Tag Archives: Coffee Lake

The Intel Core Processor Number Guide – What They Mean!

The Intel Core processor number system changes with every generation, including the new 10th Gen Ice Lake and 10th Gen Comet Lake processors!

In this guide, we will share with you exactly what those letters and numbers mean!

10 Generations, 10 Number Systems!

Every Intel Core processor generation varies in how they are numbered. We will go through each generation from the latest 10th Gen Core all the way to the first-generation Core processors.

 

10th Gen Intel Core Processor Number Systems

Even though they are both part of the same 10th Gen Intel Core processor family, the Ice Lake and Comet Lake processors have different processor number systems.

10th Gen Intel Ice Lake Processors

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i7 : enthusiast class, with many processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors

Gen Indicator

This is now a 2-digit number 10 for the 10th Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

Instead of three digits, it now uses just two digits, but the concept is the same – the higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general.

For example, the Core i7-1068 is faster than Core i7-1065.

Level of Graphics

Replacing the Product Line Suffix, this gives us a rough indication of the processor graphics’ performance level.

  • G7 : Intel Iris Plus Graphics with 64 Execution Units
  • G4 : Intel Iris Plus Graphics with 48 Execution Units
  • G1 : Intel UHD Graphics with 32 Execution Units

Intel started using this graphics indicator in the 10th Gen Intel Core processor number system, because this will be a major model differentiator.

For example, they announced three Intel Core i5-1035 models, differentiated only by their processor graphics :

  • Intel Core i5-1035G7 : Intel Iris Pro Graphics (64 EUs)
  • Intel Core i5-1035G4 : Intel Iris Pro Graphics (48 EUs)
  • Intel Core i5-1035G1 : Intel UHD Graphics (32 EUs)

Recommended : 10th Gen Intel Ice Lake Mobile CPU Features + Specifications!

10th Gen Intel Comet Lake Processors

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • Core i7 : enthusiast class
  • Core i5 : mainstream processors
  • Core i3 : entry-level processors

Gen Indicator

This is now a 2-digit number 10 for the 10th Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

Instead of two digits that Ice Lake uses, Comet Lake uses three digits, but the concept is the same – the higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general.

For example, the Core i7-10710 is faster than Core i7-10510.

Product Line Suffix

This tells us more about the processor features, for a particular model :

  • U : Ultra-low power (mobile only)
  • Y : Extremely-low power (mobile only)

Recommended : 10th Gen Intel Comet Lake : 1 Step Forward, 1 Step Back!

 

9th Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i9 : prosumer class, with the most processing cores
  • i7 : enthusiast class, with many processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors

Gen Indicator

The first number – 9 – quickly tells us that this is a 9th Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i9-9900 is faster than Core i9-9880
  • Core i7-9850 is faster than Core i7-9750

Product Line Suffix

This tells us more about the processor features, for a particular model :

  • K : Unlocked processor multiplier
  • F : Does not come with processor graphics, requires discrete graphics
  • T : Power-optimised
  • S : Special Edition
  • H : High performance graphics (mobile only)

Recommended : Intel Core i9-9900K Preview – World’s Best Gaming CPU?

 

8th Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i9 : prosumer class, with the most processing cores
  • i7 : enthusiast class, with many processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors

Gen Indicator

The first number – 8 – quickly tells us that this is an 8th Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i7-8750 is faster than Core i7-8700
  • Core i5-8500 is faster than Core i5-8400

Product Line Suffix

This tells us more about the processor features, for a particular model :

  • K : Unlocked processor multiplier (desktop only)
  • G : Includes discrete graphics on package (mobile only)
  • U : Ultra-low power (mobile only)

Next Page > 5th to 7th Gen Intel Core Processors

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


7th Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i7 : enthusiast class, with the most processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors

Gen Indicator

The first number – 7 – quickly tells us that this is a 7th Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i7-7700 is faster than Core i7-7600
  • Core i5-7Y57 is faster than Core i5-7Y54

Product Line Suffix

This tells us more about the processor features, for a particular model :

  • K : Unlocked processor multiplier
  • H : High performance graphics
  • Q : Quad-core processor
  • U : Ultra-low power
  • Y : Extremely low power

 

6th Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i7 : enthusiast class, with the most processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors

Gen Indicator

The first number – 6 – quickly tells us that this is a 6th Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i7-6700 is faster than Core i7-6600
  • Core i5-6600 is faster than Core i5-6500

Product Line Suffix

This tells us more about the processor features, for a particular model :

  • K : Unlocked processor multiplier (desktop only)
  • T : Power-optimised (desktop only)
  • H : High performance graphics (mobile only)
  • HK : High performance graphics, unlocked multiplier (mobile only)
  • HQ : High performance graphics, quad-core processor (mobile only)
  • U : Ultra-low power (mobile only)

 

5th Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i7 : enthusiast class, with the most processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors
  • M : ultra-low power mobile processors

Gen Indicator

The first number – 5 – quickly tells us that this is a 5th Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i7-5700 is faster than Core i7-5600
  • Core i5-5300 is faster than Core i5-5200

Product Line Suffix

This tells us more about the processor features, for a particular model :

  • C : Unlocked LGA1150 processor with high-performance graphics (desktop only)
  • R : BGA1364 processor with high-performance graphics (desktop only)
  • H : High performance graphics (mobile only)
  • HQ : High performance graphics, quad-core processor (mobile only)
  • U : Ultra-low power (mobile only)
  • Y : Extremely low power (mobile only)

Next Page > 1st to 4th Gen Intel Core Processors

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


4th Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i7 : enthusiast class, with the most processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors
  • M : ultra-low power mobile processors

Gen Indicator

The first number – 4 – quickly tells us that this is a 4th Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i7-4900 is faster than Core i7-4800
  • Core i5-4400 is faster than Core i5-4300

Product Line Suffix

This tells us more about the processor features, for a particular model :

  • K : Unlocked processor multiplier (desktop only)
  • R : BGA1364 processor with high-performance graphics (desktop only)
  • S : Performance-optimised model (desktop only)
  • T : Power-optimised (desktop only)
  • M : Mobile processor
  • MQ : Quad-core mobile processor
  • MX : Extreme Edition mobile processor
  • U : Ultra-low power (mobile only)
  • Y : Extremely low power (mobile only)

 

3rd Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i7 : enthusiast class, with the most processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors
  • M : ultra-low power mobile processors

Gen Indicator

The first number – 3 – quickly tells us that this is a 3rd Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i7-3770 is faster than Core i7-3720
  • Core i5-3470 is faster than Core i5-3450

Letter Suffix

This primarily tells us whether it is an Extreme Edition processor or not :

  • X : Extreme Edition processor

Product Line Suffix

This tells us more about the processor features, for a particular model :

  • K : Unlocked processor multiplier (desktop only)
  • S : Performance-optimised model (desktop only)
  • T : Power-optimised (desktop only)
  • M : Mobile processor
  • QM : Quad-core mobile processor
  • U : Ultra-low power (mobile only)
  • Y : Extremely low power (mobile only)

 

2nd Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i7 : enthusiast class, with the most processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors

Gen Indicator

The first number – 2 – quickly tells us that this is a 2nd Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i7-2860 is faster than Core i7-2820
  • Core i5-2700 is faster than Core i5-2600

 

1st Gen Intel Core Processor Number System

Brand Modifier

This is what most people think of as the performance category.

  • i7 : enthusiast class, with the most processing cores
  • i5 : mainstream processors
  • i3 : entry-level processors

Gen Indicator

The lack of a Gen Indicator of 1 tells us that this is a 1st Generation Intel Core processor.

SKU Numeric Digits

This is what we consumers use as a rough indicator of the processor’s overall performance.

The higher the number, the better the processor’s performance in general. For example :

  • Core i7-990 is faster than Core i7-980
  • Core i5-660 is faster than Core i5-650

 

Recommended Reading

[adrotate group=”2″]

Go Back To > First PageComputer Hardware | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon Motherboard Review!

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon is one of the first Intel Z390 motherboards to hit the market in support of the 9th Generation Intel Core i9-9900K processor.

Let’s unbox and take a close look at the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon motherboard. We will investigate its key features and find out if this is the Intel Z390 motherboard to pair with your 9th Generation Intel Core processor!

MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon Price + Availability

Our review sample is of the “standard” MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon motherboard with an official price of US$ 199 / ~£159 / RM 834.

MSI also offers an AC variant that adds WiFi-AC connectivity, called the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon AC. It has an official price of US$ 229 / ~£183 / RM 960..

Here are some direct purchase links of the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (prices accurate as of 14 December 2018) :

[adrotate group=”2″]

And here are some direct purchase links of the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon AC (prices accurate as of 14 December 2018) :

 

Unboxing The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon

Let’s take a quick look around the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) motherboard’s box before we unbox it, and find out what it contains!

Inside the box, you should find the following items :

  • One MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon motherboard
  • One MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon User Guide
  • One MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon Quick Installation Guide
  • One Intel Z390 chipset driver and utility DVD
  • One set of MSI case badge, pamphlet and registration card
  • One set of twelve SATA cable labels
  • Two M.2 NVMe SSD screws
  • One NVIDIA SLI HB bridge
  • One set of Mystic Light, RAINBOW and CORSAIR extension cables for LED lighting
  • Two SATA cables

Next Page > MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon Up Close + Full Specifications

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon Up Close

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) is a full-sized ATX motherboard, built around the new Intel Z390 chipset.

This is one of MSI’s premium model for the mainstream enthusiast / gamers market. Hence, it boasts premium features like Mystic Light RGB lighting, PCI-E Steel Armor reinforcement, and Audio Boost 4 capabilities.

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon Specifications

SpecificationsMSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon
Form FactorATX
- 9.6-inch x 12-inch
- 24.3 cm x 30.4 cm
ChipsetIntel Z390
SocketLGA 1151
Supported Processors8th Gen / 9th Gen Intel Core or Pentium Gold or Celeron processors
Memory Slots4 x DDR4 DIMM Slots
- Dual Channel
- Up to 64 GB
Memory SupportOfficial : DDR4-2133 / DDR4-2400 / DDR4-2666
OC : DDR4-2800 to DDR4-4400
PCI Express Slots3 x PCIe 3.0 x16
3 x PCIe 3.0 X1
Multi-GPU Support2-Way NVIDIA SLI
2-Way AMD CrossFire
M.2 Sockets2 x PCIe 3.0 x 4
SATA Ports6 x SATA 6 Gbps
RAID SupportRAID 0 / 1 / 5 / 10
LAN SupportIntel i219-V Gigabit LAN
Rear I/O Ports1 x USB 3.1 Gen2 Type C
3 x USB 3.1 Gen1 Type A
2 x USB 2.0
1 x DisplayPort 1.2
1 x HDMI 1.4
1 x PS/2 combo port
1 x Gigabit LAN port
1 x Optical S/PDIF out
5 x Audio ports
I/O Port Headers1 x USB 3.1 Gen2 Type C
4 x USB 3.1 Gen1 Type A
4 x USB 2.0
1 x Serial Port
1 x TPM header
Audio ProcessorRealtek ALC1220P
- Supports 7.1 channel HD Audio
I/O ControllerNuvoton NCT6797D
Hardware MonitorsCPU / system temperature detection
CPU / system fan speed detection
CPU / system fan speed control
Fan Headers1 x 4-pin CPU fan header
1 x 4-pin water pump header
5 x 4-pin system fan headers
Debug LED4 x EZ Debug LED lights
Onboard Power / Reset ButtonNo / No
WarrantyThree Years

Next Page > CPU Power, DDR4 + PCIe Slots, M.2 Sockets

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

CPU Power & Overclockability

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) has what appears to be 11+2 phases, which increases overclockability, while reducing electromagnetic interference with minimal power loss.

It has a fully-digital PWM architecture with load-line calibration. Although high quality (and expensive) analog PWM exists, digital PWM allows for more accurate control of the power frequency and modulation.

The MOSFETs and inductors are kept cool by aluminium alloy heatsinks, which help to increase reliability and longevity of the VRM.

To keep extreme gamers and overclockers happy, there are a total of SEVEN fan headers peppered throughout the motherboard. One of these is a dedicated water pump header that supports up to 2 amps, giving you full control of the water pump speed.

If there are any enthusiast-grade features that we regret were not included in this motherboard, it would be the Power and Reset buttons.

 

DDR4 Memory Slots

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) has four DDR4 DIMM slots. The Intel Z390 chipset only supports DDR4 memory up to 2666 MHz, but the Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon allows for overclocked memory clock speeds of up to 3600 MHz, with all four slots populated.

If you can live with just two slots, you can further push their clock speeds up to 4400 MHz! This is made possible by its fully-isolated memory circuitry and improved layout, which reduces interference for a cleaner signal.

The four memory slots are also covered with Steel Armor. In this case, it is not meant to add strength to the slots, but to protect them against electromagnetic interference.

 

PCI Express Slots

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) motherboard has six PCI Express slots – three full-sized PCI Express 3.0 x16 slots, and three smaller PCI Express 3.0 x1 slots.

The first two PCI Express x16 slots are sheet metal reinforced – what MSI calls Steel Armor. They increase the rigidity of the PCI Express slots, allowing them to support heavy graphics cards. The third PCI Express x16 slot lacks this Steel Armor reinforcement.

The top-most PCI Express 3.0 x16 slot operates at full x16 speed with a single graphics card.

If you have two graphics cards, you will need to install them in the first and second PCIe x16 slots; and they will both run at x8 speed. The third PCIe x16 slot only runs at x4 speed.

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Dual PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 Sockets

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon  motherboard has two PCIe 3.0 x4 M.2 sockets. They support M.2 solid state drives, with lengths of 42 mm, 60 mm, 80 mm or 110 mm. The third PCI Express x16 slot (which runs at x4 speed) can be used to add a third SSD. You can run them in RAID 0, 1, 5 or 10.

Only the second M.2 socket has a heatsink, and it’s a large one. If you intend to install only one M.2 SSD, then you should obviously install it in the lower M.2 socket, so the drive is cooled.

The upper M.2 socket is “naked”, although you can always install a DIMM cooler to help keep both the memory modules and the SSD installed in this socket cool.

Next Page > SATA Ports, Audio Boost 4 with Nahimic 3, I/O Ports, Mystic Light

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

Limited SATA Ports

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) has six standard SATA 6Gb/s ports. There are no SATA Express ports. But what’s really problematic is the stacked side-facing design. They may prove to be troublesome to access in tight cases. If only MSI included a few vertical ports.

Do note that the first M.2 socket (M2_1) uses the SATA_2 port, if you opt to use it in the SATA mode. In addition, the second M.2 socket (M2_2) uses both the SATA_5 and SATA_6 ports in PCIe mode.

What this basically means is you have limited support for SATA drives with the Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon. It’s not the end of the world, but don’t expect to run two M.2 SSDs with six SATA drives. That’s not happening.

You can have six SATA drives only if you install one SSD in the first M.2 socket in PCIe mode. With two SSDs in PCIe mode, you can only have a maximum of four SATA drives.

 

Audio Boost 4 with Nahimic 3

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) features their Audio Boost 4 audio technology, which promises to deliver “studio-grade” audio capabilities.

Although MSI has been quite reticent about their Audio Boost 4 technology, our investigation revealed that it consists of :

[adrotate group=”2″]
  • an EMI-shielded Realtek ALC1220P audio processor
  • an isolated audio circuit
  • Japanese-made Chemi-Con capacitors
  • dual op amplifiers
  • Nahimic 3 virtual 7.1 sound software

Their Nahimic 3 software is what creates a virtual 7.1 surround sound effect out of ordinary stereo sound. It will give you better directional audio cues when you game, and a more immersive listening experience when you watch movies, or listen to music.

 

Rear I/O Ports

The MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) has pre-installed shields for the rear I/O ports, for easier installation and better EMI protection.

To the left are two USB 2.0 Type A ports with a PS/2 combo port above, followed by the DisplayPort and HDMI ports. Marked in red are two USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports – one Type A and one Type C.

Next, you have the Intel I219V LAN port, with two USB 3.1 Gen 1 ports (red). Finally, we have the five audio ports and the optical S/PDIF out port.

 

MSI Mystic Light

As its name suggests, the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) is designed to appeal to gamers. Hence, it supports the MSI Mystic Light technology, which allows you to control and sync RGB LED lighting on the motherboard and other compatible devices.

Mystic Light gives you full control of the 16.8 million LED colours with 29 light effects. Thanks to the provided extension cables, it is compatible with standard RGB, RAINBOW as well as CORSAIR LED lights.

Next Page > Our Verdict + Award, Price + Availability

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

Our Verdict & Award

MSI is an old hand at designing and manufacturing quality motherboards, and that experience shows in the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY). After all, this is a motherboard that is designed to appeal to both gamers and overclockers, and it takes some finesse to get the mix just right.

Hardware enthusiasts and overclockers will like its enhanced CPU overclocking features that include an 11+2 phase digital PWM architecture, and easy overclocking via the MSI Dragon Center software. With improved circuitry routing and EMI protection, it also offers improved DDR4 memory overclockability to 4.4 GHz.

Gamers who want an edge over their competitors without the “hassle” of overclocking will love the automatic overclocking features in the MSI Dragon Center – Game Boost, XMP and fan controls. Everything can be controlled with a click (or two) of a button!

Gamers who love to show off their cases will also love the Mystic Light capability built in. Not only does this motherboard support standard RGB lights, it also supports CORSAIR and RAINBOW RGB lights.

Even audiophiles are not left out. Its Audio Boost 4 technology promises to deliver studio-grade high-definition audio through isolated audio circuitry, with an EMI-shielded audio processor, and dual headphone amplifiers.

If that’s not enough, it comes with the Nahimic 3 virtual 7.1 sound software to create an expansive 3D soundscape for a more immersive and realistic gaming and entertainment experience.

Being designed for the mainstream market, there are some feature compromises, to be sure.

It has two M.2 sockets but only one is cooled by a heatsink. It also has limited SATA ports, and no SATA Express ports. There is a set of four EZ Debug LED lights, but there are no onboard Power or Reset buttons, which some enthusiasts favour.

But if you can live with those small compromises, this is a well-made Intel Z390 motherboard that offers a lot of great features at a really affordable price of just $200 in the US.

For these reasons, we think the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (US | UK | MY) deserves our Reviewer’s Choice Award. Great job, MSI!

 

MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon Price + Availability

Our review sample is of the “standard” MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon motherboard with an official price of US$ 199 / ~£159 / RM 834.

MSI also offers an AC variant that adds WiFi-AC connectivity, called the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon AC. It has an official price of US$ 229 / ~£183 / RM 960..

Here are some direct purchase links of the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon (prices accurate as of 14 December 2018) :

[adrotate group=”2″]

And here are some direct purchase links of the MSI MPG Z390 Gaming Pro Carbon AC (prices accurate as of 14 December 2018) :

 

Reading Suggestions

Here are other Intel Coffee Lake-related articles you should read!

Go Back To > First Page | Computer Hardware + Systems | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

Intel Core i9-9900K Preview 2.0 – World’s Best Gaming CPU?

Intel officially announced the Intel Core i9-9900K on 8 October 2018, calling it the world’s best gaming processor. Let’s take a closer look at this flagship member of the 9th Generation Intel Core processor family!

Updated @ 2018-10-23 : Added an Intel Hyper-Threading section, updated the 9th Generation Intel Core processor price list, and corrected some mistakes.

Originally posted @ 2018-10-19

 

The Intel Coffee Lake Processors

The 9th Generation Intel Core processors are based on the same Coffee Lake microarchitecture as the 8th Generation Intel Core processors. When they were first announced last year, the 8th Gen Core processors commanded great interest, because they were the first desktop processors to boast a major boost in performance, thanks to the addition of additional cores.

The 9th Generation Intel Core processors may be based on the same microarchitecture, but Intel repeats the same winning formula – add cores for more performance! All thanks to the Ryzen Effect! So here is basically what the 9th Gen offers over the 8th Gen :

Intel Core i9 : 6 cores, 12 threads >>> 8 cores, 16 threads

Intel Core i7 : 6 cores, 12 threads >>> 8 cores, 8 threads

Intel Core i5 : 4 cores, 4 threads >>> 6 cores, 6 threads

Note : The 8th Gen Core i9 was only available for the mobile platform. The desktop Core i9 was only introduced in the 9th Generation.

 

Intel Hyper-Threading

In the 9th Generation, Intel drops Hyper-Threading in their Core i7 processors for the first time ever. Hyper-Threading is now available only in the Core i9. The Core i7 is now more like the Core i5, with two additional cores.

What Intel has essentially done is split the Core i7 into a higher-end Core i9 line with Hyper-Threading, and a lower-end Core i7 line without Hyper-Threading.

 

9th Generation Intel Core Processor Specifications

There are just three models in the first salvo of 9th Generation Intel Core processors – the Intel Core i9-9900K (US | UK), the Intel Core i7-9700K (US | UK) and the Intel Core i5-9600K (US | UK). Here is a comparison of their specifications :

SpecificationsIntel Core i9-9900KIntel Core i7-9700KIntel Core i5-9600K
CodenameCoffee LakeCoffee LakeCoffee Lake
SocketFCLGA1151FCLGA1151FCLGA1151
Process Technology14 nm tri-gate14 nm tri-gate14 nm tri-gate
Cores / Threads8 / 168 / 86 / 6
Base Frequency3.6 GHz3.6 GHz3.7 GHz
Boost Frequency5.0 GHz4.9 GHz4.6 GHz
L2 Cache256 KB x 8256 KB x 8256 KB x 6
L3 Cache16 MB12 MB9 MB
Bus Speed8 GT/s DMI38 GT/s DMI38 GT/s DMI3
Memory SupportDDR4-2666 (Dual Channel)DDR4-2666 (Dual Channel)DDR4-2666 (Dual Channel)
Max. Memory Bandwidth41.6 GB/s41.6 GB/s41.6 GB/s
Processor GraphicsIntel UHD Graphics 630
- 350 MHz to 1.2 GHz
Intel UHD Graphics 630
- 350 MHz to 1.2 GHz
Intel UHD Graphics 630
- 350 MHz to 1.15 GHz
TDP95 W95 W95 W
[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Unboxing The Intel Core i9-9900K

The Intel Core i9-9900K (US | UK) comes in a rather retail box, which is rather surprising since it doesn’t come with a bundled cooler. So what’s inside the box? Let’s find out!

Next Page > The Intel Core i9-9900K Up Close, Performance, Price + Availability

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


The Intel Core i9-9900K Up Close!

The Intel Core i9-9900K (US | UK) has eight cores that can handle up to 16 simultaneous threads. It has a 4 MB L2 cache and a large 16 MB L3 cache; and supports DDR4-2666 memory.

This new processor has a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz, with a Turbo Boost speed of up to 5.0 GHz.. It is an enthusiast-grade desktop processor, which means it is multiplier-unlocked for easier overclocking.

The Intel Core i9-9900K (US | UK) still uses the LGA 1151 socket, but is only compatible with the Intel 300-series chipsets. The new Intel Z390 chipset was released together with it, offering native USB 3.1 Gen 2 ports, support for SDXC, and integrated 802.11ac connectivity.

 

Intel Core i9-9900K Performance

We did not have any time to test the Intel Core i9-9900K (US | UK) but Intel shared with us some performance numbers, running on the GIGABYTE Z390 AORUS PRO WiFi motherboard, and using the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti graphics card :

CPU Benchmarks
POV-Ray Single-Threaded 612 PPS
POV-Ray Multiple-Threaded 5,554 PPS
WebXPRT 3 Score 284
Graphics Benchmarks
3DMark FireStrike – Overall 24,142
3DMark FireStrike – Graphics 28,177
3DMark FireStrike – Physics 24,854
3DMark FireStrike – Combined 11,405

 

9th Generation Intel Core Processor Price + Availability

The 9th Generation Intel Core processors are available with immediate effect at these recommended consumer prices :

[adrotate group=”2″]
  • Intel Core i9-9900K : US$ 488
  • Intel Core i7-9700K : US$ 374
  • Intel Core i5-9600K : US$ 262

Here are some direct purchase links, with prices accurate as of 23 October 2018.

  • Intel Core i9-9900K : US$ 579.99 (US) | £920.13 (UK)
  • Intel Core i7-9700K : US$ 409.99 (US ) | £510.54 (UK)
  • Intel Core i5-9600K : US$ 279.99 (US) | £527.09 (UK)

 

Recommended Reading

Don’t forget to also read our other Intel and AMD articles :

Go Back To > First Page | Computer Hardware + Systems | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


The ASUS Coffee Lake Gaming Laptops Revealed!

ASUS just refreshed their entire range of gaming laptops with the new 8th Gen Intel Core processors, codenamed Coffee Lake, and added two new gaming laptop models. Here is everything you need to know about the ASUS Coffee Lake gaming laptops!

 

The ASUS Coffee Lake Gaming Laptops

ASUS ROG Product Manager Louis Lu gave us a thorough briefing on the key features of the ASUS Coffee Lake gaming laptops, as well as their specifications and prices. He also compared them to the competition from MSI, Lenovo, Acer and Dell.

Intel Coffee Lake Processors

The new ASUS Coffee Lake gaming laptops all come with the new 8th Gen Intel Core processors. Codenamed Coffee Lake, they offer up to 6 processor cores, with 10% better performance than the 7th Gen Core (Kaby Lake) processors, and 30% better performance than the 6th Gen (Skylake) Core processors.

12V Fans

[adrotate group=”2″]

The new ASUS Coffee Lake gaming laptops feature 12V fans, which spin 20% faster than regular 5V fans. The new fans also have 59 blades, up from just 37 blades. This allows them to deliver 42.5% more airflow, with 92% higher air pressure.

Anti-Dust Cooling System

The fans in the ASUS Coffee Lake gaming laptops feature an exclusive Anti-Dust Cooling System. It basically harnesses the centrifugal force of the fans to shunt dust and debris into an “anti-dust tunnel”. This reduces the amount of dust clogging the heatsinks.

This helps to maintain the performance of the CPU and GPU coolers over time. Keeping the heatsinks clean will also help to reduce fan noise, since the fans don’t need to work harder.

 

The ASUS Coffee Lake Gaming Laptop Models

2018 ASUS ROG G703

2018 ASUS ROG Zephyrus GX501

ASUS ROG Zephyrus M GM501 New Model!

2018 ASUS ROG Strix Hero Edition

ASUS TUF Gaming FX504 New Series!

Next Page > Specifications, Price + Availability

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


ASUS Coffee Lake Gaming Laptop Specifications, Price & Availability

Category

Series

Model

Specifications (Malaysia)

Panel

SRP

Availability

ROG

G703

G703G-IE5095T

i9-8950HK / 16G*2
2T(54) + 256G*2
GTX 1080 8G
FHD 144 Hz

IPS

RM 19,999
~US$ 5,128

May 2018

Zephyrus

GX501G-IEI017T

i7-8750H / 16+8G
1T PCIE SSD
GTX 1080 8G
FHD WV 300 nits 144 Hz

IPS

RM 15,999
~US$ 4,102

End of
April 2018

Zephyrus-M

GM501G-SEI006T

i7-8750H / 16G
1T SSHD + 256G PCIE SSD
GTX 1070 8G
FHD WV 300 nits 144 Hz

IPS

RM 9,299
~US$ 2,384

End of
April 2018

Strix Scar Edition

GL703G-SE5026T

i7-8750H / 16G
1T SSHD + 256G PCIE SSD
GTX 1070 8G
FHD WV 300 nits 144 Hz

IPS

RM 8,799
~US$ 2,256

Available now

Zephyrus-M

GM501G-MEI011T

i7-8750H / 16G
1T SSHD + 256G PCIE SSD
GTX 1060 6G
FHD WV 300 nits 144 Hz

IPS

RM 7,999
~US$ 2,051

End of
April 2018

Strix Scar Edition

GL703G-ME5029T

i7-8750H / 8G
1T SSHD + 256G PCIE SSD
GTX 1060 6G
FHD WV 300 nits 144 Hz

IPS

RM 6,999
~US$ 1,795

Available now

Strix Scar Edition

GL703G-EEE035T

i7-8750H / 8G
1T SSHD + 128G PCIE SSD
GTX 1050 Ti 4G
FHD WV 300 nits 120 Hz

TN

RM 5,299
~US$ 1,359

Available now

Strix Hero Edition

GL503G-EEN057T

i7-8750H / 8G
1T SSHD + 128G PCIE SSD
GTX 1050 Ti 4G
FHD WV 300 nits 120 Hz

TN

RM 4,899
~US$ 1,256

Available now

TUF Gaming

ASUS TUF

FX504G-EE4071T

i7-8750H / 4G
1T SSHD + 128G PCIE SSD
GTX 1050 Ti 4G
FHD IPS WV 250 nits 60 Hz

IPS

RM 4,399
~US$ 1,128

Available now

ASUS TUF

FX504G-DE4096T

i7-8750H / 4G
1T SSHD + 128G PCIE SSD
GTX 1050 4G
FHD IPS WV 250 nits 60 Hz

IPS

RM 4,199
~US$ 1.077

Available now

ASUS TUF

FX504G-DE4092T

i7-8750H / 4G
1T SSHD
GTX 1050 4G
FHD IPS WV 250 nits 60 Hz

IPS

RM 3,899
~US$ 999

Available now

ASUS TUF

FX504G-DDM091T

i5-8300H / 4G
1T SSHD
GTX 1050 4G
FHD TN 200 nits 60 Hz

TN

RM 3,299
~US$ 846

Available now

 

Suggested Reading

[adrotate group=”2″]

Go Back To > First PageEvents | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!


The MSI Coffee Lake Gaming Laptops Revealed!

The three new MSI Coffee Lake gaming laptops – MSI GS65 Stealth Thin, MSI GT75 Titan with Intel Core i9 processor and MSI GE Raider RGB Edition – are all based on the new 8th Gen Intel Core (Coffee Lake) processors. Check them out below!

 

The MSI Coffee Lake Gaming Laptops Revealed!

Introducing the new MSI Coffee Lake gaming laptops is Pia Huang, MSI Malaysia Notebook Channel Marketing Manager.

Don’t forget to check out our previews of these new MSI Coffee Lake gaming laptops :

 

The MSI GS65 Stealth Thin

The MSI GS65 Stealth Thin is the first gaming laptop to feature a 144 Hz 7 ms IPS display with 4.9 mm bezels – achieving a stunning 82% screen-to-body ratio. While the bezels are extremely thin, MSI left just enough room in the top bezel for the webcam, as opposed to being awkwardly placed within the bottom bezel.

To power the 144 Hz panel, the GS65 Stealth Thin is equipped with up to a GeForce GTX 1070 with NVIDIA Max-Q technology and the latest 8th generation Intel Core i7 processor, with up to 40% boost in performance over the previous generation.

Weighing just 1.8 kg, the GS65 Stealth Thin packs 8+ hours of battery life into the slim chassis, providing real portability not traditionally found in powerful gaming laptops. Its 82 Whr battery is one of the largest batteries available in a laptop this size.

The GS65 Stealth Thin also features a new per-key RGB keyboard designed by SteelSeries. Users can customize each key and receive real-time game status through keyboard lighting. MSI is also rolling out a massive update for Dragon Center 2.0 that comes with an exclusive gaming mode. The gaming mode now optimizes system performance and game-specific keyboard lighting for a list of supported new titles.

More info @ MSI GS65 Stealth Thin Gaming Laptop Preview

 

The MSI GE Raider RGB Edition

First announced at CES, the MSI GE63/73 Raider RGB Edition is inspired by sports cars and the love for RGB. It was crafted for ultra-illumination with RGB lighting on the top cover, keyboard and USB ports. The top cover features 24 separate zones of RGB lighting with more than 16.8 million colors available.

The GE Raider RGB Edition is configurable with up to the latest 8th generation Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1070 graphics. It is kept cooled by MSI Cooler Boost 5, a cooling design with dual fans and seven copper heats pipes offering the most stable experience on a laptop.

The GE Raider RGB Edition also boasts Nahimic 3 audio, Killer networking, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity. Additionally, the Raider can be equipped with up to a 120 Hz 3 ms display.

More info @ MSI GE63 Raider RGB 8RF Gaming Laptop Preview

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

The MSI GT75 Titan with Core i9 CPU

With the introduction of the latest 8th Generation Intel processors, the GT series is taking one step further by featuring the world’s first Intel Core i9 overclocked processors in a gaming laptop. MSI coupled it with NVIDIA graphics and mechanical keyboards.

The MSI GT75 Titan is the first gaming laptop to ever feature Intel Core i9 processors. Combined with MSI’s Cooler Boost Titan cooling design, the six-core 12-thread configuration results in up to a 70% performance leap over the previous Core i7. The extra cores are especially beneficial for gamers who stream their gameplay, or for advanced multitasking workloads.

More info @ MSI GT75 Titan 8RG (Core i9) Gaming Laptop Preview

 

Price & Availability

Here are some purchase links of the new MSI Coffee Lake gaming laptops :

  • GE75 Raider (GTX 1070, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB + 2 GB) : US$ 2,625
  • GE75 Raider (GTX 1070, 32 GB RAM, 512 GB + 1 GB) : US$ 2,375
  • GE75 Raider (GTX 1070, 32 GB RAM, 256 GB + 1 GB) : US$ 2,145
  • GE63 Raider RGB (GTX 1070, 16 GB RAM, 256 GB + 1 TB) : $1,999
  • GE63 Raider RGB (GTX 1060, 16 GB RAM, 256 GB + 1 TB) : $1,699
  • GE63 Raider RGB (GTX 1060, 16 GB RAM, 128 GB + 1 TB) : $1,599
  • GS65 Stealth Thin (GTX 1070, 32 GB RAM, 1 TB SSD) : US$ 2,999
  • GS65 Stealth Thin (GTX 1070, 32 GB RAM, 512 GB SSD) : US$ 2,499
  • GS65 Stealth Thin (GTX 1070, 16 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD) : US$ 2,099
  • GS65 Stealth Thin (GTX 1060, 16 GB RAM, 256 GB SSD) : US$ 1,799
  • GT75 Titan (i9-8950HK, GTX 1080, 32 GB, 1 TB + 1 TB) : US$ 4,499
  • GT75 Titan (i9-8950HK, GTX 1080, 32 GB, 512 GB + 1 TB) : US$ 3,999
  • GT75 Titan (i9-8950HK, GTX 1080, 16 GB, 1 TB HDD) : US$ 3,299
  • GT75 Titan (i7-8850H, GTX 1080, 16 GB, 1 TB HDD) : US$ 2,799
  • GT75 Titan (i7-8850H, GTX 1070, 16 GB, 1 TB HDD) : US$ 2,399

 

Suggested Reading

Go Back To > Events | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participate in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donate to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The Intel Cannon Lake Processor Details Leaked!

During our continuing coverage of Meltdown and Spectre, we noticed that Intel accidentally leaked details of their upcoming 10 nm Cannon Lake processors. Let’s take a look at what we found!

 

The Intel Cannon Lake Processor

Cannon Lake is the long-delayed 10 nm die shrink of the Intel Kaby Lake microarchitecture. Originally slated for release in 2016, Intel delayed it in favour of another 14 nm process refinement with the Intel Coffee Lake processors.

In addition to a die shrink that would allow it to deliver better performance with lower power consumption and thermal output, the Cannon Lake processors will also boast the AVX-512 instruction set.

At CES 2018, Intel announced that they have already started shipping mobile Cannon Lake processors to their partners, with a production ramp-up in 2018. So we know for sure Cannon Lake will finally see the light of day in 2018.

 

What Intel Leaked On Cannon Lake

In their second Spectre 2 microcode update schedule, Intel accidentally released references to two Cannon Lake-U (CNL-U) processors.

The shorthand numbers appear to indicate that :

[adrotate group=”2″]
  • they are ultra-low power mobile processors, with a 15 W TDP
  • the (2+2) model is a dual-core processor with an Intel GT2 integrated graphics
  • the (2+0) model is a dual-core processor without integrated graphics

The (2+0) model is interesting because it’s the first U-grade Intel mobile processor to not come with integrated graphics.

Is this meant to be used in applications that do not require displays, like a NAS? Could it possibly be used in an MCM package with Radeon Graphics? Or is this a higher-performance part to be paired with discrete graphics options from AMD or NVIDIA?

 

Cannon Lake Availability

Intel was not specific about when exactly they will launch these mobile Cannon Lake processors, but we can glean some details from their leaked microcode update schedule.

We can see that the Cannon Lake BIOS is currently in beta testing. So a Q1 launch is unlikely, but a Q2 launch is most definitely on the table. In fact, we think that its launch got delayed after the Intel Spectre 2 reboot issue.

Intel probably delayed its official launch until they can make sure they have a fully-patched BIOS. It wouldn’t be good PR to launch the Cannon Lake processors, without being able to claim that they’re fully-protected against Meltdown and Spectre.

 

They’re Vulnerable To Meltdown + Spectre?

Yes, the Cannon Lake processors are all vulnerable to Meltdown and Spectre. These processors were taped out long ago. It was the Intel 10 nm process technology that was not sufficiently mature, not the Cannon Lake design.

Only the next-generation Intel Ice Lake processors, which features a new microarchitecture, will no longer be vulnerable to Meltdown and Spectre.

 

Suggested Reading

Go Back To > Articles | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

Everything You Need To Know About The Intel Coffee Lake CPUs! Rev 3.1

Intel fans have been waiting eagerly for the Intel Coffee Lake desktop processors ever since AMD introduced their Ryzen 7, Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 family of processors. Coffee Lake is the codename for the 8th Generation Intel Core desktop processors that Intel is going to launch very soon. Here is everything you need to know about the 8th Generation Intel Core desktop processors.

Don’t forget to read The 8th Gen Intel Core Desktop Processor Tech Report and how The Ryzen Effect created better Coffee Lake processors!

Updated @ 2017-10-10 : Updated the Malaysian pricing for the Intel Coffee Lake processors.

Updated @ 2017-10-09 : Added the Intel Coffee Lake Malaysia price and availability, as well as other minor updates.

Updated @ 2017-09-26 : Added new information and table on the Intel Coffee Lake processor prices and availability. Various other updates.

Originally posted @ 2017-09-11

 

The Intel Coffee Lake Processors

Codenamed Coffee Lake, the 8th Generation Intel Core processors are the first Intel processors in years to command great interest. Why? Because they will all boast two additional processor cores, finally delivering the big performance boost we have been waiting for.

With Intel Coffee Lake, Intel is changing the number of cores in the Core i7, Core i5 and Core i3 processor families :

Intel Core i7 : 4 cores, 8 threads -> 6 cores, 12 threads

Intel Core i5 : 4 cores, 4 threads -> 6 cores, 6 threads

Intel Core i3 : 2 cores, 4 threads -> 4 cores, 4 threads

The first slew of Intel Coffee Lake processors to hit the market are the Core i7-8700K, the Core i7-8700, the Core i5-8600K, the Core i5-8400, the Core i3-8350K, the Core i3-8300 and the Core i3-8100.

Intel will also launch three Pentium models based on Coffee Lake – the Pentium G4720, the Pentium G4700 and the Pentium G4660. They will be priced at less than US$100 MSRP.

 

The Intel Coffee Lake Processor Specifications

Here is a table comparing the key specifications of the Intel Coffee Lake processors :

SpecificationsCore i7-8700KCore i7-8700Core i5-8600KCore i5-8400Core i3-8350KCore i3-8300Core i3-8100
Cores6666444
Threads121266444
Base Clock3.7 GHz3.2 GHz3.5 GHz2.8 GHz4.0 GHz4.0 GHz3.6 GHz
Boost Clock4.7 GHz4.6 GHz4.4 GHz3.9 GHzNoneNoneNone
L1 Cache384 KB384 KB384 KB384 KB256 KB256 KB256 KB
L2 Cache1.5 MB1.5 MB1.5 MB1.5 MB1 MB1 MB1 MB
L3 Cache12 MB12 MB9 MB9 MB8 MB6 MB6 MB
Multiplier UnlockedYesNoYesNoYesNoNo
TDP95 W65 W95 W65 W91 W65 W65 W
[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Worldwide Price & Availability

Intel will officially make the 8th Generation Intel Core desktop processors available on 5 October 2017. We confirmed this date through multiple sources. If you are checking for the availability of these processors online to pre-order, here are their part numbers :

Intel Core i7-8700K : BX80684I78700K

Intel Core i7-8700 : BX80684I78700

Intel Core i5-8600K : BX80684I58600K

Intel Core i5-8400 : BX80684I58400

Intel Core i3-3850K : BX80684I38350K

Intel Core i3-8100 : BX80684I38100

Most of the processors will be priced at the same price points as the preceding 7th Generation Core processor models. Intel will only hike the prices of the K-grade models of the Core i7 and Core i5 families.

Intel Core i7 K-grade models : +$20 premium (gen on gen)

Intel Core i5 K-grade models : +$15 premium (gen on gen)

All other Core i7, i5 and i3 models : PRICE PARITY!

Intel just confirmed that our leaked information is correct. Check out the official prices for the Intel Coffee Lake processors (in 1K quantities) :

8th Gen Intel Core 7th Gen Intel Core Difference
Model Launch Price Model Launch Price
Core i7-8700K $359 Core i7-7700K $339 +$20
Core i7-8700 $303 Core i7-7700 $303
Core i5-8600K $257 Core i5-7600K $242 +$15
Core i5-8400 $182 Core i5-7400 $182
Core i3-8350K $168 Core i3-7350K $168
Core i3-8100 $117 Core i3-7100 $117

Of course, those are price premiums for 1K quantities. The final market price will be considerably more expensive, at least initially. IO-Tech, for example, leaked EU prices of the K-grade processors that show a considerable price premium on those parts :

Intel Core i7-8700K : €419 (+€95 premium)

Intel Core i5-8600K : €299 (+€75 premium)

Intel Core i3-8350K : €199 (+€50 premium)

 

Intel Coffee Lake Malaysia Price & Availability Updated!

Here in Malaysia, only these four Coffee Lake CPUs are available, with considerable variation in the initial prices quoted by ETECH PC and Compuzone. ETECH PC is offering a lower price because the processor must be part of a system build. Compuzone, on the other hand, sells the retail boxed processors.

Intel Core i7-8700K (Retail Box) : RM 1,730 / ~$412
Intel Core i7-8700K (System Build) : RM 1,599 / ~$380

Intel Core i5-8400 (Retail Box) : RM 919 / ~$218
Intel Core i5-8400 (System Build) : RM 809 / ~$193

Intel Core i3-8350K (Retail Box) : RM 833 / ~$198
Intel Core i3-8350K (System Build) : RM 765 / ~$182

Intel Core i3-8100 (Retail Box) : RM 573 / ~$136
Intel Core i3-8100 (System Build) : RM 509 / ~$121

 

Reading Suggestions

Don’t forget to also read our other Intel Coffee Lake and AMD Ryzen-related articles :

[adrotate group=”2″]

Go Back To Articles | Home

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The 11 New ASUS Z370 Motherboards Revealed!

Intel have officially launched the 8th Generation Intel Core processors (codenamed Coffee Lake)! In this article, we will share with you details, videos, pictures and specifications of the 11 new ASUS Z370 motherboards you can pair with your Intel Coffee Lake processor of choice! Which of these ASUS Z370 motherboards will fit your requirements? Read on and find out!

Everything You Need To Know About The ASUS Z370 Motherboards

We will go into the details of the individual ASUS Z370 motherboards, including their specifications. Here are their direct links :

[adrotate group=”2″]

Don’t forget to also check out our video overviews of the 11 ASUS Z370 motherboards :

Finally, we will share with you the ASUS Z370 motherboard prices and availability, as well as purchase links :

But first, let’s take a look at the presentations on the ASUS Z370 motherboards and a special overclocking demonstration by Coolice!

Updated @ 2017-10-06 : Added the ASUS Z370 motherboard prices and availability. Various minor changes.

Originally posted @ 2017-09-29

 

The New ASUS Z370 Coffee Lake Motherboards Revealed!

At an exclusive regional shindig, ASUS gave us the lowdown on their upcoming Z370 motherboards. Let’s start with the ROG Z370 Gaming series of motherboards.

Then ASUS revealed the new TUF Gaming series for casual gamers, and the ASUS Prime Z370-A motherboard.

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Watch Coolice Overclock The Core i7-8700K To 6.6 GHz!

ASUS also brought overclocker Coolice to showcase the overclockability of the 8th Generation Intel Core processor. He paired the Intel Core i7-8700K with the new ASUS Maximus X Apex Z370 motherboard and used liquid nitrogen cooling, to achieve a clock speed of 6.6 GHz!

Now, let’s take a look at the details and specifications of the new ASUS Z370 motherboards!

Next Page > The ASUS ROG Z370 Motherboards, ROG Maximus X Apex & ROG Maximus X Hero

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The ASUS ROG Z370 Motherboards

The ASUS ROG family of Z370 motherboards is divided into the ROG Maximus series, and the ROG Strix series. The ROG Maximus motherboards offer the best features and performance for gamers and enthusiasts, while the ROG Strix motherboards offer key ROG features at more affordable price points.

Here are the specifications of the ASUS ROG Z370 motherboards :

SpecificationsMaximus X ApexMaximus X HeroStrix Z370-E GamingStrix Z370-F GamingStrix Z370-H GamingStrix Z370-G GamingStrix Z370-I Gaming
Form FactorEATXATXATXATXATXmicroATXMini ATX
Memory Slots2 X DDR4
(4266+ OC)
4 x DDR4
(4133+ OC)
4 x DDR4
(4000 OC)
4 x DDR4
(4000 OC)
4 x DDR4
(3866 OC)
4 x DDR4
(4000 OC)
4 x DDR4
(4333+ OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
4-way CrossFire
2-way SLI
3-way CrossFire
2-way SLI
3-way CrossFire
2-way SLI
3-way CrossFire
2-way SLI
2-way CrossFire
2-way SLI
2-way CrossFire
NA
PCIe Slots4 x PCIe x16
2 x PCIe x1
3 x PCIe x16
3 x PCIe x1
3 x PCIe x16
4 x PCIe x1
3 x PCIe x16
4 x PCIe x1
3 x PCIe x16
3 x PCIe x1
2 x PCIe x16
2 x PCIe x1
1 x PCIe x16
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x42 x NVMe x42 x NVMe x42 x NVMe x42 x NVMe x42 x PCIe x42 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports4666664
LAN PortsAquantia 5 Gigabit
Intel 1 Gigabit
Intel 1 GigabitIntel 1 GigabitIntel 1 GigabitIntel 1 GigabitIntel 1 GigabitIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFiNA802.11ac802.11acNANA802.11ac802.11ac
AudioSupremeFX S1220ASupremeFX S1220
ESS Sabre ES9203P
SupremeFX S1220ASupremeFX S1220ASupremeFX S1220ASupremeFX S1220ASupremeFX S1220A
USB 3.1 Gen21 x Type C
1 x Type A
1 x front header
1 x Type C
1 x Type A
1 x Front
1 x Type C
1 x Type A
1 x Type C
1 x Type A
2 x Type A2 x Type A1 x front header
Aura Sync Headers4 Strip2 Strip
1 Address
2 Strip
1 Address
2 Strip
1 Address
NANA1 Address

 

The ASUS ROG Maximus X Apex Motherboard

This is the motherboard Coolice used to overclock the Intel Core i7-8700K to 6.6 GHz. That’s because the ROG Maximus is designed for extreme overclocking. It boasts special operating modes for liquid nitrogen cooling, and even a special fan bracket for the IO heatsink to let overclockers blow away LN2 vapour!

To ensure greater overclockability of the memory modules, the Maximus X Apex uses only two DDR4 memory slots. With the traces slightly more direct with only one slot per memory channel, the memory modules can be overclocked to 4200 MHz and beyond.

SpecificationsASUS ROG Maximus X Apex
Form FactorExtended ATX
Memory Slots2 X DDR4
(4266+ OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
4-way CrossFire
PCIe Slots4 x PCIe x16
2 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports4 x SATA 6 Gbps
LAN PortsAquantia 5 Gigabit
Intel 1 Gigabit
WiFiNA
AudioSupremeFX S1220A codec
USB 3.1 Gen21 x Type C
1 x Type A
Aura SyncVRM heatsink, chipset heatsink, nameplate, PCB backlight, 4 x strip headers
Cooling2 x pump headers
5 x fan headers
3 x full-speed fan headers
4 x thermal sensor headers
1 x flow header
[adrotate group=”1″]

 

The ASUS ROG Maximus X Hero Motherboard

The ASUS ROG Maximus X Hero is designed to support both liquid and air coolers, as well as AIO coolers and standalone pumps, with headers for monitoring liquid temperatures and flow. It is also compatible with the ASUS Fan Extension Card, which adds headers for more fans and temperature probes.

Catering to audiophiles, the Maximus X Hero pairs the SupremeFX codec with an ESS Sabre DAC for greater range and an exceptional 120 dB SNR. It also boasts an integrated I/O shield for easier installation and a cleaner look.

Suggested Retail Price At Launch : US$ 289.99

SpecificationsASUS ROG Maximus X Hero
Form FactorATX
Memory Slots4 x DDR4
(4133+ OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
3-way CrossFire
PCIe Slots3 x PCIe x16
3 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports6
LAN PortsIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFi802.11ac
AudioSupremeFX S1220 codec
ESS Sabre ES9203P DAC
USB 3.1 Gen21 x front header
1 x Type C
1 x Type A
Aura SyncIO shield, M.2 heatsink, chipset heatsink, 2 x strip headers, 1 x addressable header
Cooling2 x pump headers
5 x fan headers
1 x high-speed fan header
3 x thermal sensor headers
1 x flow header

Next Page > The ASUS ROG Strix Z370 Motherboards

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming & Z370-F Gaming

The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-E Gaming and Z370-F Gaming are almost identical. They both have two PCIe x16 slots with SafeSlot reinforcement, and four DDR4-4000 memory slots. They also have dual M.2 slots – both cooled by a large M.2 heatsink that reduces operating temperatures by up to 15°C.

The only real difference is their colour schemes. The Z370-E has integrated WiFi and a gleaming silver finish on its heatsinks and I/O shroud, while the Z370-F has no WiFi capabilities and subtle charcoal shades.

Suggested Retail Price At Launch : US$ 194.99

SpecificationsASUS ROG Strix Z370-E GamingASUS ROG Strix Z370-F Gaming
Form FactorATXATX
Memory Slots4 x DDR4
(4000 OC)
4 x DDR4
(4000 OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
3-way CrossFire
2-way SLI
3-way CrossFire
PCIe Slots3 x PCIe x16
4 x PCIe x1
3 x PCIe x16
4 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x42 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports66
LAN PortsIntel 1 GigabitIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFi802.11ac (2x2)NA
AudioSupremeFX S1220ASupremeFX S1220A
USB 3.1 Gen21 x Front
1 x Type C
1 x Type A
1 x Type C
1 x Type A
Aura SyncIO shield, 2 x strip headers, 1 x addressable headerIO shield, 2 x strip headers, 1 x addressable header
Cooling1 x AIO header
5 x fan headers
1 x thermal sensor header
1 x AIO header
5 x fan headers
1 x thermal sensor header

 

The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-H Gaming

The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-H Gaming is an entry-level ROG motherboard with all the essential features. It has dual PCIe x16 slots with SafeSlot protection, and support for 2-way SLI and CrossFire, as well as dual NVMe slots. The Strix Z370-H Gaming has four fan headers, with one AIO cooler header. It only lacks sensor grouping and GPU temperature detection.

Recommended Retail Price At Launch : US$ 169.99

SpecificationsASUS ROG Strix Z370-H Gaming
Form FactorATX
Memory Slots4 x DDR4
(3866 OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
2-way CrossFire
PCIe Slots3 x PCIe x16
3 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports6
LAN PortsIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFiNA
AudioSupremeFX S1220A
USB 3.1 Gen22 x Type A
Aura Sync HeadersNA
Cooling1 x AIO header
4 x fan headers
[adrotate group=”1″]

 

The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-G Gaming

The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-G Gaming is a microATX motherboard with two PCIe x16 slots with SafeSlot protection. It even supports 2-way SLI and CrossFire, but cannot fit larger 2.5 slots cards like the GeForce GTX 1080 Ti. There are two M.2 slots, but one of them is located under the second PCIe slot.

Suggested Retail Price At Launch : US$ 184.99

SpecificationsASUS ROG Strix Z370-G Gaming
Form FactormicroATX
Memory Slots4 x DDR4
(4000 OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
2-way CrossFire
PCIe Slots2 x PCIe x16
2 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x PCIe x4
SATA Ports6
LAN PortsIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFi802.11ac
AudioSupremeFX S1220A
USB 3.1 Gen22 x Type A
Aura Sync HeadersNA
Cooling1 x pump header
4 x fan headers
1 x thermal sensor header

 

The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-I Gaming

The ASUS ROG Strix Z370-I Gaming is a mini ITX motherboard that is capable of overclocking the memory to DDR4-4333 or better. It also has two M.2 SSD slots, but only one has a heatsink to keep it cool. The usual trimmings are there – SafeSlot protection, 802.11ac WiFi, SupremeFX audio and Fan Xpert 4 capability.

Suggested Retail Price At Launch : US$ 189.99

SpecificationsASUS ROG Strix Z370-I Gaming
Form FactorMini ATX
Memory Slots4 x DDR4
(4333+ OC)
Multi GPU SupportNA
PCIe Slots1 x PCIe x16
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports4
LAN PortsIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFi802.11ac
AudioSupremeFX S1220A
USB 3.1 Gen21 x front header
Aura Sync HeadersRight edge, 1 x addressable header
Cooling1 x AIO header
2 x fan headers
1 x thermal sensor header

Next Page > The ASUS Prime & TUF Gaming Z370 Motherboards, Prime Z370-A & Prime Z370-P

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The ASUS Prime & TUF Gaming Z370 Motherboards

The ASUS Prime motherboards are targeted at enthusiasts who don’t need gamer-oriented design or features. The new ASUS TUF Gaming series offers entry-level gaming motherboards.

 

The ASUS Prime Z370-A Motherboard

The ASUS Prime Z370-A motherboard has all of the key features like dual PCI Express slots with SafeSlot protection, two M.2 slots with integrated heatsink. There is even a dedicated mount for a fan bracket with a fan header if you are inclined to cool the M.2 SSDs with a fan.

Recommended Retail Price At Launch : US$ 174.99

SpecificationsASUS Prime Z370-A
Form FactorATX
Memory Slots2 X DDR4
(4000 OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
3-way CrossFire
PCIe Slots3 x PCIe x16
4 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports6
LAN PortsIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFiNA
AudioCrystal Sound 3 S1220A
USB 3.1 Gen21 x Type C
1 x Type A
Aura Sync Headers1 Strip
Cooling1 x AIO header
5 x fan headers
1 x thermal sensor header
[adrotate group=”1″]

 

The ASUS Prime Z370-P Motherboard

The ASUS Prime Z370-P motherboard is targeted at budget-minded system builders. It has two PCIe x16 slots, but does not support SLI or CrossFire. It has two M.2 slots, which are without any cooling, but placed away from the hot spots. This is the most affordable ASUS Z370 motherboard in the current line-up.

Suggested Retail Price At Launch : US$ 159.99

SpecificationsPrime Z370-P
Form FactorATX
Memory Slots4 x DDR4
(3866 OC)
Multi GPU SupportNA
PCIe Slots2 x PCIe x16
4 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports4
LAN PortsRealtek 1 Gigabit
WiFiNA
AudioRealtek ALC887
USB 3.1 Gen22 x Type A
Aura Sync HeadersNA
Cooling1 x AIO header
3 x fan headers

Next Page > The ASUS TUF Z370-Pro Gaming & TUF Z370-Plus Gaming, Price & Availability

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The ASUS TUF Z370-Pro Gaming Motherboard

The ASUS TUF Z370-Pro Gaming has three PCIe x16 slots, which supports 2-way SLI or 3-way CrossFire. However, the third slot is limited to two PCIe lanes, so a 3-way CrossFire is not a good idea. It has two M.2 slots, that supports the longer 110 mm drives.

Suggested Retail Price At Launch : US$ 159.99

SpecificationsTUF Z370-Pro Gaming
Form FactorATX
Memory Slots4 x DDR4
(3866 OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
2-way CrossFire
PCIe Slots3 x PCIe x16
3 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports6
LAN PortsIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFiNA
AudioRealtek ALC887
USB 3.1 Gen22 x Type A
Aura Sync HeadersNA
Cooling1 x AIO header
4 x fan headers

 

The ASUS TUF Z370-Plus Gaming Motherboard

The ASUS TUF Z370-Plus Gaming is a more affordable version of the TUF Z370-Pro. It lacks SLI support, but it supports 2-way CrossFire. That said, the second PCIe x16 slot only has four lanes of bandwidth to the Z370 chipset. It also supports two M.2 SSDs, with the lower one cooled by a heatsink.

Suggested Retail Price At Launch : US$ 149.99

SpecificationsTUF Z370-Plus Gaming
Form FactorATX
Memory Slots4 x DDR4
(3866 OC)
Multi GPU Support2-way SLI
2-way CrossFire
PCIe Slots2 x PCIe x16
4 x PCIe x1
M.2 Slots2 x NVMe x4
SATA Ports6
LAN PortsIntel 1 Gigabit
WiFiNA
AudioRealtek ALC887
USB 3.1 Gen22 x Type A
Aura Sync Headers1 Strip
Cooling2 x pump headers
3 x fan headers

 

The ASUS Z370 Motherboard Prices & Availability

The ASUS Z370 motherboards are available for purchase beginning 6 October 2017 onwards, at the following prices :

  • ROG Maximus X Hero : RM 1,386 (including 6% GST) / ~US$ 330
  • ROG Strix Z370-F Gaming : RM 999 (including 6% GST) / ~US$ 238
  • TUF Z370-Plus Gaming : RM 899 (including 6% GST) / ~US$ 214
  • PRIME Z370-P : RM 770 (including 6% GST) / ~US$ 183
[adrotate group=”2″]

Here are some direct purchase links :

 

Other Intel  Coffee Lake Articles

Here are other Intel Coffee Lake articles you should check out :

Go Back To > First Page | Articles | Home

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

Thank The Ryzen Effect For Better Intel Processors!

Intel has been in doldrums for years, literally stagnating in the lack of competition. Their dominance of the desktop and mobile processor market led them into a vicious cycle of uninspiring products and lacklustre market reception… until the AMD Ryzen arrived on the scene. Let’s look at how the Ryzen Effect helped to create better Intel Coffee Lake processors!

Updated @ 2017-10-01 : Added more information to the comparison table, and updated various parts of the article.

Originally posted @ 2017-09-10

 

Before Ryzen

Even before Intel dropped their Tick-Tock model in 2016, they already had trouble convincing customers to adopt their latest processors because they delivered relatively minor boosts in performance over their predecessors. In the end, they resigned themselves to trying to convince users of 5 years old (or older) PCs to upgrade to the latest Intel processors.

It was not really a matter of technical or manufacturing problems. It was really an almost complete lack of competition. Sure, AMD had a presence in the market with their 7th Generation APUs but no serious gamer or desktop user used them, and Intel locked up almost all of the mobile processor market.

That’s why we have been stuck with (mostly) dual-core processors in laptops, and quad-core processors in desktops. That was, until AMD introduced the Ryzen 7, Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 family of processors.

 

The Ryzen Effect

As our tests and review have shown, the AMD Ryzen processors are still slightly slower per clock than the Intel Core processors. However, AMD more than made up for that small deficit by doubling the number of physical or virtual cores, and adding a large L3 cache.

Finally, a paradigm shift in the CPU market! Now AMD has a slew of processors that deliver almost twice the performance at a lower price point. This has kicked Intel into doing what has been unthinkable for years – giving us much greater performance for our money.

 

The Intel Coffee Lake Processors

For years, Intel have relied on relatively minor improvements in their processor microarchitecture and process technologies to deliver what they called “double digit improvements in performance“. That’s PR-speak for performance improvements that are too small to boast.

That changed with the Coffee Lake processors that Intel announced on 25 September 2017. Intel finally increased the number of cores in their 8th Gen Intel Core desktop processors. Basically…

Intel Core i7 : 4 core, 8 threads -> 6 cores, 12 threads

Intel Core i5 : 4 core, 4 threads -> 6 cores, 6 threads

Intel Core i3 : 2 core, 4 threads -> 4 cores, 4 threads

How does that compare against the Ryzen 7, Ryzen 5 and Ryzen 3 processors? Here’s a table that compares their key features!

Processor Families Cores Threads L1 Cache L2 Cache L3 Cache Memory
8th Gen Intel Core i7 6 12 384 KB 1.5 MB 12 MB DDR4-2666
AMD Ryzen 7 8 16 768 KB 4 MB 16 MB DDR4-2666
8th Gen Intel Core i5 6 6 384 KB 1.5 MB 9 MB DDR4-2666
AMD Ryzen 5 (6 Cores) 6 12 576 KB 3 MB 16 MB DDR4-2666
AMD Ryzen 5 (4 Cores) 4 8 384 KB 2 MB 16 MB DDR4-2666
8th Gen Intel Core i3 4 4 256 KB 1 MB 6/8 MB DDR4-2400
AMD Ryzen 3 4 4 768 KB 2 MB 8 MB DDR4-2666

Read The 8th Generation Intel Core Tech Report and Everything You Need To Know About Intel Coffee Lake!

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Much Better Value For Money!

Best of all, Intel is not going to charge a fortune for the extra cores. In fact, they are only going to charge you a small premium for the K-grade Core i7 and Core i5 models. The other Coffee Lake processors will be priced at the same price points as their predecessors.

Intel Core i7 K-grade models : +$20 premium (gen on gen)

Intel Core i5 K-grade models : +$15 premium (gen on gen)

Intel Core i3 K-grade models : PRICE PARITY!

All other Core i7, i5 and i3 models : PRICE PARITY!

So even if you are a die-hard Intel fan, you should thank AMD for forcing Intel to up their game. More cores at the same price point? Unbelievable years ago, but it’s happening right now.

 

Reading Suggestions

[adrotate group=”2″]

Go Back To > Articles | Home

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The 8th Gen Intel Core Desktop CPU Tech Report

Intel fans have been waiting A LONG TIME for the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop CPUs, codenamed Coffee Lake. Thanks to the Ryzen Effect, they promise a new level of performance unseen in recent years from Intel. For the first time ever, the Core i7, Core i5 and Core i3 CPUs will come with two additional cores!

Earlier, we shared with you leaked details of the Coffee Lake CPUs – price, specifications and availability. Now, we will share with you the Intel presentation on the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop CPUs.

 

Note On Availability

In our earlier article on the Intel Coffee Lake CPUs, we revealed that Intel would be launching them on 5 October 2017. In fact, tech publications privy to this presentation had to sign an NDA not to reveal this until 5 October 2017.

However, after Intel gave this presentation on 22 September 2017, it got leaked. So Intel basically cancelled their NDA, and here we are with this tech report.

Please note that the Coffee Lake CPUs are still only going to hit the market on 5 October 2017. It’s just the announcement that got brought up to 25 September 2017.

 

The 8th Gen Intel Core Desktop CPU

The processors being announced today are the premium desktop models. Intel had earlier released the 8th Gen Intel Core mobile CPUs in August. That was, confusingly, based on the previous-generation “Kaby Lake Refresh” microarchitecture.

As we revealed in our Intel Coffee Lake article, the new 8th Gen Intel Core desktop processors now have up to 6 processor cores that can handle up to 12 simultaneous threads. You can also see from this slide that they definitely planned to launch these processors on 5 October 2017.

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Basically – MORE Cores!

What everyone is excited about is the fact that Intel is introducing two extra cores into each Coffee Lake CPU!

Intel Core i7 : 4 cores, 8 threads -> 6 cores, 12 threads

Intel Core i5 : 4 cores, 4 threads -> 6 cores, 6 threads

Intel Core i3 : 2 cores, 4 threads -> 4 cores, 4 threads

In addition to more cores, the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop processors have larger caches.

 

A New Chipset Too

This is no secret either – the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop processors will run on the new Intel 300 series chipset, the first of which is the Intel Z370 chipset.

Next Page > Gaming & Overclocking Performance, Specifications, Price & Availability

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

Better Gaming Performance

Intel promises that the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop CPUs will deliver significantly better performance. They paired the Core i7-8700K with the NVIDIA GeForce GTX 1080 Ti, and noted the following improvements over the Core i7-7700K :

  • 25% higher frame rate in Gears of War 4
  • 45% better performance while gaming + streaming + recording in PlayerUnknown’s Battleground
  • 32% faster 4K video editing in Adobe Premier Pro

There’s the inevitable comparison with older processors to provide a greater performance contrast. Interestingly, Intel only compared against a 3-year CPU (the Intel Core i7-4790K) this time, instead of a 5-year old CPU as they did in past years.

 

Better Overclocking

Unlike AMD whose Ryzen processors are all unlocked, Intel is still restricting the multiplier lock for all 8th Gen Intel Core desktop processors, except for their K-grade processors. But they promise better overclocking features like :

  • Per Core Overclocking
  • An increase in Memory Ratio up to 8,400 MT/s
  • Real-time memory latency control
  • Extended PLL trim controls
  • Enhanced package power delivery
  • Performance Tuning Protection Plan (optional)

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

8th Gen Intel Core Desktop CPU Specifications

Here is a table comparing the key specifications of the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop processors :

SpecificationsCore i7-8700KCore i7-8700Core i5-8600KCore i5-8400Core i3-8350KCore i3-8300Core i3-8100
Cores6666444
Threads121266444
Base Clock3.7 GHz3.2 GHz3.5 GHz2.8 GHz4.0 GHz4.0 GHz3.6 GHz
Boost Clock4.7 GHz4.6 GHz4.4 GHz3.9 GHzNoneNoneNone
L1 Cache384 KB384 KB384 KB384 KB256 KB256 KB256 KB
L2 Cache1.5 MB1.5 MB1.5 MB1.5 MB1 MB1 MB1 MB
L3 Cache12 MB12 MB9 MB9 MB8 MB6 MB6 MB
Multiplier UnlockedYesNoYesNoYesNoNo
TDP95 W65 W95 W65 W91 W65 W65 W

 

8th Gen Intel Core Price & Availability

As we revealed in our Intel Coffee Lake article earlier, Intel is only hiking the price of their Core i7 K-grade CPUs by $20 and their Core i5 K-grade CPUs by $15. All other 8th Gen Intel Core desktop CPU SKUs will maintain price parity with the 7th Gen models they replace.

8th Gen Intel Core 7th Gen Intel Core Difference
Model Launch Price Model Launch Price
Core i7-8700K $359 Core i7-7700K $339 +$20
Core i7-8700 $303 Core i7-7700 $303
Core i5-8600K $257 Core i5-7600K $242 +$15
Core i5-8400 $182 Core i5-7400 $182
Core i3-8350K $168 Core i3-7350K $168
Core i3-8100 $117 Core i3-7100 $117

While Intel announced the details of the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop CPUs on 25 September, they are only making these processors available on 5 October 2017, as originally planned.

Next Page > Summary & Full Set Of Presentation Slides

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The 8th Gen Intel Core Desktop CPUs Summarised

Basically, the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop CPUs are pretty much the 7th Gen Intel Core desktop CPUs with two additional cores, and larger caches. There are no major architectural changes, just some tweaks here and there.

That said, the additional cores and larger caches alone will give the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop CPUs a BIG boost in performance. That’s what got so many people hyped about it.

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

The Complete 8th Gen Intel Core Presentation Slides

Here is the complete set of presentation slides for the 8th Gen Intel Core desktop CPUs for your perusal :

Go Back To > First PageArticles | Home

[adrotate group=”1″]

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!

The Intel Compute Card, X-Series & Core i9 CPUs & More @ Computex 2017

The second major event at Computex Taipei 2017 was the Intel Computex 2017 keynote. Ostensibly it was about IOT, but Gregory Bryant, delivered far more than that in his keynote presentation. It was a smorgasbord of new Intel products from the Intel Compute Card to the new Intel X-Series and Intel Core i9 processors.

 

The Intel Compute Card, X-Series & Core i9 CPUs & More!

For almost an hour, Gregory Bryant, VP & GM of the Intel Client Computing Group, paraded the latest products from Intel. He started with new server products like the Intel Xeon Platinum processors and low-power SSDs, before demonstrating the power of an IOT-enabled City Kiosk prototype.

Then he showed off the Intel Compute Card, that Intel believes will drive the future of modular computing. ASUS Chairman Jonney Shih even came on stage to show off their secret ASUS Kukuna prototype which boasts the Intel LTE “Always Connected” technology. There was also a demo of the Intel Optane Memory.

Finally, Gregory announced the Intel X-Series processors, as well as the Intel Core i9 processors. He also revealed that the upcoming 8th Generation Intel Core processors will deliver more than 30% better performance than the 7th Generation Intel Core processors.

[adrotate banner=”5″]

 

Our Earlier Coverage On The Keynote

Gregory Bryant from Intel announces the Intel Xeon Platinum family of scalable server processors.

Intel also announced the Low Power Series of their 2nd Gen 3D NAND SSD drives.

Introducing the Intel Compute Card!

The Intel Compute Card is a modular computer that will fit into a variety of devices. You can pull it out of one device and slot it into another.

ASUS Chairman Jonney Shih shows off their secret project Kukuna.

Intel also showed off their new Optane technology.

Intel officially announces the Intel Core-X Series Processor Family with up to 18 cores per CPU!

Intel also announced the Intel Core i9 processors, with X-Series and Extreme editions.

[adrotate banner=”5″]

 

Support Tech ARP!

If you like our work, you can help support our work by visiting our sponsors, participating in the Tech ARP Forums, or even donating to our fund. Any help you can render is greatly appreciated!