Intel’s Core Ultra Series: A Game Changer for Notebook Graphics Performance
Summary:
- Intel’s latest Core Ultra series processors significantly boost integrated graphics performance.
- The newly tested Ruixuan B390 iGPU showcases impressive frame rates across various popular games.
- Challenges remain in software compatibility that may affect early user experiences.
Intel has made waves in the computing world this January at CES 2026, unveiling its Panther Lake series of processors which include the Core Ultra 300 series. Among the notable advancements, the Core Ultra X9 388H, equipped with a Ruixuan B390 integrated graphics processing unit (iGPU), has shown exceptional performance during hands-on testing.
One standout feature of the Core Ultra X9 388H is its robust configuration of 12 Xe3 cores, allowing for a high level of graphical output that is typically expected from dedicated graphics cards. To test its capabilities, a Lenovo notebook was put through various gaming scenarios, revealing impressive results that defy the limitations of integrated graphics.
Impressive Gaming Performance
The testing was conducted with resolutions set at 1080p and 1200p, utilizing XeSS technology without frame generation. Results for several powerhouse titles have been noteworthy:
- Cyberpunk 2077: Achieved a remarkable average frame rate of 81.4 FPS at 1080p in high-quality settings with XeSS operating in balanced mode.
- Baldur’s Gate 3: At 1200p in high definition with XeSS quality mode, the processor maintained an average frame rate of over 68.4 FPS.
- F1 2025: The gaming experience soared as the frame rate exceeded 100 FPS, reaching an impressive 109.5 FPS.
Additionally, even demanding titles like Monster Hunter: Wildlands demonstrated playable performance, registering 35.5 FPS at 1200p in medium quality settings. Another benchmark from ETA Prime highlighted that Shadow of the Tomb Raider could also reach an average frame rate of 74 FPS at 1200p high-quality settings.
The Future of Integrated Graphics
Intel is positioning the Ruixuan B390 as a pioneering integrated graphics solution by being the first to support multi-frame generation technology. However, early testing has unveiled some software compatibility challenges. Users have reported inconsistencies with XeSS quality across different titles, and issues such as frame drops during the initial game launch were noted. This indicates that while the hardware shows promise, further driver optimizations will be crucial in enhancing the user experience.
What This Means for Gamers and Content Creators
Intel’s advancements in its Core Ultra series signal a shift in the capabilities of integrated graphics. Gamers looking to avoid the high costs associated with dedicated graphics cards may find that these new processors provide an attractive alternative. For content creators and casual gamers alike, the balance of performance and affordability could change the market landscape, encouraging a wider audience to engage with demanding games without sacrificing quality.
Conclusion
As Intel’s Core Ultra X9 388H with its Ruixuan B390 iGPU sets new benchmarks for integrated graphics, it is clear that the company is committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in notebook computing. While some software issues remain to be addressed, the early results are promising, paving the way for a future where high-quality gaming and efficient performance become more accessible for a broader range of users.
With ongoing advancements and optimizations, Intel’s push into the realm of powerful integrated graphics could redefine user expectations and reshape the notebook landscape in the coming years.
