Intel has introduced the latest iteration of its Core-series desktop processors, which belong to the 14th generation and are founded on the updated Raptor Lake architecture.
This lineup comprises the Core i9-14900K/KF, the Core i7-14700K/KF, and the Core i5-14600K/KF.
The new chips can be thought of as upgraded versions of their previous models, with some fresh software and connectivity perks. Only the i7 model has seen some adjustments to its core design.
But, let’s start at the top. The 14900K (and the 14900KF version without integrated graphics) have seen minor speed bumps, just enough for Intel to boast they’ve created the first CPU to hit 6.0GHz for the second time. They previously claimed this feat with the 13900KS, but that chip was in limited supply. In contrast, the 14900K is expected to be the first widely available chip to hit 6.0GHz. Other than that, there aren’t many big changes compared to the 13900K.
| 14900K | 13900K | 14700K | 13700K | 14600K | 13600K | |
| Total cores/threads | 24/32 | 24/32 | 20/28 | 16/24 | 14/20 | 14/20 |
| Performance cores | 8 | 8 | 8 | 8 | 6 | 6 |
| Efficient cores | 16 | 16 | 12 | 8 | 8 | 8 |
| Max Turbo | 6.0 GHz | 5.8 GHz | 5.6 GHz | 5.4 GHz | 5.3 GHz | 5.3 GHz |
| Thermal Velocity Boost | 6.0 GHz | 5.8 GHz | – | – | – | – |
| Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 | 5.8 GHz | 5.7 GHz | 5.6 GHz | 5.4 GHz | – | – |
| Performance-core max | 5.6 GHz | 5.4 GHz | 5.5 GHz | 5.3 GHz | 5.3 GHz | 5.1 GHz |
| Efficient-core max | 4.4 GHz | 4.3 GHz | 4.3 GHz | 4.2 GHz | 4.0 GHz | 3.9 GHz |
| Performance-core base | 3.2 GHz | 3.0 GHz | 3.4 GHz | 3.4 GHz | 3.5 GHz | 3.5 GHz |
| Efficient-core base | 2.4 GHz | 2.2 GHz | 2.5 GHz | 2.5 GHz | 2.6 GHz | 2.6 GHz |
| Total cache | 36 MB | 36 MB | 33 MB | 30 MB | 24 MB | 24 MB |
| L2 cache | 32 MB | 32 MB | 28 MB | 24 MB | 20 MB | 20 MB |
| Base power | 125 W | 125 W | 125 W | 125 W | 125 W | 125 W |
| Turbo power | 253 W | 253 W | 253 W | 253 W | 181 W | 181 W |
The 14700K spices things up a bit by adding more E-cores compared to its predecessor, going from 8+8 to 8+12. It also cranks up the clock speeds and cache size.
On the other hand, the 14600K is more of a subtle upgrade, with only slight speed boosts to justify its existence.
If you’re looking at models with a built-in GPU, they still sport the UHD Graphics 770, just like the previous generation.
A cool new feature for this generation is Intel Application Optimization, aiming to improve how applications use the hybrid architecture of these chips, potentially boosting performance by up to 16% in select titles. However, it won’t work wonders for all games.
Intel has also introduced Intel XTU software with AI-assisted overclocking for these chips. They’ve also upgraded the memory controller, now claiming support for XMP kits running at over 8000 MHz.
Connectivity-wise, these new 14th gen chips offer integrated support for Wi-Fi 6/6E and Bluetooth 5.3, along with separate support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. They’re also ready for Thunderbolt 5, which doubles the Thunderbolt speed to 40Gbps.
Good news for upgraders: the 14th gen chips are compatible with existing 600 and 700 series chipset motherboards sporting the LGA 1700 socket. If your motherboard supported Intel’s 12th and 13th gen chips, it’ll work with the 14th gen too.
And perhaps the best part: these new Intel chips will maintain the same prices as the previous generation, available starting October 17.
