Intel lifted the curtain on Intel Core 14th gen desktop processors based on the tried-and-true Raptor Lake architecture, and will be available for pre-order starting October 17, 2023.
This Raptor Lake Refresh, also known as the Core i-14000 series, features six new models that promise to redefine performance standards, particularly in the gaming arena. The lineup includes three K-models and their KF counterparts without integrated graphics, priced similarly to their predecessors.
Intel claims that the new series offers a 23% increase in gaming performance compared to its leading competitor, AMD. However, these claims have yet to be substantiated through independent benchmarks. The new processors are designed to offer more cores and higher boost frequencies, aligning with the company’s focus on desktop performance.
Core i9:
The Core i9-14900K and its variant, the 14900KF without an integrated graphics unit, are the flagship models of this new series. These processors feature a total of 24 cores, including 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores. Only the P-cores support Hyper-Threading, resulting in a total of 32 threads. The maximum clock speed has been increased from 5.8 GHz to 6 GHz. The processors also support DDR5-5600 RAM and retain the same L2 and L3 cache sizes as their predecessors.
Core i7:
The Core i7-14700K and its variant, the 14700KF, represent a significant upgrade over the previous generation. These processors now feature 20 cores, divided into 8 P-cores and 12 E-cores, with a maximum of 28 threads. The maximum boost clock has been increased by 200 MHz to 5.6 GHz. Additionally, the L2 cache has been increased from 24 MB to 28 MB, and the L3 cache from 30 MB to 33 MB.
Core i5:
The Core i5-14600K and its variant, the 14600KF, show no significant changes compared to their predecessors. These processors continue to feature 14 cores, divided into 6 P-cores and 8 E-cores, with a maximum clock speed of 5.3 GHz.
Compatibility and Connectivity:
All new models are compatible with existing Z790 and Z690 motherboards, eliminating the need for additional hardware purchases. They also support upcoming Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 technologies, although these features will be enabled through external chips. The processors come with integrated modules for Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 and support Thunderbolt 4 and Thunderbolt 5.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | Core i9-14900K/KF | Core i7-14700K/KF | Core i5-14600K/KF |
|---|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Raptor Lake | Raptor Lake | Raptor Lake |
| Cores & Threads | 24 (8P+16E), 32 | 20 (8P+12E), 28 | 14 (6P+8E), 20 |
| Clock Speed | Up to 6 GHz | Up to 5.6 GHz | Up to 5.3 GHz |
| Cache | 32 MB L2, 36 MB L3 | 28 MB L2, 33 MB L3 | 20 MB L2, 24 MB L3 |
| RAM Support | DDR4-3200, DDR5-5600 | DDR4-3200, DDR5-5600 | DDR4-3200, DDR5-5600 |
