The Intel Core i9 10900K is a high-end desktop processor that belongs to Intel’s 10th generation Comet Lake-S series. It was released in Q2 2020 and is the successor to the Intel Core i9 9900K, which was one of the most popular processors for gaming and content creation enthusiasts. The i9 10900K is built on a 14nm manufacturing process and features a total of ten cores and twenty threads, making it one of the most powerful CPUs in the market.
Are you planning to upgrade your PC or build a new one for high-end gaming, content creation, or professional tasks? Then you might have come across the Intel Core i9 10900K processor. This 10th generation flagship CPU from Intel boasts impressive specs and features that make it one of the most powerful and sought-after processors in the market.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on the Intel Core i9 10900K processor, including its specifications, performance benchmarks, overclocking potential, compatibility, and more.
Contents
- What is the Intel Core i9 10900K Processor?
- Intel Core i9 10900K: Specifications and Features
- Intel Core i9 10900K Performance
- Intel Core i9 10900K Benchmarks
- Overclocking Potential
- Compatibility and Motherboard Support
- Pricing and Value for Money
- Alternatives to Intel Core i9 10900K
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the Intel Core i9 10900K?
- What is the clock speed of the Intel Core i9 10900K?
- What is the TDP of the Intel Core i9 10900K?
- Does the Intel Core i9 10900K support hyper-threading?
- What is the cache size of the Intel Core i9 10900K?
- Does the Intel Core i9 10900K have integrated graphics?
- What is the price of the Intel Core i9 10900K?
- What is the recommended RAM for the Intel Core i9 10900K?
- What is the maximum number of PCIe lanes supported by the Intel Core i9 10900K?
- What is the socket type for the Intel Core i9 10900K?
- Conclusion
What is the Intel Core i9 10900K Processor?
The Intel Core i9-10900K is a desktop processor from Intel’s 10th generation of CPUs, also known as “Comet Lake-S.” It was released in May 2020 and is designed for high-end gaming and workstation use. It has 10 cores and 20 threads, a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz, and a turbo boost frequency of up to 5.3 GHz. It also features Intel’s Hyper-Threading technology, which allows each physical core to handle two threads simultaneously, and has 20MB of Smart Cache. The i9-10900K uses the LGA1200 socket and is compatible with Intel 400-series chipsets. It is known for its high performance and is one of the most powerful consumer CPUs currently available.
Intel Core i9 10900K: Specifications and Features
| Specifications and Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Core and Thread Count | 10 cores, 20 threads |
| Clock Speed | Base: 3.7 GHz, Turbo Boost: Up to 5.3 GHz (single core), up to 4.9 GHz (all cores) |
| Cache Memory | 20 MB Intel Smart Cache |
| Thermal Design Power (TDP) | 125 watts |
| Integrated Graphics | Intel UHD Graphics 630 |
| Memory Support | Dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 2933 MHz |
| Chipset Compatibility | Intel 400-series chipsets |
| Hyper-Threading Technology | Yes |
| Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 | Yes |
| Intel Optane Memory Support | Yes |
| Overclocking Support | Yes |
| Socket Compatibility | LGA1200 |
| Manufacturing Process | 14nm++ |
| Release Date | May 2020 |
- Core and Thread Count: The i9 10900K has 10 cores and 20 threads. This means it can handle up to 20 simultaneous processes or threads.
- Clock Speed and Turbo Boost: The base clock speed of the i9 10900K is 3.7 GHz, but it can turbo boost up to 5.3 GHz on a single core, or up to 4.9 GHz on all cores.
- Cache Memory: The i9 10900K has 20 MB of Intel Smart Cache memory, which is divided between the 10 cores. This cache memory is used to store frequently accessed data and instructions for faster access by the CPU.
- Thermal Design Power (TDP): The TDP of the i9 10900K is 125 watts, which means it can draw up to 125 watts of power under heavy load. This is higher than some other processors, so a powerful cooling solution is recommended.
- Integrated Graphics: The i9 10900K includes Intel UHD Graphics 630, which is integrated into the CPU and can provide basic graphics performance. However, it is not designed for high-end gaming or professional graphics work, so a separate graphics card is recommended for those tasks.
Other notable features of the i9 10900K include support for Intel Optane Memory, Intel Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0, and Intel Hyper-Threading Technology. It is also compatible with Intel’s 400-series chipsets and supports dual-channel DDR4 memory up to 2933 MHz.
Intel Core i9 10900K Performance
Gaming Performance
The Intel Core i9 10900K is known for its excellent gaming performance. It has a high clock speed and a large number of cores, which allows it to handle demanding games with ease. When compared to its predecessors, the i9 9900K and i7 9700K, the i9 10900K shows significant improvements in gaming performance.
In benchmarks, the i9 10900K has been shown to provide high frame rates and smooth gameplay in even the most demanding games. It is particularly well-suited for gaming at high resolutions and with high graphics settings, as its powerful processing capabilities can handle the increased workload.
One thing to note is that while the i9 10900K has integrated graphics, it is not recommended for serious gaming or professional graphics work. A separate graphics card is necessary for optimal gaming performance. Additionally, to get the most out of the i9 10900K’s performance, a high-end cooling solution is recommended to prevent thermal throttling under heavy loads.
Content Creation Performance
In addition to its excellent gaming performance, the Intel Core i9 10900K is also known for its strong content creation performance. The i9 10900K’s 10 cores and 20 threads, along with its high clock speed and large cache memory, make it well-suited for tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and other CPU-intensive workloads.
In benchmarks, the i9 10900K has been shown to provide fast render times and smooth editing performance in programs such as Adobe Premiere Pro, Blender, and Autodesk 3ds Max. It also performs well in multi-threaded workloads, thanks to its Hyper-Threading technology.
One thing to note is that while the i9 10900K is a powerful CPU, it may not always be the best choice for content creation workloads. Other CPUs, such as the AMD Ryzen 9 5900X, offer similar or better performance at a lower cost. The choice of CPU ultimately depends on the specific workload and budget.
The Intel Core i9 10900K is a strong choice for content creators who need a high-performance CPU that can handle demanding workloads.
Multitasking Performance
The Intel Core i9 10900K is also well-suited for multitasking performance. With its 10 cores and 20 threads, the i9 10900K can handle multiple applications and processes simultaneously, without slowing down or experiencing lag.
In benchmarks, the i9 10900K has been shown to perform well in multi-tasking scenarios, such as running multiple applications simultaneously or streaming while gaming. Its high clock speed and large cache memory also help ensure smooth performance.
Additionally, the i9 10900K supports Intel Hyper-Threading technology, which allows each physical core to handle two threads. This means the i9 10900K can handle up to 20 threads simultaneously, providing even better multitasking performance.
The Intel Core i9 10900K is a great choice for users who need a CPU that can handle demanding multitasking scenarios, such as content creators who need to run multiple applications at once or gamers who want to stream their gameplay while running other programs.
Intel Core i9 10900K Benchmarks
| Benchmark | Result |
|---|---|
| Cinebench R20 (single-core) | 547 |
| Cinebench R20 (multi-core) | 5348 |
| Geekbench 5 (single-core) | 1398 |
| Geekbench 5 (multi-core) | 11392 |
| Adobe Premiere Pro (exporting 4K video) | 9 minutes, 39 seconds |
| Blender (rendering BMW benchmark) | 1 minute, 10 seconds |
| Handbrake (transcoding 4K video to 1080p) | 6 minutes, 48 seconds |
| 3DMark Time Spy (CPU score) | 12000 |
| Shadow of the Tomb Raider (1080p, highest graphics settings) | 145 fps |
| Metro Exodus (1080p, highest graphics settings) | 117 fps |
It’s important to note that benchmark results can vary depending on the specific hardware and software configurations used. These results are intended to provide a general idea of the i9 10900K’s performance across a range of workloads.
In general, the benchmark results show that the i9 10900K is a high-performance CPU that can handle demanding workloads with ease. It performs well in both single-core and multi-core benchmarks, indicating that it can handle both single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads effectively. It also provides strong gaming performance, with high frame rates in demanding games. Overall, the i9 10900K is a great choice for users who need a high-performance CPU for demanding workloads such as gaming, content creation, and multitasking.
Overclocking Potential
The Intel Core i9 10900K has a reputation for having excellent overclocking potential. Overclocking is the process of increasing the CPU’s clock speed beyond its default settings, which can provide a significant boost in performance.
The i9 10900K is unlocked, which means that it can be overclocked by adjusting the CPU multiplier and voltage settings in the BIOS. With adequate cooling and a capable motherboard, the i9 10900K can typically achieve clock speeds of 5.0 GHz or higher on all cores.
In benchmarks, overclocked i9 10900K CPUs have been shown to provide significant performance gains in both gaming and content creation workloads. However, overclocking can also increase power consumption and heat output, so adequate cooling is essential to prevent thermal throttling and ensure stability.
It’s important to note that overclocking can void the CPU’s warranty and can potentially damage the CPU if done incorrectly. Overclocking should only be attempted by experienced users who understand the risks involved and are willing to take the necessary precautions.
The Intel Core i9 10900K has excellent overclocking potential, which can provide a significant boost in performance for users who are willing to invest in adequate cooling and take the necessary precautions.
Compatibility and Motherboard Support
The Intel Core i9 10900K is compatible with the LGA 1200 socket, which means that it requires a motherboard with an LGA 1200 socket in order to function. The i9 10900K is designed to work with motherboards that use the Intel Z490 chipset, which is currently the only chipset that supports LGA 1200 CPUs.
When selecting a motherboard for the i9 10900K, it’s important to choose a board that is capable of handling the CPU’s high power consumption and heat output, especially if you plan to overclock. Look for motherboards that have robust power delivery systems, adequate cooling, and high-quality components.
Some popular motherboard options for the i9 10900K include the ASUS ROG Maximus XII Hero, the MSI MPG Z490 Gaming Edge WiFi, and the Gigabyte Z490 AORUS Ultra. These motherboards have been well-reviewed and are known for their high-quality components and strong performance.
It’s important to note that when upgrading to an i9 10900K, you may also need to upgrade your system’s RAM and cooling system in order to fully utilize the CPU’s capabilities. The i9 10900K supports DDR4 RAM up to 2933 MHz, and may benefit from high-speed RAM in some workloads. Additionally, adequate cooling is essential to prevent thermal throttling and ensure stable performance, especially when overclocking.
The i9 10900K is a high-performance CPU that requires a compatible motherboard with robust power delivery and adequate cooling in order to fully utilize its capabilities.
Pricing and Value for Money
The Intel Core i9 10900K is a high-end desktop CPU, and as such, it comes with a premium price tag. As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, the i9 10900K was priced at around $499 USD, which makes it one of the most expensive desktop CPUs on the market.
When considering the value for money of the i9 10900K, it’s important to weigh its performance capabilities against its cost. In terms of raw performance, the i9 10900K is a top-performing CPU that can handle demanding workloads with ease. It provides strong gaming performance, excellent content creation performance, and can handle multitasking with ease.
However, whether the i9 10900K represents good value for money ultimately depends on your specific use case and budget. For users who require the highest levels of performance for demanding workloads, the i9 10900K may represent good value for money, especially when compared to other high-end desktop CPUs.
On the other hand, for users who do not require the highest levels of performance, the i9 10900K may be overkill, and a lower-cost CPU may be a better choice. Additionally, the cost of building a system around the i9 10900K can quickly add up, especially when factoring in the cost of a compatible motherboard, high-speed RAM, and adequate cooling.
The i9 10900K is a high-performance CPU that comes with a premium price tag. Its value for money ultimately depends on your specific use case and budget. For users who require the highest levels of performance, the i9 10900K may represent good value for money, but for users who do not require such high levels of performance, a lower-cost CPU may be a better choice.
Alternatives to Intel Core i9 10900K
There are several alternatives to the Intel Core i9 10900K that may be worth considering depending on your specific use case and budget. Here are a few examples:
- AMD Ryzen 9 5900X: The Ryzen 9 5900X is AMD’s top-performing desktop CPU and is known for its excellent performance in both gaming and content creation workloads. It has 12 cores and 24 threads, a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.8 GHz. It’s priced similarly to the i9 10900K but provides better performance in most workloads.
- Intel Core i9 11900K: The i9 11900K is Intel’s latest high-end desktop CPU and is known for its strong gaming performance. It has 8 cores and 16 threads, a base clock speed of 3.5 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 5.3 GHz. It’s priced similarly to the i9 10900K but provides better single-threaded performance.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5800X: The Ryzen 7 5800X is a more affordable alternative to the i9 10900K that provides excellent performance in gaming and content creation workloads. It has 8 cores and 16 threads, a base clock speed of 3.8 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 4.7 GHz. It’s priced lower than the i9 10900K but provides similar performance in most workloads.
- Intel Core i7 11700K: The i7 11700K is a more affordable alternative to the i9 10900K that provides strong performance in gaming and content creation workloads. It has 8 cores and 16 threads, a base clock speed of 3.6 GHz, and a boost clock speed of 5.0 GHz. It’s priced lower than the i9 10900K but provides similar performance in most workloads.
Ultimately, the best alternative to the i9 10900K depends on your specific use case and budget. If you’re primarily focused on gaming, the i9 11900K may be a good choice, while if you’re focused on content creation, the Ryzen 9 5900X may be a better choice. If you’re looking for a more affordable alternative, the Ryzen 7 5800X or i7 11700K may be worth considering.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Intel Core i9 10900K?
The Intel Core i9 10900K is a high-end desktop processor that was released in 2020. It has 10 cores and 20 threads and is known for its strong gaming and content creation performance.
What is the clock speed of the Intel Core i9 10900K?
The base clock speed of the Intel Core i9 10900K is 3.7 GHz, and it has a boost clock speed of up to 5.3 GHz.
What is the TDP of the Intel Core i9 10900K?
The TDP (thermal design power) of the Intel Core i9 10900K is 125 watts.
Does the Intel Core i9 10900K support hyper-threading?
Yes, the Intel Core i9 10900K supports hyper-threading, which allows each core to handle two threads simultaneously.
What is the cache size of the Intel Core i9 10900K?
The Intel Core i9 10900K has a total cache size of 20MB, with 10MB of L3 cache and 1.25MB of L2 cache per core.
Does the Intel Core i9 10900K have integrated graphics?
Yes, the Intel Core i9 10900K has integrated graphics in the form of Intel UHD Graphics 630.
What is the price of the Intel Core i9 10900K?
As of my knowledge cutoff date of September 2021, the Intel Core i9 10900K was priced at around $499 USD.
What is the recommended RAM for the Intel Core i9 10900K?
The Intel Core i9 10900K supports DDR4 RAM, and the recommended speed is 3200 MHz.
What is the maximum number of PCIe lanes supported by the Intel Core i9 10900K?
The Intel Core i9 10900K supports up to 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes.
What is the socket type for the Intel Core i9 10900K?
The Intel Core i9 10900K uses the LGA 1200 socket type, which is compatible with select 400 and 500 series motherboards.
Conclusion
The Intel Core i9 10900K is a high-end desktop processor with 10 cores and 20 threads. It has a base clock speed of 3.7 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 5.3 GHz. It has a TDP of 125 watts and supports hyper-threading. It also has integrated graphics in the form of Intel UHD Graphics 630.
The processor performs well in gaming, content creation, and multitasking applications. It has a high overclocking potential, and it is compatible with select 400 and 500 series motherboards.
The processor’s pricing is on the higher side, and it also requires a compatible motherboard and fast RAM for optimal performance.
Final recommendation
The Intel Core i9 10900K is a powerful processor that is suitable for high-end gaming and content creation applications. It is a good choice for users who require high processing power and are willing to invest in a premium processor. However, for users who do not require such high performance, there are other more affordable alternatives available.
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