Although the focus of Intel’s latest event was the new ninth-generation desktop chips, the company also took time out to unveil a new lineup of Core X-series chips, which, this time around, are targeted more towards content creators and enthusiasts rather than mainstream gamers.
The new line-up includes 5 new Core i9 processors and a single Core i7 processor.
The chips support more high-end features than their desktop counterparts, including four channels of DDR4-2666 memory, Optane support, up to 24.75 MB L3 cache, up to 68 PCI-E 3.0 lanes, etc. and are built on a “14nm++” procedure.
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Each has a 165W TDP and support the existing LGA 2066 socket, meaning better support.
i9-9960X (16 cores/32 threads)The highlight in the package is the new 3.0 GHz Core X-series i9-9980XE, which has 18 cores and 36 threads. The remaining chips include:
Prices, meanwhile, start at $1979 for the 18-core i9-9980XE, with i9-9960X, i9-9940X, i9-9920X, i9-9900X, i9-9820X, and i7-9800X costing $1684, $1387, $1189, $989, $898 and $588, respectively. The new processors will be made available come November.
Finally, a word on the new Z390 motherboards, which are a small improvement on the existing Z370-chipset supporting boards. Both motherboards still support 8th gen and 9th gen Intel chips, though the older ones still need a BIOS upgrade.
The main addition is all related to connectivity, including native support for as many as 6 USB 3.1 Gen-2 ports. There’s also integrated 802.11ac Wi-Fi on the board as well as SDXC support.
The motherboards should be available alongside the new processors by next month.