What Is Intel Core i9-9900k?
Gamers in search of a monster rig should always have a solid processor to start with. The Intel Core i9-9900k is simply the best mainstream desktop processor money can buy currently. This CPU was launched in October 2018 apart of the Coffee Lake refresh. Now let’s take a look at what makes this processor the best in its class.
Intel Core i9-9900k Specs and Price
The i9-9900k has some of the best specs we’ve ever seen in a mainstream desktop processor. However, with specs like this come a large price tag. The 9900k currently retails around $529.99. It’s specifications are as follows.
Cores/Threads - 8/16
Base Clock - 3.6 GHz
Turbo Clock - 5.0 GHz
Architecture - Coffee Lake
Platform - LGA 1151
TDP - 95W
Here you can find a comparison list of all i9 processors.
Intel Core i9-9900k Performance
The 9900k is proven to bethe best performing CPU on the market right now. While it may burn a hole in consumers wallets, those who are looking for a high performance all-around CPU to last for 5-10 years should look no further. The i9-9900k has Intel’s highest single-core and multi-core performance in any Intel CPU yet. Each of its 16 threads push further than any other chip that came before it. When paired with a GTX 1080 Ti, let’s see how this does in both gaming and applications.
Total War: Warhammer II - 83 FPS Average
Shadow of the Tomb Raider - 116 FPS Average
Civilization VI - 112.5 FPS Average
Geekbench 4 Multi-Core Test Score - 31,079
Adobe Premiere Pro 4K Video Export - 3.6 FPS
You can find a full performance review here.
Intel Core i9-9900k Overclocking Capability
The i9-9900k is quite an easy chip to overclock. In most cases, this CPU can easily reach a stable overclock of at least 5GHz. However, a high quality cooler is required to get a stable OC. It’s also important to make sure the motherboard has good VRM.
You can find a step by step overclocking guide here.
Intel Core i9-9900k Alternatives
Intel Core i7-9700K
This CPU is a great alternative for those who are looking for similar performance to the 9900k but want to save a few bucks. In most benchmarks, the 9700k is usually just a couple of frames behind the 9900k. At the price of $419.99, it’s obvious why most gamers opt to put this in their build compared to the i9.
AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
While AMD is due for a new CPU line very soon, the Ryzen 7 2700X is still a great CPU for the money. It’s currently selling for $309.99, and for $200 less you actually aren’t losing as much performance as you’d think. The 9900k still performs better in nearly every situation, but for nearly half the price you can get something close to it
Intel Core i9-9900k Final Verdict
The i9-9900k is the advancement in CPU technology that we’ve been waiting for. For any gamer/content creator, this is a dream processor. However, with its steep price point and contenders with similar performance, it’s a tough call to say if this CPU is worth the money or not. Either way, it’s Intel’s best mainstream processor yet and those who don’t care about the price tag will be pleased with their purchase.
Pros
Best single-core and multi-core performance available in any CPU currently
Performs great in content creation apps as well as gaming/streaming
Low energy consumption for its power
Can be overclocked past 5 GHz
Cons
Expensive
Need great cooler for overclocking
i7-9700k has similar performance and is $100 cheaper
Final Score: 9/10
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