The Intel Core i9 9900K 8-Core 3.60GHz Desktop Processor is especially designed for those seeking powerful performance and excellent overclocking capabilities. The processor promises exceptional processing power and advanced features for both gaming and professional applications. This review aims to provide an in-depth analysis of the processor's key features, technical specifications, performance, and overall value proposition.
Technical Overview
The Core i9 9900K is based on Intel's 9th generation Coffee Lake architecture and features 8 cores and 16 threads, making it suitable for multi-threaded workloads. With a base clock speed of 3.60GHz, it can dynamically increase its performance through Intel's Turbo Boost technology, reaching a maximum turbo frequency of 5.00GHz. The processor supports hyper-threading, enabling it to handle up to 16 concurrent threads, and includes 16MB of Intel Smart Cache.
Key Features
- Built-in Intel® UHD Graphics 630
- Supports DDR4/DDR5 and PCIe 4.0/5.0
- Compatible with Intel 300-series chipsets
- 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores with up to 32 threads
- Supports 16 PCIe 5.0 Lanes and 4 PCIe 4.0 Lanes
- Built with Hyper-Threading technology for efficient performance
- Up to 5.7GHz Intel® Turbo Boost Max Technology with 3.0 Frequency
Specifications
| Processor Type | Desktop |
| Series | Core i9 |
| Core Model Type/ProcNo. | i9-9900K |
| Processor Code Name | Coffee Lake |
| Core Stepping | P0 |
| Manufacturing Technology | 14 nm |
| CPU ID String | 906EC |
| # of Cores | 8 |
| # of Threads | 16 |
| Clock Speed | 3.60 GHz |
| L3 Cache Size | 16 MB |
| Front Side Bus / QuickPath Interconnect | 8.00 GT/s DMI3 |
| Thermal Power | 95 Watts |
| Max Memory Size | 128 GB |
| Memory Types | DDR4-2666 |
| Memory Channels | 2 |
| Maximum Memory Bandwidth | 41.6 GB/s |
| ECC Memory Supported | No |
| CPU Socket Type | LGA 1151 |
| Max CPU Configuration | 1 |
| TJUNCTION | 100 °C |
| Package Size | 37.5mm x 37.5mm |
| Processor Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| Graphics Base Frequency | 350 MHz |
| Graphics Max Dynamic Frequency | 1.20 GHz |
| Graphics Video Max Memory | 64 GB |
| 4K Support | Yes, at 60Hz |
| Max Resolution (HDMI 1.4) | 4096 x 2304 @ 24Hz |
| Max Resolution (DP) | 4096 x 2304 @ 60Hz |
| Max Resolution (eDP – Integrated Flat Panel) | 4096 x 2304 @ 60Hz |
| DirectX Support | 12 |
| OpenGL Support | 4.5 |
| Intel Quick Sync Video | Yes |
| Intel InTru 3D Technology | Yes |
| Intel Clear Video HD Technology | Yes |
| Intel Clear Video Technology | Yes |
| # of Displays Supported | 3 |
| Device ID | 0x3E98 |
| Embedded Options Available | No |
| Scalability | 1S |
| PCI Express | 3.0 |
| PCI Express Configurations | 1 x16 1×8+2×4 2 x8 |
| Max # of PCI Express Lanes | 16 |
| Advanced Technologies | Enhanced Intel SpeedStep Technology Idle States Instruction Set 64-bit Intel 64 Intel Hyper-Threading Technology Intel Optane Memory Supported Intel Stable Image Platform Program (SIPP) Intel Transactional Synchronization Extensions Intel Turbo Boost Technology 2.0 Intel Virtualization Technology (VT-x) Intel Virtualization Technology for Directed I/O (VT-d) Intel vPro Platform Eligibility Intel VT-x with Extended Page Tables (EPT) Thermal Monitoring Technologies |
| Instruction Set Extensions | Intel SSE4.1, Intel SSE4.2, Intel AVX2 |
| Security & Reliability | Execute Disable Bit Intel AES New Instructions Intel Boot Guard Intel Memory Protection Extensions (Intel MPX) Intel OS Guard Intel Software Guard Extensions (Intel SGX) Intel Trusted Execution Technology Secure Key |
| Product Condition | OEM |
Performance Benchmarks
When it comes to performance, the Intel Core i9 9900K Processor excels in both single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks. It offers excellent gaming performance, especially when paired with a high-end graphics card. With its 3.60GHz speeds and powerful cores, the i9 9900K CPU performs exceptionally well in single-threaded tasks.
The Core i9 9900K also incorporates Intel's advanced technologies, such as Intel Optane Memory support, which enhances system responsiveness and accelerates storage performance. It excels in applications that rely heavily on single-core performance, such as image editing and specific productivity software. In single-threaded tasks, its high clock speeds and robust cores make it a top performer for applications like image editing and productivity software.
Pros & Cons
While the Intel Core i9 offers exceptional benefits, at the same time, it has some downsides to it. Here is a brief overview of the pros and cons of core i9 990
| Pros | Cons |
| Delivers exceptional performance, especially in gaming and multi-threaded applications | increase power consumption and heat generation due to 95 watts (TDP) |
| With Hyper-Threading technology, the i9 9900K can handle 16 threads simultaneously. | The i9 9900K belongs to Intel's 9th generation lineup, which is not the latest generation. |
| The processor's powerful cores provide impressive single-threaded performance. | The Intel Core i9 comes at a premium price, making it expensive for budget-conscious users. |
| Excellent overclocking capabilities to push its performance further with proper cooling. | Require many expansion cards due to 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes. |
Architecture
The i9 9900 K's architecture combines powerful processing, efficient performance, and support for advanced technologies, making it a high-performance choice for demanding tasks. The Intel Core i9 9900K is based on the Coffee Lake architecture, utilizing a 14nm manufacturing process. It features 8 cores and 16 threads, providing efficient multitasking capabilities. With a base clock speed of 3.60GHz and Intel Turbo Boost technology, it can reach up to 5.0GHz. The processor supports dual-channel DDR4 memory and includes 16MB of Intel Smart Cache for faster data access.
Overclocking:
One of the notable advantages of the Core i9 9900K is its overclocking potential. With an unlocked multiplier, enthusiasts can push the processor beyond its stock speeds to achieve even higher performance levels. However, it's worth noting that overclocking requires adequate cooling solutions and may void the warranty, so caution and proper hardware considerations are necessary.
What motherboards are compatible with the i9 9900K?
The Core i9 9900k desktop processor is compatible with motherboards with an LGA 1151 socket and supports Intel 300-series chipsets. Here are some latest motherboards options that are compatible with the i9-9900K:
Compatible Motherboards for i9 9900KForm FactorChipset
ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero ATXZ390
Gigabyte Z390 Aorus UltraATXZ390
MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro CarbonATXZ390
ASRock Z390 Phantom Gaming 9ATXZ390
EVGA Z390 DarkATXZ390
What RAM is compatible with the i9 9900K?
The 9th gen intel core i9-9900K is compatible with DDR4 memory modules. It supports dual-channel memory configurations and has an official memory speed support of up to 2666MHz. RAM modules with speeds ranging from 3000MHz to 3600MHz are commonly paired with the i9 9900K for improved performance. It is crucial to check the motherboard's specifications and compatibility list to ensure that the chosen RAM is compatible with both the motherboard and the processor for optimal performance and stability.
Where to Buy i9 9900K Processor
Are you looking for an opportunity to upgrade your system’s performance? Don’t hesitate to shop this Intel Core i9 9900K 8-Core 3.60GHz Desktop Processor at the best price from Servers4Less.com. We stock a wide range of high-end OEM Processors from Intel and AMD. To order in bulk, you can contact us through live chat or call us at 1-(877)-389-4645. Our dedicated customer support team is ready to assist you throughout the purchasing process.
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