Intel 9th Gen

Each generation of Intel Core processors offers incremental improvements over the previous generation. This is also the case with Intel’s 9th Generation of Core CPUs, but it is these small improvements that move PC gaming forward through the years. What’s on offer with the 9th generation of Intel Core processors? Read on to find out.

14nm process

The smaller individual transistors are, the more can be packed into a silicon package, and the less power the transistors use. That’s why the move to a 14nm process is so important, something which the 9th generation of Intel Core processors brings.

With 14nm manufacturing Intel can pack more cores into the same silicon footprint while simultaneous utilising high clock frequencies without consuming more power. CPU power consumption is important because it affects the temperature at which a CPU runs which in turn has implications for overclocking and cooling.

Intel 9th Gen 14nm

9th generation specs

Topping out in the shape of Core i9 chips, the 9th generation of Intel processors bring clock speeds of up to 5.0 Ghz and a total of 16MB cache. You get up to 40 PCIE lanes too, while the maximum core count for desktop processors is 8 (in the i9 and i7 lines) and 6 cores in the Core i5 line.

This is the first mainstream Intel processor offering eight cores, though AMD has offered Ryzen chips with eight cores for some time.

In terms of clock speed, the Core i9-9900K has a base clock speed of 3.6 Ghz and a Turbo Boost clock speed of 5.0Ghz. Buy the Core i7-9700K and you get base speeds of 3.6 Ghz and a Turbo Boost speed of 4.9 Ghz. Core i5-9600K chips run at 3.7 Ghz base and 4.6 Ghz boost.

Intel 9th Gen Spec

Is it worth upgrading?

CPU speed is not the biggest factor when it comes to getting the best out of your custom gaming PC, but for the ultimate in high frame rates a CPU can still make a big difference. You really need to look at your own, individual system and decide whether the CPU is a weak point.

If you’re buying a new system consider getting one of the latest generation of Intel processors. The 9th generation will give you even more performance for your money, with the i9 chips promising record-breaking performance.

Own an aging CPU? Now might be a good time to move up, especially if you know your gaming habits involve lots of multi-threading: you will really tap much more out of your system with an 8-core i7 or i9 chip.

Not sure? Well you know who to talk to – the helpful staff here at Gear-up.me will be more than happy to help you pick the 9th generation Intel chip to match your system.