Intel announces new 14th Gen Core series desktop processors

Intel has announced its new 14th generation of Core-series desktop processors based on the refreshed Raptor Lake architecture. These include the Core i9-14900K/KF, the Core i7-14700K/KF, and the Core i5-14600K/KF.

The new chips can essentially be considered overclocked versions of their previous generation models, with some new software and connectivity features. Only the i7 model has some changes to its core layout.

But first, let's start from the top. The 14900K (and the non-iGPU 14900KF variant) feature modest improvements to the clock speed, but just enough for Intel to claim the the crown of the first CPU to hit 6.0GHz for the second time. The company already made this claim with the 13900KS but that chip was sold in small numbers whereas the 14900K is said to be the first chip to hit 6.0GHz that will be sold at volume. Aside from that, there aren't many changes compared to the 13900K.

The 14700K shifts things around a bit and adds a few extra E-cores compared to its predecessor, taking the number from 8+8 to 8+12. The clock speeds have also gone up, as has the amount of cache.

Then finally there is the 14600K, which is back to having just modest increases to clock speeds to justify its existence.

The models with an integrated GPU feature the same UHD Graphics 770 as the previous generation models.

New for this generation is the Intel Application Optimization, which is designed to improve application threading and thread scheduling on the operating system to better take advantage of the hybrid architecture of these chips. Intel showed up to 16% improvement in select titles with the new feature but also admitted it won't benefit all games.

Intel also showcased the new Intel XTU software, which will now feature AI assisted overclocking for the new chips. Intel also seems to have beefed up its memory controller, and now claims support for over 8000 MHz XMP kits.

There is also enhancement on the connectivity front. The new 14th gen chips will feature integrated support for Wi-Fi 6/6E and Bluetooth 5.3, as well as discrete support for Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4. There is also support for the upcoming Thunderbolt 5, which doubles the Thunderbolt bandwidth to 40Gbps.

Finally, the new 14th gen chips will be compatible with existing 600 and 700 series chipset motherboards with the LGA 1700 socket, meaning any motherboard that supports Intel 12th gen and 13th gen will also work with 14th gen.

The new Intel chips will be available at the same prices as previous generation parts, starting October 17.