Intel® Core™ I9-9900K Processor

Intel® Core™ I9-9900K Processor

Experience high-end desktop performance with the Intel Core i9-9900K processor. As a flagship CPU from Intel’s 9th Generation (Coffee Lake), this processor features 8 cores and 16 threads, delivering impressive power for demanding games, content creation, and intensive multitasking. With a base frequency of 3.60 GHz and a maximum turbo boost frequency reaching up to 5.00 GHz, the i9-9900K provided top-tier performance for its time on the LGA1151 platform.

Discover High-Frequency Performance: Intel Core i9-9900K

The Intel Core i9-9900K was built on the 14nm lithography process and designed to deliver exceptional speed. Its 8 cores and 16 threads, enabled by Intel® Hyper-Threading Technology, handle parallel tasks efficiently. The processor achieves a remarkable 5.00 GHz Max Turbo Frequency thanks to Intel® Turbo Boost Technology 2.0, providing significant speed bursts for demanding applications and games. Furthermore, its unlocked multiplier (indicated by the ‘K’ suffix) allows enthusiasts to pursue overclocking for even greater performance when paired with a capable Z-series motherboard.

This processor supports dual-channel DDR4-2666 memory (up to 128GB) and includes integrated Intel® UHD Graphics 630, capable of driving multiple 4K displays. It provides 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes directly from the CPU for graphics cards and other high-speed peripherals. Designed for the FCLGA1151 socket, it requires a compatible motherboard (like Z390 or Z370 chipsets for overclocking). Note that this processor has a 95W TDP and the boxed version does not include a cooler, requiring a separate purchase. Explore compatible LGA1151 motherboards or suitable CPU coolers. Find archived details on the official Intel Core i9-9900K product page.

Specifications

• Model: Intel® Core™ i9-9900K Processor
• Generation: 9th Gen (Coffee Lake)
• Cores / Threads: 8 / 16
• Base Frequency: 3.60 GHz
• Max Turbo Frequency: 5.00 GHz
• Cache: 16 MB Intel® Smart Cache
• TDP: 95 W
• Lithography: 14 nm
• Socket: FCLGA1151
• Max Memory Size: 128 GB
• Memory Types: DDR4-2666 (Dual Channel)
• Integrated Graphics: Intel® UHD Graphics 630
• Max PCIe Lanes: 16 (Revision 3.0)
• Status: Discontinued

Intel Core i9-9900K: Q&A

Who should buy this?

While discontinued, the Intel Core i9-9900K might still be relevant for users upgrading existing LGA1151 systems (on compatible 300-series chipsets) seeking the highest performance available for that platform, or for those finding it at a compelling price on the used market for specific gaming or productivity builds from its era.

Key Reasons to Choose

At its peak, the i9-9900K was chosen for its high 8-core/16-thread count, impressive 5.0 GHz single-core boost clock speed, and unlocked multiplier (‘K’ suffix) enabling overclocking, which provided top-tier gaming and multitasking performance for the 9th generation platform.

What are the Pros?

• High single-core boost clock (up to 5.0 GHz).
• 8 cores and 16 threads for strong multitasking performance (for its generation).
• Unlocked multiplier (‘K’) allows for overclocking on Z-series motherboards.
• Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630 for basic display output.
• Was a flagship processor offering top performance for the LGA1151 platform.

What are the Cons?

• Discontinued product, superseded by many newer generations.
• Based on older 14nm architecture.
• Limited to PCIe 3.0 lanes directly from the CPU.
• Requires a separate CPU cooler (not included).
• LGA1151 socket offers no upgrade path to newer CPU generations.
• Can run hot, especially when overclocked, requiring robust cooling.
• Uses DDR4 memory, not the newer DDR5 standard.

Intel Core i9-9900K: Verdict

The Intel Core i9-9900K was a landmark processor, representing the pinnacle of Intel’s 9th Generation desktop lineup. With 8 cores, 16 threads, and the ability to boost up to 5.0 GHz, it delivered exceptional gaming and productivity performance for its time. While now discontinued and surpassed by newer architectures offering better efficiency and features like PCIe 4.0/5.0, the i9-9900K remains a potent CPU for specific LGA1151 builds, particularly for users looking to maximize the potential of an existing compatible motherboard or finding it at a significant discount.