Intel Core i9: 18-core monster chip unveiled - 31-05-2017

  • Intel’s next-generation workstation CPUs will include a new model name, called Core i9. This forms the very top end of Intel's X-series of procesors, which was previously topped by a load of different Core i7s.

    Specifically, there are five new Intel Core i9 chips, all of which feature 10 or more cores, with the top-end i9-7980XE packing a ridiculous 18 cores – the most ever for an Intel desktop part.


    There's also three new i7 chips and an i5 processor joining the new i9 chips, including the quad-core i5-7640X and i7 models in 4, 6 and 8-core variants.

    The cheaper chips will rival AMD’s top-end Ryzen processors, featuring higher clock speeds and support for more PCIe lanes – both of which are important for high-end PCs that pack powerful components, like multiple graphics cards and high-speed storage arrays.


    intel core x

    The most expensive new additions are (on paper, at least) in a class of their own, with the Core i9-7980XE priced at $1,999 (about £1,558). It's the first Intel consumer processor that comes with a teraflop of computing power. Alongside the 7980XE, there are 10, 12, 14 and 16-core i9 alternatives, with the 10 core i9-7900X set to go on sale for $999 (about £778).

    All Intel's new i9 chips come with 3.3GHz base clock speeds, and are capable of reaching up to 4.3GHz dual-core speeds with Turbo Boost 2.0, pushing that to 4.5GHz with Turbo Boost 3.0.

    Stay tuned for more from Computex 2017 in Taipei as TrustedReviews will be providing updates live from the event.