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Intel Core i9 9900KS Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£310
  • Avg. price in US: ~$420
  • PassMark benchmark result: 19390
  • N. of physical cores: 8
  • CPU boost clock speed: 5.0 GHz

Intel Core i9 9900KS review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.5

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

5.2

Technical Score

10.0%

8.2

User score

Good
5.2

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

5.2

Performance

18.0%

5.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

2.5

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.9

Platform

1.0%

7.1

Integrated Graphics

Good
8.2

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

6.7

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(137)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Excellent
  • 5.2
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.4

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    5.1

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    7.6

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    3.3

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    3.5

    N. of physical cores

  • 4.1
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    4.2

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    3.5

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    5.2

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    3.3

    L3 cache

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a high-performance, special edition desktop processor built on the 14nm++ Coffee Lake Refresh architecture. It features 8 cores and 16 threads with a 4.0 GHz base clock and a standout 5.0 GHz all-core turbo frequency, delivering top-tier performance for 1080p gaming and single-core tasks right out of the box. Key advantages include its selectively binned silicon for better frequency efficiency, compatibility with existing Z390 motherboards, and an unlocked multiplier for enthusiast overclocking. However, it carries a higher 127W TDP that demands substantial liquid cooling, lacks a bundled cooler, and came with a reduced one-year warranty compared to standard models.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i9 9900KS

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.

When it matters: When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

60.0%

5.2

Performance

18.0%

5.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

5.8

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

2.5

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.9

Platform

1.0%

7.1

Integrated Graphics

5.2
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a technical score of 5.21 points, which is higher than that of 50.2% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.

When it matters: When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.

Score components:

70.0%

8.8

User reviews

30.0%

6.7

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
(137)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

8.2
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a user score of 8.16 points, which is higher than that of 84.4% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters: When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
6.7
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a popularity of 6.7 points, which is higher than 84.4% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

5.5

Overall score

40.0%

8.9

Price

6.5
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.5 points, which is higher than 53% of products in this category.
Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel
Processor type
What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.
When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

desktop
Intel Core i9 9900KS belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.
When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

LGA1151
Intel Core i9 9900KS uses the LGA1151 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 60.1% of processors and equal to that of 9.7% of processors.
Chipset
What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.
When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

Z390, Z370, Q370, H370, B365, H310
Intel Core i9 9900KS supports Z390, Z370, Q370, H370, B365, H310 chipsets, which is broader compatibility than 57% of processors.
CPU architecture
What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.
When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

x86-64
Intel Core i9 9900KS uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
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N. of physical cores
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

8
Intel Core i9 9900KS has 8 CPU cores, which is more than 63.4% of processors and equal to 13.6% of processors.
CPU threads
What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

16
Intel Core i9 9900KS offers 16 CPU threads, which is more than 71.1% of processors and equal to 13.9% of processors.
Threads per core
What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.
When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

2
Intel Core i9 9900KS offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

5.0 GHz
Intel Core i9 9900KS reaches a boost clock of 5.0 GHz which is higher than that of 80.3% of processors and equal to that of 5.7% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.
When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

8 x 4.0 GHz
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a base clock of 8x4.0 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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Semiconductor size
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

14 nm
Intel Core i9 9900KS uses a 14 nm process node, which is older than that of 50.8% of processors and equal to that of 33.7% of processors.
Foundry
What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.
When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel 14 nm
Intel Core i9 9900KS is built on the Intel 14 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 55.2% of processors and equal to that of 29.3% of processors.
L3 cache
What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.
When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

16 MB
Intel Core i9 9900KS has an L3 cache of 16 MB which is larger than that of 64.2% of processors and equal to that of 12.7% of processors.
L2 cache
What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.
When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

2 MB
Intel Core i9 9900KS has an L2 cache of 2 MB which is smaller than that of 51.3% of processors and equal to that of 11.1% of processors.
L1 cache
What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.
When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

512 KB
Intel Core i9 9900KS has an L1 cache of 512 KB which is larger than that of 63.6% of processors and equal to that of 9.5% of processors.
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DDR memory version
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

DDR4
Intel Core i9 9900KS supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

2,666 MHz
Intel Core i9 9900KS supports memory speeds up to 2,666 MHz, which is lower than that of 55% of processors and equal to 8.1% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.
When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

DDR4-2666 MHz
Intel Core i9 9900KS supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2,666 MHz, which is lower than that of 55.3% of processors and equal to 7.4% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.
When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

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Maximum memory capacity
What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

128 GB
Intel Core i9 9900KS supports up to 128 GB of memory, which is more than 61.9% of processors and equal to 21.4% of processors.
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Integrated graphics
What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.
When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Intel Core i9 9900KS includes integrated graphics. 87.6% include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.
When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel UHD Graphics 630
Intel Core i9 9900KS uses the Intel UHD Graphics 630 integrated GPU, which is more advanced than that in 44.3% and equal to that in 8.3%.
Integrated GPU execution units
What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.
When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

24
Intel Core i9 9900KS has 24 GPU execution units, which is more than 49.2% of processors and equal to 21.6% of processors.
Integrated GPU base frequency
What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.
When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

350 MHz
Intel Core i9 9900KS has an integrated GPU clock of 350 MHz which is higher than that of 43.5% of processors and equal to that of 29.6% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.
When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

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TDP (Thermal design power)
What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

127 W
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a TDP of 127 W which is higher than that of 94.4% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

127 W
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a base power of 127 W which is higher than that of 94.4% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

159 W
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a boost power of 159 W which is higher than that of 89.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.1% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.
When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

28 seconds
Intel Core i9 9900KS has a turbo duration of 28 seconds which is longer than that of 3.8% of processors and equal to that of 85% of processors.
Configurable TDP
What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

no
Intel Core i9 9900KS does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i9 9900KS vs the average processor

  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
    When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 16.3% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.
    When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4.7 GHz

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.5.0 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 86.2% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (5,182 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    What it is: A Cinebench R20 score that reflects how well the processor handles long, heavy rendering workloads across many cores.
    When it matters: When you care about sustained multi-core performance in rendering, compiling, heavy creation work, or productivity workloads that use many threads.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >4700

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (5,182 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.5,182 vs 2,783
  • 8 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
    What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.
    When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: 16+

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.16 vs 8
  • 80.3% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (8,640 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects multi-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you want a quick picture of multi-core speed in everyday mixed workloads, multitasking, and broadly optimized software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >8500

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (8,640 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.8,640 vs 4,793
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i9 9900KS supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
    What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
    When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Intel Core i9 9900KS supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 84.1% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (19,390 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    What it is: A benchmark score that gives a broad idea of overall processor performance.
    When it matters: When you want a quick overall performance comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >19000

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (19,390 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.19,390 vs 10,532.5
  • 21.9% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,026 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,026 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.3,026 vs 2,483
  • Modern CPU socket
    Intel Core i9 9900KS uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1151 vs FP2).
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
  • 16.3% higher boost clock
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher boost clock speed than the average processor (5 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 86.2% better multi-core performance
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher multi-core performance than the average processor (5,182 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
  • 8 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has more CPU threads than the average processor (16 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 80.3% higher multi-core score
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (8,640 vs 4,793). The average processor scores 4,793 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
  • 84.1% higher PassMark score
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (19,390 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
  • 21.9% better single-core performance
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher PassMark single-core score than the average processor (3,026 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 21.7% higher single-core score
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,790 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 2 more CPU cores
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has more CPU cores than the average processor (8 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
  • 12 higher clock multiplier
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (40 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
  • 2x larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (16 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • More advanced microarchitecture
    Intel Core i9 9900KS uses a more advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Coffee Lake Refresh vs Kaby Lake).
  • 33.3% larger L1 cache
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher L1 cache than the average processor (512 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i9 9900KS supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 2x more memory capacity
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has more maximum memory capacity than the average processor (128 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.

Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i9 9900KS does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i9 9900KS supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 53.4% slower Blender rendering
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (154.7 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
  • 20% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (2 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • 9.2% lower memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (41.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 9.1% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,666 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 2.48x higher boost power
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (159 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
  • 2.82x higher base power
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher base power draw than the average processor (127 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 2.82x higher TDP
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher TDP than the average processor (127 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i9 9900KS does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 53.4% slower Blender rendering
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (154.7 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
    What it is: A Blender render result based on the BMW27 scene, used to show how quickly the processor can finish a heavy 3D rendering task.
    When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >290

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (154.7 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.154.7 vs 331.88
  • 2.48x higher boost power
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (159 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
    What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
    When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <50 W

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (159 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.159 W vs 64 W
  • 2.82x higher base power
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher base power draw than the average processor (127 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
    When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher base power draw than the average processor (127 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.127 W vs 45 W
  • 16.7% larger process node
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
    When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <10 nm

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher process node than the average processor (14 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.14 nm vs 12 nm
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.0.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • 2.82x higher TDP
    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher TDP than the average processor (127 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.
    When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: <30 W

    Intel Core i9 9900KS has a higher TDP than the average processor (127 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.127 W vs 45 W
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i9 9900KS does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
    What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.
    When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i9 9900KS does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i9 9900KS does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
    What it is: Built-in hardware support for accelerating encryption and cryptographic tasks.
    When it matters: When encryption speed or secure workloads matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Intel Core i9 9900KS does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.AES vs AES, SHA
Total
Overall
Platform
Performance
Cache & Architecture
Memory & PCIe
Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i9 9900KS and other processors

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom
amazon
4.4
137 Reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i9 9900KS?

  • Unmatched gaming performance for its era, specifically in 1080p high-refresh scenarios
  • Guaranteed 5.0 GHz all-core turbo boost out of the box due to high-quality silicon binning
  • Excellent for single-core tasks and general multitasking
  • Compatible with existing Z390 motherboards, requiring no platform upgrade for 9th-gen users
  • Slightly better power efficiency at comparable frequencies to the standard 9900K

What customers dislike about Intel Core i9 9900KS?

  • Extremely high thermal output, often requiring premium liquid cooling solutions
  • Significantly reduced warranty (1 year vs. the standard 3 years) compared to the non-special edition
  • High price point with marginal real-world gaming gains over a manually overclocked 9900K
  • Inferior multi-core productivity performance when compared to same-priced AMD Ryzen alternatives
  • Lacks a bundled thermal cooler, adding to the total system cost

Expert reviews

T
tomshardware.com
17/10/2019
Exclusive: Testing Intel's Unreleased Core i9-9900KS

The Intel Core i9-9900KS Special Edition is a highly-binned 9th-generation processor designed for maximum gaming performance, guaranteeing a 5.0 GHz boost across all eight cores. It offers superior out-of-the-box speed and efficiency compared to the standard 9900K, utilizing solder thermal interface material (STIM) for improved heat transfer. However, the chip's 127W TDP requires...Read more

L
latestintech.com
31/03/2020
Intel Core i9 9900KS Review Would you like to see a comparison table of the benchmark results from these specific reviews?

The Intel Core i9-9900KS, reviewed by LatestinTech, is a specialized Coffee Lake-S processor binned to achieve a 5.0GHz turbo frequency across all eight cores out of the box. While offering top-tier, "cherry-picked" performance for gaming and content creation on Z390/Z370 platforms, the chip requires robust cooling and is expensive compared to the standard i9-9900K. Key strengths...Read more

D
digitalfoundry.net
12/11/2019
Intel Core i9 9900KS review: the new fastest gaming CPU

Digital Foundry's review of the Intel Core i9-9900KS highlights a "special edition" 8-core/16-thread processor featuring a guaranteed 5.0GHz all-core boost, designed for maximum gaming performance at the cost of higher power consumption. While delivering top-tier 1080p gaming performance and Z390 motherboard compatibility, the chip offers only marginal gains over the standard 9900K...Read more

T
techradar.com
05/11/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS review(www.techpowerup.com) | November 11 2019 | Intel Core i9-9900KS Review - Impressive 5 GHz

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a "Special Edition" processor, essentially a pre-binned version of the i9-9900K designed to reach 5.0 GHz on all cores right out of the box, offering peak performance on the 14nm Coffee Lake Refresh architecture. It excels in high-refresh-rate gaming, acting as one of the fastest gaming chips available at its 2019 release, while maintaining compatibility...Read more

A
au.pcmag.com
31/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS - Review 2019

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a "Special Edition" processor binned to achieve a 5GHz boost clock on all eight cores simultaneously, eliminating the "silicon lottery" for enthusiasts, according to PCMag Australia. It operates at a 4GHz base clock with a 127-watt TDP to sustain these speeds on the existing Z390 platform. While hailed as a top-tier 1080p gaming CPU, the review indicates...Read more

K
kitguru.net
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS 5GHz (8C16T) CPU Review

The KitGuru review of the Intel Core i9-9900KS highlights it as a "Special Edition" chip, featuring guaranteed 5GHz all-core turbo frequencies, making it a top-tier gaming CPU on the 14nm process. Proving faster for gaming than the standard i9-9900K due to binned silicon, the processor demands high-end cooling and a capable motherboard to manage a 127W TDP that can peak near 210W...Read more

T
tweaktown.com
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS (Coffee Lake) Processor Review

The TweakTown review highlights the Intel Core i9-9900KS as a "Special Edition" processor, featuring highly binned silicon capable of maintaining a 5GHz boost across all eight cores. By increasing the base clock to 4.0GHz, the 9900KS delivers a roughly 6% frequency increase over the standard 9900K, establishing itself as a premier gaming CPU with improved performance in 1080p gaming...Read more

T
techspot.com
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS Review

The TechSpot review of the Intel Core i9-9900KS characterizes the chip as a heavily binned, limited-edition 9900K, offering 5.0 GHz across all cores to secure the top spot in gaming performance at its 2019 launch. While performance gains over the standard 9900K are marginal (1-7%), it delivers a "plug-and-play" experience with high-quality silicon compatible with Z390 motherboards....Read more

P
pcmag.com
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS Review

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a "Special Edition" processor designed for maximum performance, featuring a 5GHz boost clock on all eight cores simultaneously through premium silicon binning. It is recognized as the fastest 1080p gaming CPU, offering strong single-core performance and modest multi-tasking improvements over the 9900K. However, it is outpaced by AMD alternatives in heavy...Read more

H
hothardware.com
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS Review: The Fastest Gaming CPU Bar None

The HotHardware review of the Intel Core i9-9900KS highlights a "Special Edition" 14nm Coffee Lake processor featuring hand-picked silicon designed to achieve a 5GHz turbo frequency across all eight cores. While offering superior single-threaded and gaming performance, the chip requires substantial cooling to handle its 127W TDP, showing high power draw. The review concludes that...Read more

U
uk.pcmag.com
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS - Review 2019 Do you need benchmark data or overclocking results extracted from any of these specific articles?

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a specially binned processor designed to guarantee a 5.0GHz boost clock across all eight cores, eliminating the "silicon lottery" for gamers. It improves upon the original i9-9900K with a higher 4.0GHz base clock and a 127W TDP, while retaining compatibility with Z390 motherboards. Performance testing confirms it as a top-tier 1080p gaming chip with...Read more

H
hexus.net
30/10/2019
Review: Intel Core i9-9900KS

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a specially binned 8-core, 16-thread processor representing the peak of Intel's 14nm architecture, achieving a 5.0GHz all-core turbo frequency out of the box. By raising the base clock to 4.0GHz and increasing the TDP to 127W, it offers top-tier 1080p gaming performance and high system responsiveness, utilizing existing Z390 motherboards. However, the...Read more

T
techgage.com
10/11/2019
Eight Cores At 5GHz: Intel Core i9-9900KS Review

The Intel Core i9-9900KS "Special Edition" processor achieves a 5GHz all-core turbo frequency out of the box, positioning it as a top-tier choice for high-refresh-rate 1080p gaming and frequency-dependent applications. However, this performance requires significant power, with a 127W TDP that often exceeds 200W under load, leading to high thermal output that demands premium liquid...Read more

E
eurogamer.net
12/11/2019
Intel Core i9 9900KS review: the new fastest gaming CPU

The Digital Foundry review of the Intel Core i9-9900KS highlights a factory-overclocked "special edition" that guarantees a 5.0GHz frequency across all eight cores, providing a 3% to 6% performance gain over the standard i9-9900K. As a pro, it delivers top-tier single-core performance and the highest frame rates for gaming at the time of release. Conversely, cons include...Read more

G
gamestar.de
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS Review: Benchmark Duel with 9900K and Ryzen 9 3900X

The GameStar review highlights the Intel Core i9-9900KS as a "best-of-the-best" 9900K, offering guaranteed 5.0 GHz all-core turbo speeds, which makes it the fastest gaming CPU available at its 2019 launch. While it delivers superior gaming performance and high efficiency at 5.0 GHz, the processor's drawbacks include a high 127W TDP requiring robust cooling and a restricted 12-month...Read more

(Translated)Show original
P
pcgameshardware.de
31/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS Benchmark Review: A Gaming King Driven by Brute Force

The PC Games Hardware review highlights the Intel Core i9-9900KS as a "Special Edition" variant, offering a guaranteed 5.0 GHz all-core boost clock out of the box for enthusiasts. This high-quality silicon binning delivers approximately 5–10% better performance in multi-threaded tasks and gaming compared to the standard i9-9900K. However, the increased speed comes at the cost of...Read more

(Translated)Show original
F
forum.lesnumeriques.com
27/12/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS: up to 5 GHz for this CPU built for gaming

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a "cherry-picked" special edition of the 9900K designed to guarantee a 5.0 GHz all-core turbo frequency right out of the box, providing superior gaming performance via increased base clocks and higher TDP. A key advantage is its superior silicon quality, allowing higher overclocking headroom and better thermal efficiency than standard chips, while...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
notebookcheck.biz
18/12/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS Review: 5 GHz All-Core Boost", "Testing the Intel Core i9-9900KS with 5 GHz Boost on All Cores

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a 14nm++ 8-core processor designed to guarantee a 5 GHz Turbo Boost across all cores, featuring an increased 4.0 GHz base clock and a higher 127W TDP compared to the 9900K. It offers superior gaming performance and high-quality silicon for stable, high-frequency operation on existing Z390 boards, representing roughly a 10% improvement over the standard...Read more

(Translated)Show original
G
global.techradar.com
09/12/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS Review

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a "cherry-picked" 14nm processor designed to achieve a 5.0GHz all-core boost, offering unmatched single-core speed for gaming on Z390 motherboards. Pros include high-performance gaming and easy upgrades, while cons are marked by high power consumption (127W TDP), excessive heat (reaching 87°C), and lower multi-core performance than competitors. Despite...Read more

(Translated)Show original
M
multiplayer.it
06/12/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS Review

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a "Special Edition" processor designed to push the 9th generation Coffee Lake architecture to its limit with a guaranteed 5.0 GHz all-core turbo frequency. Achieved through rigorous factory binning, this eight-core, sixteen-thread CPU offers extreme out-of-the-box performance. While labeled as the fastest gaming CPU upon its release, the review highlights...Read more

(Translated)Show original
H
hwupgrade.it
30/10/2019
Intel Core i9-9900KS: Massive power held back by its TDP

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a specially binned, limited-edition processor designed to deliver a guaranteed 5.0 GHz all-core turbo frequency out of the box, featuring a raised 127W TDP and a higher base clock of 4.0 GHz. Thanks to the use of high-quality silicon, it provides excellent gaming performance, often outperforming the standard 9900K and delivering superior overclocking...Read more

(Translated)Show original
N
notebookcheck.nl
15/12/2019
Quick Review: Intel Core i9-9900KS with 5 GHz All-Core Boost

The Intel Core i9-9900KS is a high-end, 8-core "special edition" processor featuring a 5.0 GHz all-core boost, achieving roughly 10% higher performance than the standard i9-9900K through superior silicon binning. While offering top-tier gaming performance, the chip requires robust cooling to handle its 127W TDP, which can spike to 200W, causing high power consumption and significant...Read more

(Translated)Show original

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