USB 3.2 Gen 2×1) Up To 10 (USB 3.2 Gen 1×1) Up To 14 (USB 2.0)	Up To 4 (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2) Up To 10 (USB 3.2 Gen 2×1) Up To 10 (USB 3.2 Gen 1×1) Up To 14 (USB 2.0)	Up To 3 (USB 3.2 Gen 2×2) Up To 10 (USB 3.2 Gen 2×1) Up To 10 (USB 3.2 Gen 1×1) Up To 14 (USB 2.0)	Up To 10 (USB 3.2) Up To 14 (USB 2.0)	Up To 10 (USB 3.1) Up To 14 (USB 2.0)	Up To 10 (USB 3.0) Up To 14 (USB 2.0)
Security	N/A	N/A	N/A	Intel SGX 1. 0	Intel SGX 1.0	Intel SGX 1.0
Power Management	C10 & S0ix Support for Modern Standby	C10 & S0ix Support for Modern Standby	C10 & S0ix Support for Modern Standby	C10 & S0ix Support for Modern Standby	C10 & S0ix Support for Modern Standby	C8 Support
Launch	2022	2021	2021	2019	2018	2017

Which Intel 9th Generation CPUs are you most interested in?

• Core i9-9900K (8 Core / 16 Thread) ~488 USD

• Core i7-9700K (8 Core / 8 Thread) ~374 USD

• Core i5-9600K (6 Core / 6 Thread) ~262 USD

Poll Options are limited because JavaScript is disabled in your browser.

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K — Apex Legends with RTX 2080 Benchmarks 1080p, 1440p, Ultrawide, 4K Comparison

RTX 2080 with

Intel Core i5-9600K @ 3.70GHz

Apex Legends

RTX 2080 with

Intel Core i9-9900K @ 3.60GHz

i5-9600K
i9-9900K

Multi-Thread Performance

13352 Pts

20500 Pts

Single-Thread Performance

2677 Pts

2908 Pts

Apex Legends

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K in Apex Legends using RTX 2080 — CPU Performance comparison at Ultra, High, Medium, and Low Quality Settings with 1080p, 1440p, Ultrawide, 4K resolutions

i5-9600K
i9-9900K

Ultra Quality

High Quality

Medium Quality

Low Quality

i5-9600K

• For some games, a cpu with a higher clock speed, or in a technical name IPC (Instructions per clock), has better results than other CPU’s with higher core count and lower core speed.

i9-9900K

• The i9-9900K has higher Level 3 Cache. This is useful when you have substantial multiprocessing workloads, many computationally intense simultaneous processes. More likely on a server, less on a personally used computer for interactive desktop workloads.
• The i9-9900K has more cores. The benefit of having more cores is that the system can handle more threads. Each core can handle a separate stream of data. This architecture greatly increases the performance of a system that is running concurrent applications.
• The i9-9900K has more threads. Larger programs are divided into threads (small sections) so that the processor can execute them simultaneously to get faster execution.
• The i9-9900K has a higher turbo clock boost. Turbo Boost is a CPU feature that will run CPU clock speed faster than its base clock, if certain conditions are present. It will enable older software that runs on fewer cores, to perform better on newer hardware. Since games are software too, it is also applicable to them.

Compare i5-9600K vs i9-9900K specifications

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K Architecture

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K Cache

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K Cores

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K Features

	i5-9600K	i9-9900K
	MMX SSE SSE2 SSE3 SSSE3 SSE4. 2 AVX AVX2 EIST Intel 64 XD bit VT-x VT-d AES-NI TSX TXT CLMUL FMA3 F16C BMI1 BMI2 Boost 2.0	MMX SSE SSE2 SSE3 SSSE3 SSE4.2 AVX AVX2 EIST Intel 64 XD bit VT-x VT-d HTT AES-NI TSX TXT CLMUL FMA3 F16C BMI1 BMI2 Boost 2.0

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K Notes

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K Performance

	i5-9600K	i9-9900K
Base Clock	100 MHz	100 MHz
Frequency	3.7 GHz	3.6 GHz
Multiplier	37. 0x	36.0x
Multiplier Unlocked	Yes	Yes
TDP	95 W	95 W
Turbo Clock	up to 4.6 GHz	up to 5 GHz
Voltage	variable	variable

i5-9600K vs i9-9900K Physical

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Intel Core i5-9600K vs Intel Core i9-9900K: What is the difference?

61 BALLLA

Intel Core i5-9600K

67 Ballla

Intel Core i9-9900k

Winter when comparing

VS

64 Facts compared to

9000. 9600K

INTEC Why is Intel Core i5-9600K better than Intel Core i9-9900K?

Why is Intel Core i9-9900K better than Intel Core i5-9600K?

• 29.73% higher CPU speed?
  8 x 3.6GHz vs 6 x 3.7GHz
• 10 more CPU threads?
  16 vs 6
• 0.5MB more L2 cache?
  2MB vs 1.5MB
• 1.74x higher PassMark score?
  18898 vs 10878
• 0.4GHz higher turbo clock speed?
  5GHz vs 4.6GHz
• 7MB more L3 cache?
  16MB vs 9MB
• 128KB more L1 cache?
  512KB vs 384KB
• 7.22% higher PassMark score (single)?
  2986 vs 2785

Which comparisons are the most popular?

Intel Core i5-9600k

VS

AMD Ryzen 3 3200G

Intel Core i9-9900k

Apple M1 Pro (10-Core)

Intel Core I5-9600K

VS 9000 9000 VS

004 AMD RYZEN 5 3600

Intel Core i9-9900K

VS

AMD Ryzen 9 3900x

Intel Core i5-9600K

VS

Intel Core I7-8700K

INTEL CORE INTEL CORE INTEL CORE INTEL CORE Intel Core i9-9900

Intel Core i5-9600K

VS

Intel Core i7-6700

Intel Core i9-9900K

VS

I5-12600K

9000 INTEC

Intel Core i7-9700k

Intel Core i9-9900k

VS

AMD Ryzen 7 5800x

Intel Core i5-9600K

VS

AMD Ryzen 5 5600x

VS 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000 9000

Intel Core i5-9600K

VS

AMD Ryzen 9 3900x

Intel Core i9-9900k

AMD Ryzen 5 3600

Intel

Intel Core i9-9900k

VS

Intel Core i7-9700K

Intel Core i5-9600K

VS

AMD Ryzen 5 5600g

Intel Core I9-9900K

VS

AMD Ryzen 9 5900x 9000) 9600K

VS

Intel Core i5-10400

Intel Core i9-9900K

VS

Intel Core i9-9900KF

Costs

Users

Reviews

0004 Intel Core i5-9600k

1 reviews of users

Intel Core i5-9600k

10. 0 /10

1 reviews of users

Intel Core I9-9900K

4 $

Intel Core I9-000

8.8 /10

4 Reviews of users

Functions

Price and quality ratio

10.0 /10

1 VOTES

8.5 /10

003

Games

10.0 /10

1 Votes

/10

4 Votes 9000

Reliability

10.0 /10

1 Votes

/10

4 Votes

004

8.8 /10

4 votes

performance cores (processors). It is calculated by adding the clock speeds of each core or, in the case of multi-core processors, each group of cores.

2nd processor thread

More threads result in better performance and better multitasking.

3.speed turbo clock

4.6GHz

When the processor is running below its limits, it can jump to a higher clock speed to increase performance.

4. Unlocked

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

Some processors come with an unlocked multiplier and are easier to overclock, allowing for better performance in games and other applications.

5.L2 cache

More L2 scratchpad memory results in faster results in CPU and system performance tuning.

6.L3 cache

More L3 scratchpad memory results in faster results in CPU and system performance tuning.

7.L1 cache

More L1 cache results in faster results in CPU and system performance tuning.

8.core L2

0.25MB/core

0.25MB/core

More data can be stored in the L2 scratchpad for access by each processor core.

9.core L3

1.5MB/core

2MB/core

More data can be stored in L3 scratchpad for access by each processor core.

Memory

1.RAM speed

2666MHz

2666MHz

Can support faster memory which speeds up system performance.

2.max memory bandwidth

41.6GB/s

41.6GB/s

This is the maximum rate at which data can be read from or stored in memory.

3. DDR version

DDR (Dynamic Dynamic Random Access Memory Double Data Rate) is the most common type of RAM. New versions of DDR memory support higher maximum speeds and are more energy efficient.

4.Memory channels

More memory channels increase the speed of data transfer between memory and processor.

5.maximum memory capacity

Maximum memory capacity (RAM).

6.bus baud rate

The bus is responsible for transferring data between different components of a computer or device.

7. Supports memory troubleshooting code

✖Intel Core i5-9600K

✖Intel Core i9-9900K

Memory error recovery code can detect and correct data corruption. It is used when necessary to avoid distortion, such as in scientific computing or when starting a server.

8.eMMC version

Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Intel Core i5-9600K)

Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Intel Core i9-9900K)

The newer version of eMMC — built-in flash memory card — speeds up the memory interface, has a positive effect on device performance, for example, when transferring files from a computer to internal memory via USB.

9.bus frequency

Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Intel Core i5-9600K)

Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Intel Core i9-9900K)

The bus is responsible for transferring data between various components of a computer or device

Geotagging

1. PassMark result

This test measures processor performance using multi-threading.

2. PassMark result (single)

This test measures processor performance using a thread of execution.

3.Geekbench 5 result (multi-core)

Geekbench 5 is a cross-platform benchmark that measures the performance of a multi-core processor. (Source: Primate Labs,2022)

4.Cinebench R20 result (multi-core)

Cinebench R20 is a test that measures the performance of a multi-core processor by rendering a 3D scene.

5.Result Cinebench R20 (single core)

Cinebench R20 is a test to evaluate the performance of a single core processor when rendering a 3D scene.

6.Geekbench 5 result (single core)

Geekbench 5 is a cross-platform test that measures the single core performance of a processor. (Source: Primate Labs, 2022)

7.Blender test result (bmw27)

303.7seconds

164.2seconds

The Blender test (bmw27) measures CPU performance by rendering a 3D scene. More powerful processors can render a scene in a shorter time.

8.Blender result (classroom)

980.5seconds

544seconds

The Blender (classroom) benchmark measures CPU performance by rendering a 3D scene. More powerful processors can render a scene in a shorter time.

9.performance per watt

This means that the processor is more efficient, giving more performance per watt of power used.

Features

1.uses multi-threading

✖Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

Multi-threading technology (such as Intel’s Hyperthreading or AMD’s Simultaneous Multithreading) provides better performance by dividing each physical processor core into logical cores, also known as threads. Thus, each core can run two instruction streams at the same time.

2. Has AES

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

AES is used to speed up encryption and decryption.

3. Has AVX

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

AVX is used to help speed up calculations in multimedia, scientific and financial applications, and to improve the performance of the Linux RAID program.

4.Version SSE

SSE is used to speed up multimedia tasks such as editing images or adjusting audio volume. Each new version contains new instructions and improvements.

5. Has F16C

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

F16C is used to speed up tasks such as image contrast adjustment or volume control.

6.bits transmitted at the same time

Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Intel Core i5-9600K)

Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Intel Core i9-9900K)

NEON provides faster media processing such as MP3 listening.

7. Has MMX

✔Intel Core i5-9600K

✔Intel Core i9-9900K

MMX is used to speed up tasks such as adjusting image contrast or adjusting volume.

8. Has TrustZone

✖Intel Core i5-9600K

✖Intel Core i9-9900K

The technology is integrated into the processor to ensure device security when using features such as mobile payments and streaming video using digital rights management technology ( DRM).

9.interface width

Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Intel Core i5-9600K)

Unknown. Help us offer a price. (Intel Core i9-9900K)

The processor can decode more instructions per clock (IPC), which means the processor performs better

Price comparison

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Which CPUs are better?

Testing Intel Core i5-9600K, i7-9700K, i9-9900K, i9-9900KF and i9-9900KS processors using the new 2020 methodology

Regular readers have long noticed that we try to make processor testing methods «long-lived» — at least for a year or two. The fact is that when using a large number of real applications that solve specific problems (and not simple synthetics), the process of studying each processor takes a fairly long time. But its absolute speed indicators are not always interesting in themselves — it is much more useful to be able to compare them with a large number of similar solutions, including, for example, a processor from the same company that cost the same, but three to five years ago. And these results still need to be collected, which in itself is not done quickly. However, updating the software is still required, and its “needs” also change, which leads to a change in the results. In particular, the difference between «old» and «new» processors often increases — after all, it is usually not possible to perform optimization for new ones in advance. Therefore, for buyers, newer test results are always more relevant. And the problem of the limited results base is solved simply (although not quickly): you need to test as many interesting models of different times as possible. And yet, first of all, the most «fresh» processors are of interest, which are just widely represented in retail chains. Now both AMD and Intel have updated their assortment, we have already met almost all the characteristic representatives of the last wave, and it is time for quiet time , the best way to update the methodology and get new results.

Test participants

	Intel Core i5-9600K	Intel Core i7-9700K	Intel Core i9-9900K	Intel Core i9-9900KF	Intel Core i9-9900KS
Kernel name	Coffee Lake Refresh	Coffee Lake Refresh	Coffee Lake Refresh	Coffee Lake Refresh	Coffee Lake Refresh
Production technology	14 nm	14 nm	14 nm	14 nm	14 nm
Core frequency, GHz	3.7/4.6	3.6/4.9	3.6/5.0	3. 6/5.0	4.0/5.0
Number of cores/threads	6/6	8/8	8/16	8/16	8/16
L1 cache (total), I/D, KB	192/192	256/256	256/256	256/256	256/256
L2 cache, KB	6×256	8×256	8×256	8×256	8×256
L3 cache, MiB	9	12	16	16	16
RAM	2×DDR4-2666	2×DDR4-2666	2×DDR4-2666	2×DDR4-2666	2×DDR4-2666
TDP, W	95	95	95	95	127
Number of PCIe 3.0 lanes	16	16	16	16	16
Integrated GPU	UHD Graphics 630	UHD Graphics 630	UHD Graphics 630	no	UHD Graphics 630

For the very first article, we decided to take five Intel processors — the top (in their lines) ninth generation models for the updated version of LGA1151. With the fastest Core i5 (i.e. 9600K), everything is simple in general — it is he who is taken as a “scale unit” in the new line of tests, i.e. 100 points in each group is just 9600K. And the 9700K is a similar senior processor of the Core i7 line: recall that in the eighth generation of Core, such processors were also six-core, but, unlike the Core i5, they supported Hyper-Threading — in the ninth they were made eight-core, but the additional threads were “cut off” . Core i9 became the seniors in all respects — there are eight cores and Hyper-Threading. But they themselves became somehow … a lot.

Recall that since 2011, it has been common for LGA115x to have only one or two top models with an unlocked multiplier (which is just indicated by the “K” index in the number) in each generation. One each was in the third, sixth and seventh — 3770K, 6700K and 7700K. Two — in the second, fourth and eighth: 2600K / 2700K, 4770K / 4790K and 8700K/8086K, respectively (the latter was produced in a small edition as part of the 40th anniversary of the i8086). In the fifth, there was only one desktop Core i7-5775C at all, in principle, so some order in the notation was not required. In the ninth, the Core i9-9900K first appeared, but later the 9900KF and 9900KS were added to it.

The first one is simple: all models with index “F” come with a locked video core. The last time such Cores were encountered only in the second generation, although there were “unsuccessful” crystals later (the GPU occupies a considerable area, so defects in this area are possible) — but they were disposed of as part of the Xeon or even “went under the knife” that the company could afford. In 2017, another interesting direction was found: Kaby Lake-X processors for LGA2066, where the integrated GPU could not be used anyway. In principle, for two years now, some users have been waiting for the release of Coffee Lake-X, but still waiting unsuccessfully — since the main problem of Intel is not even the return of competition, but such a side effect of it as a shortage of processors: the number of cores had to be increased, so the number of processors obtained from the same platters has decreased (AMD did this easily due to initially much smaller volumes — and in some mass segments the number of cores is much more limited: for example, six to eight cores in laptops — until recently, almost unequivocally Intel ) — the crystals have become larger. Under such conditions, the company was not up to the dispersion of forces in areas — especially since it took both an increase in the number of cores in Xeon and a reduction in prices for models for LGA2066. In general, one of the results was the decision to return to the practice of releasing Core with a disabled GPU — which, recall, has not happened since the days of LGA1155 (and there were very few models without graphics at all — but many with partially working GPUs). In principle, no one was «very offended» — for a long time there were voices that it was not necessary, they say, GPUs are everywhere. Especially considering that discrete video cards are still used in some desktop systems, and the simultaneous operation of two chips in this segment is still exotic (unlike mobile PCs). In general, it was possible to increase the shipment volumes of processors — albeit formally and slightly different processors, so you have to indicate on the boxes that a discrete video card is required for their operation. But in such conditions, there should not be a fundamental difference between «K» and «KF». In addition … that, in fact, theoretically, these are crystals of different quality — and not necessarily the defects are localized in only one part. Therefore, the behavior of models with different indices may turn out to be slightly different. What is interesting to check in practice.

But the Core i9-9900KS is an aria from another opera. The platform update took place last year — before the Ryzen «3000 series» went on sale. As we have already seen, Intel has nothing to fully «answer» these processors. It is also impossible to radically improve Coffee Lake Refresh: in fact, this is a development in 2015, where they managed to “shove” twice as many cores as it was originally, which “pulls” the engineering feat onto , but leaves almost no freedom for maneuver. And the new microarchitecture is planned only for the new year that has already come and not at its very beginning. But something needed to be done — so we went along the path already tested last year: similarly to the Core i7-8086K, which is the «elite» analogue of the Core i7-8700K, the Core i9 appeared-9900KS. This is where the analogy ends, because in the i7-8086K they increased all the frequencies — both the base one (which has no meaning for a long time — they never work on exactly such processors for a long time), and the maximum one, and in the i9-9900KS they “pulled up” only the base one. True, they acted cunningly with the maximum — in the i9-9900K , the sacred 5 GHz can only be achieved with a load on 1-2 cores, and in the i9-9900KS — for everything. But “may” does not mean they will. If only because the power consumption is limited and the difference between these models is not so great. The «default» TDP, however, has increased — but this is precisely due to an increase in the base frequency: it has no other meaning for a long time, since they have never worked on such processors for a long time. Yes, and they can exceed the base limit — but for a short time (so the effect is not always noticeable) and is also limited. True, temporary upper limits are connected with TDP, so an additional margin of 30-40 W for a more “aggressive” boost mode appeared, but nothing more. And the inclusion of various auto-overclocking functions (which motherboard manufacturers have long and often sinned “by default”), as a rule, disables all restrictions for i9-9900K, and for i9-9900KS, so in this case the processors will behave approximately the same as — with an accuracy of 5%. And what will happen to both of them when trying to get not even 5 GHz on all cores, but close to that, has long been known to all overclockers: a sharp increase in power consumption to a level of 200 W and above. So letting go of limits “without looking” is fraught — it’s better to set them up and work with frequencies more flexibly, which the manual mode allows. But this is a separate topic, most users do not touch at all.