Intel's latest processor, the Core i9-14900KS, is set to become the fastest desktop CPU produced by the company. According to details that have emerged from benchmark database OCCT, this powerhouse processor is expected to reach an impressive clock speed of 6.2GHz right out of the box. This not only surpasses its predecessor, the Core i9-14900K, but also makes it the most powerful CPU for desktop PCs that Intel has ever created.
The Core i9-14900KS offers a noticeable improvement over the Core i9-14900K, with an additional 200MHz boost to its peak frequency. Although this increase is typically seen across only one or two cores at a time, it can still enhance lightly threaded performance and provide a small uplift in gaming experiences. Intel has a tradition of offering KS models of their flagship CPUs, which involves carefully selecting chips that can achieve higher frequencies. These specialized models are then sold at higher prices and are often only available in limited quantities after the initial launch of a particular generation of processors.
Fortunately, for those who have an LGA1700 motherboard, the Core i9-14900KS can be seamlessly dropped in. However, users with older 600-series chipset motherboards may need to update their BIOS. It's important to note that the Core i9-14900KS doesn't introduce any physical enhancements or upgrades compared to the Core i9-14900K. Both processors share the same specifications, featuring 24 cores and 32 threads.
Aside from the 200MHz increase in peak boost frequency, it is expected that the frequency at which all the P and E-cores on the Core i9-14900KS operate will also see an enhancement. For example, while the Core i9-13900K was capable of pushing all its P-cores to 5.6GHz, the 13900KS was limited to around 5.5GHz. However, the data obtained from the OCCT benchmark indicates that all P-cores on the Core i9-14900KS can achieve a remarkable 5.9GHz. Once again, this represents a 200MHz improvement compared to what the 14900K could typically achieve across all its P-cores simultaneously.
As a result of these advancements, both single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads will experience a performance boost straight out of the box. However, it's important to note that the increased frequency comes at the cost of higher power consumption. The Core i9-14900KS shares the same base TDP of 150W as the 13900KS, marking a 25W increase over the standard 14900K. Consequently, the actual power consumption under load is projected to be significantly higher.
With these substantial performance upgrades, the Core i9-14900KS is projected to close the gap between it and AMD's Ryzen 7 5800X, a CPU widely regarded as the best overall gaming processor, priced around $400. Currently, the Core i9-14900K is available for $550. However, it is anticipated that the Core i9-14900KS will be priced at least $700 upon release, aligning with the launch prices of previous KS models.
One noteworthy advantage of the Core i9-14900KS is its superior performance beyond gaming, compared to the Ryzen 7 5800X. Additionally, this powerhouse CPU offers more consistent gaming performance than the Ryzen 9 5950X. These attributes make KS CPUs highly sought-after by those seeking maximum performance without the need for tinkering or tweaking, often prioritizing performance over value.
As exciting as these details may be, we must wait for an official announcement from Intel, along with comprehensive performance benchmarks, to gain a complete understanding of the Core i9-14900KS's potential. Nevertheless, the prospect of a processor capable of reaching an impressive 6.2GHz out of the box is undoubtedly enticing for PC enthusiasts and gamers alike.
