Intel’s Arrow Lake Refresh: Next-Gen Processors Unveiled
Summary:
- Intel has officially announced the Arrow Lake Refresh series processors, enhancing performance with a "Plus" suffix.
- Key models include the Core Ultra 9 290K Plus, boasting a boosted clock speed and improved thermal performance.
- The lineup supports upgraded memory specifications, increasing from DDR5-6400 MT/s to DDR5-7200 MT/s.
Intel has unveiled its latest mid-term upgrade to the Arrow Lake desktop processor line, introducing a refreshed range labeled the Arrow Lake Refresh series. Each new model carries the "Plus" suffix, emphasizing performance enhancements that will appeal to gamers, creators, and tech enthusiasts alike.
Core Ultra 9 290K Plus: Flagship Performance
Leading the charge is the Core Ultra 9 290K Plus. This flagship model features an increase in maximum P-Core frequency and thermal velocity boost (TVB) frequency by 100 MHz compared to its predecessor, the 285K version. The updated processor achieves a TVB frequency of an impressive 5.8 GHz, enhancing both single-core and multi-core performance despite maintaining the same core configuration of "8 P-Cores and 16 E-Cores."
Core Ultra 7 270K Plus: Enhanced Core Count
Next up, the Core Ultra 7 270K Plus focuses on expanding the core count while maintaining frequencies similar to the previous 265K model. It adds four energy-efficient cores, upgrading the configuration from "8 P-Cores and 12 E-Cores" to "8 P-Cores and 16 E-Cores," bringing the total core count to 24. This strategic upgrade mirrors the approach taken by the prior generation, which also prioritized core count enhancements in its flagship series.
Core Ultra 5 250K Plus: Strong Mid-Range Competitor
The Core Ultra 5 250K Plus model presents a well-rounded option for mid-range users. This processor benefits from a 100 MHz P-Core frequency increase akin to the flagship model and introduces four additional energy-efficient cores. With the configuration now standing at "6 P-Cores and 12 E-Cores," the total core count goes up to 18. This dual boost in frequency and core count positions the 250K Plus as a competitive player in the mid-range market, neatly slotting between the standard Ultra 7 265K and Ultra 5 245K.
Memory Enhancements Across the Lineup
An essential aspect of the Arrow Lake Refresh series is its memory support improvements. All "Plus" models will now officially support memory specifications upgraded to DDR5-7200 MT/s, marking an increase from the previous DDR5-6400 MT/s. This boost in memory bandwidth—an additional 800 MT/s—offers considerable potential for users, particularly those who seek to optimize their systems for gaming and high-performance tasks.
Conclusion: A Promising Upgrade
Overall, the Arrow Lake Refresh series signifies a promising evolution in Intel’s processor offerings. With an emphasis on core count, frequency improvements, and enhanced memory support, these processors aim to meet the demands of modern computing. As users look for greater performance in both gaming and content creation, Intel’s latest lineup appears ready to deliver.
Key Specifications Table
| CPU | Core/Thread | Base Clock (P/E Core) | Max Frequency (P/E Core) | Cache (L3/L2) | Memory Support | TDP | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Core Ultra 9 290K Plus | 24/24 (8+16) | 3.7/3.2 GHz | 5.6/4.8 GHz | 36MB/40MB | DDR5-7200 | 125W/250W | Unknown |
| Core Ultra 9 285K | 24/24 (8+16) | 3.7/3.2 GHz | 5.5/4.6 GHz | 36MB/40MB | DDR5-6400 | 125W/250W | $589 |
| Core Ultra 7 270K Plus | 24/24 (8+16) | 3.7/3.2 GHz | 5.5/4.7 GHz | 36MB/40MB | DDR5-7200 | 125W/250W | Unknown |
| Core Ultra 7 265K | 20/20 (8+12) | 3.9/3.3 GHz | 5.4/4.6 GHz | 30MB/36MB | DDR5-6400 | 125W/250W | $394 |
| Core Ultra 5 250K Plus | 18/18 (6+12) | 4.2/3.5 GHz | 5.3/4.7 GHz | 24MB/26MB | DDR5-7200 | 125W/159W | Unknown |
| Core Ultra 5 245K | 14/14 (6+8) | 4.2/3.6 GHz | 5.2/4.6 GHz | 24MB/26MB | DDR5-6400 | 125W/159W | $309 |
With these enhancements, the Arrow Lake Refresh series sets a new standard for desktop processors, ensuring users have access to the latest technological advancements to elevate their computing experiences.