The Intel Fall Desktop Launch Event has Chipzilla reveal the 9th generation Core desktop processors-- including the Core i9-990K, described as nothing less than "the world's best gaming processor."
“Our goal is to deliver leadership performance across all computing segments and product lines,” the company says. “Today’s announcements underscore our ability to do exactly that, including, hands-down, the world’s best processor for gaming. Whether a gamer, a creator or an expert using the most advanced workstation applications possible, Intel and our partners are focused on delivering balanced platforms with real-world leadership performance and robust capabilities that exceed their needs.”
But what makes the Core i9-9900K the best? As the highest-end processor, it features 8C/16T with a base frequency of 3.6GHz and 5GHz boost, together with 16MB L3 cache (2MB per core) and dual-channel DDR4-2666 support. It is rated at 95W TDP, and achieves 5GHz boost by using one or two cores, with the option of an all-core 4.7GHz turbo. Intel says overclockers have even managed to push the processor to 6.9GHz on LN2.
The 9th generation line has 2 more processors-- the Core i7-9700K and i5-6900K. The i7-9700K offers 8 cores (with no hyperthreading) with 3.6GHz base frequency, 4.9GHz single-core boost and 4.6GHz mult-core boost, while the i5-9600K offers 6 cores, 3.7GHz base clock and 4.3/4.6GHz all/single core boost. All the chips are compatible with Intel 300 series motherboards, and include high-speed USB 3.1 gen 2 and gigabit wifi support via the Intel Z390 chipset.
Preorders for the 9th gen Intel Core processors and Intel Z390 chipset motherboards are open now.
