Intel Launches New Xeon 600 Workstation Processors: Key Features and Performance Insights
- Unprecedented Core Count: The Xeon 698X boasts 86 cores and 172 threads.
- Advanced Memory Support: Up to 4TB of DDR5 memory, with speeds reaching 8000MT/s.
- Superior Performance: Offers up to 61% improvement in multi-thread efficiency over its predecessor.
Intel has officially unveiled its next-generation Xeon 600 series workstation processors, codenamed "Granite Rapids-WS." This series signifies a major technological advancement in workstation computing, marking a shift from the previous Xeon W-3500/2500 product lines.
Unified Product Line
Departing from earlier distinctions between mainstream and expert-level models, Intel now offers a consolidated lineup under the Xeon 600 brand. This new series introduces 11 different SKUs that cater to a wider range of professional needs, including six overclockable models.
Flagship Model Features
The standout in this series is the Xeon 698X. It features a dual computing core (XCC) design that encompasses a remarkable 86 cores and 172 threads. In addition to a robust architecture that includes a 336MB L3 cache, the Xeon 698X operates with a base frequency of 2.0GHz and can reach a turbo frequency of up to 4.8GHz. One of the most striking capabilities of the Xeon 698X is its fully unlocked design for overclocking, providing an unprecedented level of customization for performance enthusiasts.
Performance Breakthroughs
Power consumption remains consistent, yet the Xeon 698X excels with a 9% enhancement in single-thread performance while achieving an impressive 61% boost in multi-thread performance compared to the previous generation’s 64-core Xeon W3595X. This leap in performance allows professionals to tackle more demanding applications and workloads with confidence.
Innovative Platform Support
The Xeon 600 series is built on the advanced W890 chipset, which facilitates 128 direct connection PCIe 5.0 channels and supports 8-channel DDR5-6400 RDIMM memory. Users can maximize their capacities with up to 4TB of memory and access next-gen DDR5 MRDIMM memory systems, offering remarkable speeds of up to 8000MT/s. This combination of features ensures that the Xeon 600 series meets the rigorous demands of modern computing tasks.
Benchmark Achievements
In collaboration with ASUS, the Xeon 698X processor has set new records in ten benchmark tests recognized by HWBOT. These include notables such as Geekbench4 and Geekbench5 multi-core tests, as well as significant performance in Y-Cruncher benchmarks for large number computations.
Moreover, joint efforts with ASUS have led to impressive results in various global benchmark tests. The Xeon 600 series is positioned to dominate across leading tests like Geekbench3 and Geekbench6, as well as Cinebench R20, R23, R15, and Y-Cruncher datasets.
Availability and Future Prospects
Starting in late March 2026, the Xeon 600 series workstation processors will be made available through various OEMs and system integrators, as well as in independent boxed versions. The series will include standalone models such as the Intel Xeon 696X (64 cores), Intel Xeon 678X (48 cores), Intel Xeon 676X (32 cores), Intel Xeon 658X (24 cores), and the Intel Xeon 654 (18 cores).
Conclusion
Intel’s Xeon 600 series workstation processors represent a significant leap in computing capabilities, combining high core counts, exceptional memory support, and improved performance metrics. As the demand for powerful workstation solutions continues to grow, the Xeon 600 series is well-positioned to meet and exceed the expectations of professionals across various industries.
