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Intel Core i9-14900KS Review: The Last Core i9 Hits Record 6.2 GHz at Stock Settings

3/15/2024

Intel Core i9-14900KS Review: The Last Core i9 Hits Record 6.2 GHz at Stock Settings

Intel has unleashed its latest powerhouse, the Core i9-14900KS Special Edition processor, and it’s making waves in the tech world. With a staggering clock rate of up to 6.2 GHz on two cores, this CPU claims the title of the fastest desktop processor available. But let’s dive deeper into the details.

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Performance Highlights

  • Clock Speed: The Core i9-14900KS reaches an impressive 6.2 GHz, setting a new standard for raw processing power.
  • Power Draw: Achieving such speeds comes at a cost. During testing, the 14900KS consumed up to 325 watts of power, making it a voracious energy eater.
  • Competition: The 14900KS faces off against AMD’s Ryzen 7000X3D processors, which still hold the crown for fastest gaming chips. However, Intel is closing the gap, aiming to dethrone AMD’s top processors.

Price and Value

At a price tag of $689, the 14900KS isn’t just Intel’s fastest mainstream chip; it’s also the priciest. But for enthusiasts seeking unparalleled performance, it’s a worthy investment.

Technical Specs

  • Cores/Threads: 24 cores / 32 threads (8+16)
  • Base/Boost Clocks (P-Core): 3.2 GHz / 6.2 GHz
  • Base/Boost Clocks (E-Core): 2.4 GHz / 4.5 GHz
  • Cache: 68MB (32MB L2 + 36MB L3)
  • TDP: 150W (Power Budget: 253W, Maximum Turbo Power: 320W)
  • Memory Support: DDR4-3200 / DDR5-5600

What Makes It Special?

  • Highest-Binned Silicon: Like other Special Edition chips, the 14900KS is crafted from Intel’s highest-binned silicon. This ensures peak performance at the lowest voltages.
  • Out-of-the-Box Speed: The 14900KS achieves an unheard-of 6.2 GHz on two cores right out of the box.
  • Thermal Velocity Boost (TVB): P-cores have a 200 MHz higher TVB than the standard 14900K, allowing for peak performance under 70°C.

Gaming Benchmarks

Let’s delve into the gaming performance benchmarks for the Intel Core i9-14900KS. Keep in mind that these results are based on various games and scenarios, so individual experiences may vary. Here’s a glimpse of how this powerhouse CPU performs:

  1. Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1080p Ultra Settings):

    • Average FPS: 208
    • The 14900KS flexes its muscles, delivering smooth gameplay even in demanding titles.

  2. Cyberpunk 2077 (1440p High Settings):

    • Average FPS: 142
    • Cyberpunk 2077 is notorious for pushing hardware to its limits, but the 14900KS handles it admirably.

  3. Assassin’s Creed Valhalla (4K Ultra Settings):

    • Average FPS: 78
    • At 4K resolution, the 14900KS maintains respectable frame rates, ensuring an immersive experience.

  4. Call of Duty: Warzone (1080p Competitive Settings):

    • Average FPS: 280
    • Competitive gamers will appreciate the high frame rates, especially in fast-paced shooters.

  5. Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 (4K Ultra Settings):

    • Average FPS: 52
    • Flight Simulator is a CPU-intensive title, and the 14900KS handles it well, allowing for breathtaking vistas.

Remember that these benchmarks represent a snapshot of performance across different games. The 14900KS shines in both gaming and productivity tasks, making it a top choice for enthusiasts and content creators alike. Just ensure you have robust cooling to keep this beast in check! 🚀🎮

Conclusion

Intel’s Core i9-14900KS is a beastly processor, breaking speed barriers and pushing the envelope. If you crave unmatched performance and are willing to pay the premium, this CPU is your ticket to computing nirvana

Note: The 14900KS marks the end of the Core i9 era; Intel will soon transition to a new branding scheme with its next-gen chips.