Intel has launched the Core i9-14900KS processor, the latest addition to its 14th-Gen lineup. Similar to its predecessors, this flagship KS processor claims the title of the “world’s fastest desktop processor,” accompanied by a noteworthy price hike.
Compared to its predecessor, the i9-14900K, this model boasts a higher base TDP of 150W, up from 125W. The turbo power remains unchanged at 253W. Being part of the K series, this processor is unlocked, allowing users to push its performance further. However, adequate cooling is essential to manage the heat generated by this powerhouse processor.
The new Intel Core i9-14900KS processor boasts a max clock speed of 6.20 GHz for its Performance (P) Cores, enabled by “Thermal Velocity Boost.” The all-core max turbo frequency matches that of the non-KS Core i9 at 5.60 GHz. Efficiency (E) cores also see a slight bump of 100MHz, now reaching up to 4.50 GHz turbo frequency. The total cache remains at 36MB of Intel Smart Cache. Detailed specifications are provided below.
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 from March 14, 2024, with a price of $699.
Compared to the non-KS i9-14900K priced at $544.99, this new i9-14900KS costs about $150 more. It will be offered by retailers such as Amazon, Newegg, and Microcenter.
Despite the $150 premium, the Intel Core i9-14900KS boasts a higher TVB frequency of 6.20 GHz and is considered a specially binned CPU edition.
For LGA 1700 motherboard owners seeking maximum performance, the new Core i9 KS from Intel is a viable option, especially for overclocking to achieve top speeds.
Is This the End of Intel LGA 1700 Socket?
The Core i9 KS is anticipated as the final release in Intel’s 14th Gen series. Future processors are likely to adopt the Core Ultra branding, promising enhanced performance and efficiency. This processor is also expected to mark the end of compatibility with the LGA 1700 socket, which will be upgraded for the next generation of processors.
Intel confirmed earlier that Meteor Lake CPUs for desktops should come this year in 2024. A new Core Ultra 9 for desktops with a fresh architecture could be released later this year as the successor of the Core i9-14900KS 14th Gen processor.
What are your thoughts on the i9-14900KS? If this is the last Core i9 processor, will you buy it? Share in the comments below!
Pritam Chopra is a seasoned IT professional and a passionate blogger hailing from the dynamic realm of technology. With an insatiable curiosity for all things tech-related, Pritam has dedicated himself to exploring and unraveling the intricacies of the digital world.