The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a special edition processor, a flagship CPU designed to push the boundaries of performance. It's a 9th Gen Intel Core i9 processor, featuring a factory overclocked 5 GHz base clock speed and a boost clock speed of 5.0 GHz on all 8 cores, making it the fastest Intel CPU ever. But is this processor truly the "King of the Hill" in gaming and content creation?
Let's delve into this review, exploring the core features of the Intel Core i9-9900KS, its performance in various benchmarks, and how it compares to other flagship processors like the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X and Ryzen 9 3950X. We'll also discuss its price and availability, helping you determine if this processor is a worthwhile investment for your needs.
Key Features of the Intel Core i9-9900KS
The Intel Core i9-9900KS is built on the Coffee Lake architecture, the same as its predecessor, the Intel Core i9-9900K. However, the 9900KS offers a significant overclock out of the box, achieving a 5 GHz base clock speed. This means it runs faster than the 9900K from the moment it's installed.
-
Eight Cores and Sixteen Threads: The processor features 8 cores with 16 threads, offering a balance of single-core performance for demanding applications and multi-core power for multitasking and content creation.
-
5.0 GHz Base Clock: The 9900KS boasts a factory overclocked 5 GHz base clock speed, giving it a noticeable performance edge compared to its predecessor.
-
5.0 GHz Boost Clock: The 9900KS can achieve a boost clock speed of 5.0 GHz on all 8 cores, thanks to Intel's Thermal Velocity Boost Technology.
-
16 MB Intel Smart Cache: The 9900KS features a 16 MB Intel Smart Cache, a high-capacity cache designed to improve performance by storing frequently used data.
-
Integrated Intel UHD Graphics 630: While the 9900KS is a desktop processor, it includes integrated graphics for basic display capabilities and tasks like web browsing and video playback.
-
Support for DDR4-2666: The 9900KS supports DDR4-2666 memory, which is more than enough for most users.
-
TDP of 127W: The 9900KS has a higher TDP (Thermal Design Power) compared to other 9th Gen Intel CPUs, requiring a robust cooling solution.
Benchmarking the Intel Core i9-9900KS
We tested the Intel Core i9-9900KS on a range of benchmarks to assess its performance and compare it against other top-tier CPUs like the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X and Ryzen 9 3950X.
Gaming Performance:
-
Games: We tested the 9900KS in popular games like "Grand Theft Auto V," "Red Dead Redemption 2," "Forza Horizon 4," "Call of Duty: Modern Warfare," and "Metro Exodus," using a high-end graphics card and 1440p resolution.
-
Performance: The 9900KS achieved excellent frame rates in most games. It delivered smooth and responsive gameplay with minimal stuttering or lag. In some titles, it outperformed the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X, while in others, the difference was minimal.
Productivity Performance:
-
Benchmarks: We used benchmarks like Cinebench R20, Geekbench 5, 7-Zip, and PCMark 10 to measure the 9900KS's performance in real-world applications like video editing, rendering, and multitasking.
-
Performance: The 9900KS excelled in these benchmarks, showcasing its powerful multi-core capabilities. It outperformed the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X in most tests, demonstrating its superior performance for demanding productivity tasks.
Overall Benchmarking:
The Intel Core i9-9900KS consistently achieved excellent performance in most benchmarks, demonstrating its prowess in gaming and content creation. However, it's important to note that the performance advantage over AMD's Ryzen processors, particularly the Ryzen 9 3950X, is less pronounced in certain scenarios. AMD's Ryzen 9 3950X offers greater multi-core performance for specific workloads and is available at a more affordable price.
Intel Core i9-9900KS: A Worthy Investment?
The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a premium processor aimed at enthusiasts and gamers who demand the highest performance levels. Its 5 GHz base clock and boost clock speeds deliver a significant performance boost over its predecessor, the i9-9900K, especially in gaming. However, its price reflects its top-tier positioning.
Pros:
- Exceptional single-core performance, providing a competitive advantage in gaming.
- Strong multi-core performance, making it ideal for demanding productivity tasks.
- Factory overclocked, ensuring a faster experience out of the box.
- Superior performance to its predecessor, the i9-9900K.
Cons:
- High price tag compared to other flagship CPUs.
- Higher power consumption compared to other processors.
- Limited availability due to its special edition status.
Alternatives:
- AMD Ryzen 9 3900X: Offers a slightly better price-to-performance ratio and is a more budget-friendly option for gamers and content creators.
- AMD Ryzen 9 3950X: Outperforms the 9900KS in some multi-core workloads and offers a better price-to-performance ratio.
- Intel Core i9-10900K: While not a special edition like the 9900KS, it offers a similar performance level at a more affordable price.
Final Verdict:
The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a powerful CPU that excels in gaming and productivity tasks. Its 5 GHz base clock and boost clock speeds are impressive and deliver noticeable performance gains over other processors. However, its high price tag and limited availability may make it a less attractive option for budget-conscious users. If you're looking for the fastest Intel CPU available and willing to pay a premium for it, the 9900KS is a strong choice. However, if you're looking for a more affordable option with comparable performance, AMD's Ryzen 9 3900X or 3950X might be better alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Intel Core i9-9900KS a good choice for gaming?
Yes, the 9900KS is an excellent choice for gamers who demand the highest frame rates and smoothest gameplay. Its exceptional single-core performance and high boost clock speeds provide a competitive edge in demanding games.
2. Is the Intel Core i9-9900KS worth the price?
The 9900KS is a premium processor, and its price reflects its top-tier positioning. If you're looking for the absolute fastest Intel CPU and are willing to pay a premium, the 9900KS is a worthy investment. However, if you're on a tighter budget, AMD's Ryzen processors offer comparable performance at a more affordable price.
3. How does the Intel Core i9-9900KS compare to the AMD Ryzen 9 3900X?
The 9900KS and the Ryzen 9 3900X are both excellent CPUs. The 9900KS edges out the 3900X in single-core performance, which is advantageous in gaming. However, the 3900X offers a better price-to-performance ratio and stronger multi-core performance for demanding productivity tasks.
4. What is the best motherboard for the Intel Core i9-9900KS?
The best motherboard for the 9900KS is one that supports the Z390 chipset and features a robust VRM (Voltage Regulator Module) to handle the processor's high power consumption. Look for motherboards with features like multiple PCIe 4.0 slots, high-bandwidth memory support, and robust cooling solutions.
5. What are the best cooling solutions for the Intel Core i9-9900KS?
The 9900KS has a higher TDP than other 9th Gen Intel CPUs, requiring a robust cooling solution to prevent throttling. A high-quality CPU cooler with good airflow and heat dissipation is essential for optimal performance. Consider a high-end air cooler or a liquid cooler for optimal cooling.
Conclusion
The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a top-tier processor designed for gamers and enthusiasts who demand the absolute best in performance. Its 5 GHz base clock and boost clock speeds deliver a significant performance boost over its predecessor, but its high price tag and limited availability make it a niche product. If you're willing to pay a premium for the fastest Intel CPU available, the 9900KS delivers on its promise of exceptional performance. However, if you're on a tighter budget and need a strong CPU for gaming and productivity tasks, AMD's Ryzen 9 3900X or 3950X might be more attractive alternatives.
Ultimately, the best processor for you depends on your budget, your specific needs, and the type of tasks you'll be performing.