Intel to Launch 14th Gen Desktop Processors with Impressive Specs and Pricing
Intel is set to release its 14th Gen desktop processors this week, with the promise of delivering impressive performance. The flagship Core i9-14900K boasts an out-of-the-box boost frequency of 6GHz, making it the fastest desktop processor available in volume, according to Intel. This follows the special-edition 13900KS that achieved the 6GHz barrier last year but didn’t ship in large quantities.
One of the highlights of the 14th Gen processor lineup is the Core i7-14700K, which sees a significant increase in efficiency cores. Intel is increasing the core count of the Core i7 processor from eight efficiency and eight performance cores to 12 efficiency and eight performance cores. This brings the total core count to 20, close to the 24 found on the Core i9-14900K. The added efficiency cores are expected to enhance performance for creator tasks and games that utilize multithreading.
When it comes to benchmarks, Intel’s new Core i7-14700K demonstrates favorable results against AMD’s Ryzen 9 7950X and even Intel’s previous Core i7 chips for creator tasks. However, it remains to be seen how the Core i7-14700K compares to AMD’s impressive 7800X3D chip in gaming benchmarks.
On the flagship side, Intel’s Core i9-14900K offers a 6GHz Thermal Velocity Boost frequency, previously seen in the special-edition Core i9-13900KS. The P-core max turbo frequencies have increased by 200Hz up to 5.6GHz, while the E-core max turbo side experiences a 100MHz bump. The base frequencies for both the P- and E-cores have also seen a 200MHz increase.
In addition to the Core i9 and Core i7 processors, Intel is refreshing its Core i5 lineup. The i5-14600K features a total of 20 cores, with six P-cores and eight E-cores. It has a base clock of 3.5GHz on the P-core side and can boost up to 5.3GHz.
All the 14th Gen processors are compatible with Intel 600- and 700-series motherboards, utilizing the LGA 1700 socket. They also support Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 through a discrete option that motherboard manufacturers can include in refreshed Z790 boards. Additionally, Intel is offering support for DDR5 5600 and DDR4 3200 memory speeds with its 14th Gen chips.
As for pricing, Intel is maintaining the same retail pricing as the 13th Gen for its 14th Gen Core i9, i7, and i5 processors. The Core i9-14900K will be priced at $589, the Core i7-1700K at $409, and the Core i5-14600K at $319. These processors will be available from system builders and retailers starting from October 17th.
Overall, Intel’s 14th Gen desktop processors bring notable improvements in performance at competitive prices, making them an attractive option for both creators and gamers alike.