You guys remember the Core i9-9990XE we've talked about a couple of times right? Basically, Intel launched the product, then it was discovered this processor has only 14 cores and thus 28 threads opposed to the previous flagship was the i9-9980XE with 18 cores/36 threads.
Intel is trading in cores for frequency as the Core i9-9990XE processor for many reasons to be found in heat and TDP, so it has only 14 cores and thus 28 threads. This means they have disabled four cores to trade in towards a higher clock frequency and manage the TDP. Mind you that the TDP for this part still is a whopping 255 Watts. The next fact was thus, the processor would become an exclusive one for system builders only (the ones that can get their hands on one). Intel will hold an auction each quarter. Well, it has now has finally reached retail with a small number available and at prices so ridiculous that it'll make you laugh. And remember, this was to be launched and auction at roughly 1979 USD which already was intensely high.
Cores / Threads |
Base / Boost (GHz) |
L3 Cache (MB) |
PCIe 3.0 | DRAM | TDP | MSRP/RCP | |
Core i9-9990XE | 14 / 28 | 4.0 / 5.1 | 19.25 | 44 | Quad DDR4-2666 |
255W | NA |
Core i9-9980XE | 18 / 36 | 3.0 / 4.5 | 24.75 | 44 | Quad DDR4-2666 | 165W | $1979 |
Core i9-9940X | 14 / 28 | 3.3 / 4.5 | 19.25 | 44 | Quad DDR4-266 | 165W | $1387 |
German retailer CaseKing.de has listed the Core i9-9990XE for 2.999,00 Euros or $3,376.08. I mean, of course it's a fantastic processor with these frequencies, but yeah .. not 3000 bucks fantastic eh?
Intel's 'Auction-only' 14 Core Core i9-9990XE Gets Listed at Retailer website for 2999 EUR