Intel has released its fastest processor yet, the Core i9-14900KS, priced at $699. The company states that availability begins on March 14, 2024, so it should soon be in stock at popular retailers. The new Core i9-14900KS reaches speeds of up to 6.20 GHz (Thermal Velocity Boost), with the max turbo E-core frequency also increased by 200MHz.
Intel has launched the Core i9-14900KS processor as part of its 14th-Gen lineup. Like previous KS flagship processors, this one is also promoted as the “world’s fastest desktop processor,” accompanied by a corresponding price increase.
In comparison to the previously released i9-14900K, this one boasts a higher base TDP of 150W instead of 125W. The turbo power remains unchanged at 253W. However, like other K series Intel processors, this one is unlocked, allowing users to push the CPU even further. Given the robust performance of the Core i9-14900KS, it’s advisable to pair it with powerful cooling to effectively manage its high performance capabilities.
The new Intel Core i9-14900KS processor boasts a maximum clock speed of 6.20 GHz for the Performance (P) Cores, enabled by “Thermal Velocity Boost.” The all-core max turbo frequency remains consistent with the non-KS Core i9 at 5.60 GHz. In terms of the efficiency (E) cores, they also receive a minor 100MHz increase, now reaching up to 4.50 GHz turbo frequency. The total cache remains unchanged at 36MB of Intel Smart Cache. Below are the full specifications.
Intel Core i9-14900KS Specs
Processor Name | Intel Core i9-14900K |
Motherboard Support | LGA 1700 Socket (including Z790/Z690/B760/etc.) |
Generation & Architecture | 14th Gen; Raptor Lake Refresh |
Thermal Velocity Boost | 6.20 GHz |
Total Core Count | 24 Cores |
Total Thread Count | 32 Threads |
Performance Cores (P Cores) | 8 |
Efficiency Cores (E Cores) | 16 |
TDP / Power Consumption | 125W Base / 253W Boost |
Base Frequency (P Cores) | 3.20 GHz |
Max Turbo Frequency (P Cores) | 5.60 GHz |
Base Frequency (E Cores) | 2.40 GHz |
Max Turbo Frequency (E Cores) | 4.50 GHz |
Intel Smart Cache | 36 MB |
Integrated GPU (iGPU) | Intel UHD Graphics 770 |
Base & Boost TDP | 125W (Base), 253W (Boost) |
Max Memory Speed (non-XMP) | 5600 MHz (DDR5), 3200 MHz (DDR5) |
Memory Capacity | 192 GB |
Intel Core i9-14900KS: Price & Availability
Intel’s Core i9-14900KS is set to be available starting March 14, 2024, with a price tag of $699, as per the company’s announcement.
Compared to the non-KS i9-14900K, priced at $544.99 currently, the new i9-14900KS comes with a higher cost of about $150. Retailers like Amazon, Newegg, Microcenter, and others should offer the processor for purchase soon.
While the price increase might not seem justified, despite the higher TVB frequency of 6.20 GHz, the Intel Core i9-14900KS is a special edition CPU believed to be binned higher than other CPUs.
For LGA 1700 motherboard owners aiming for maximum performance (with potential overclocking for top speeds), the new Core i9 KS from Intel remains an option to consider.
Could This Mark the Conclusion of the Intel LGA 1700 Socket?
This processor is anticipated to be the final release in the Intel 14th Gen series. Moving forward, the Core Ultra branding, seen on the latest laptops and even handheld devices, is expected to be utilized for upcoming processors. Additionally, recent teasers of the upcoming architecture suggest significant improvements in performance and efficiency. It appears that this processor will also be the last to be compatible with the LGA 1700 socket, which is slated for an upgrade with the next generation of processors.
Earlier, Intel confirmed the arrival of Meteor Lake CPUs for desktops in 2024. With this in mind, a new Core Ultra 9 desktop processor, featuring a fresh architecture, could potentially be released later this year as the successor to the recently launched Core i9-14900KS 14th Gen processor.
What are your thoughts on the i9-14900KS? If this is indeed the final Core i9 processor, would you consider purchasing it? Share your thoughts in the comments below!