Intel ks processor
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And they used a faster DDR5-7200 memory with the KS just to outperform the i9-13900K by up to 6%.
When it comes to gaming, the i9-13900KS is around 5% faster in 1080p, and around 4% faster in 1440p than the i9-13900K. The performance-core and efficient-core base frequencies of the KS are also 200MHz faster than the K variant.
However, the more significant difference is their prices.
On top of its locked multiplier, the F series also does not have integrated graphics like the KF series.
Despite not having an iGPU and the multiplier being locked, the F series processors have their advantages. Just like the previous “KS” variant of processors, the Core i9-13900KS is simply a heavily binned or carefully selected silicone that can reach 6GHz easily.
Take into account how much you can afford to spend and the value of the processor over time. If you're a PC enthusiast who enjoys pushing the limits of your CPU's performance beyond its standard speed, then the K series is likely the ideal choice. They are an excellent option for those PC builders on a budget.
Whether you lean towards Intel or AMD, at the end of the day, you can’t go wrong with either CPU as long that the CPU you choose meets your requirements and fits your budget.
Once you are in the market for processors, you will come across different models from both sides. Because of its higher clock speeds, the KS series CPU also has a higher base power consumption, which translates into higher temperatures and the need for a more efficient cooling system.
Performance
According to data from cpubenchmark.net, while the Intel® Core i9-14900F is still one of the best CPUs available for gaming, it isn’t the best deal in terms of performance vs price.
While KF and K series CPUs are almost the same, the difference is that the latter also comes with integrated graphics (
K and KS series CPUs are also almost identical, both include integrated graphics but the latter can achieve slightly higher clock speeds.
Pricing
As of the date of this post, Intel’s recommended price ranges for the Intel® Core i9-14900F, Intel® Core i9-14900KF, Intel® Core i9-14900K, and Intel® Core i9-14900KS are $524.00-$554.00, $564.00-$574.00, $589.00-$599.00, and $689.00-$699.00, respectively.
Final Considerations
According to Intel.com, the Intel® Core i9-14900KS, delivering up to 6.2 GHz max turbo frequency, holds the title of the world’s fastest desktop processor and is ideal both for gamers and content creators.
of PCI Express Lanes
Core i9-13900KS vs i9-13900K Benchmarks
It looks like Intel did not seed any Core i9-13900KS to third-party reviewers.
The CORSAIR PC Builder is a tool that makes the process easy and straightforward. Whether for gaming, streaming, content creation, or video editing, the KS processor's capabilities are unmatched among Intel processors.
However, it’s important to point out that the higher performance of the Intel® Core i9-14900KS depends on it being cooled efficiently.
Below we discuss in detail four popular designations: K, KS, KF and F, their strengths and weaknesses, and their target applications.
Intel "K" - processors with an unlocked multiplier
What it means
Processors with the suffix K have an unlocked clock multiplier, which means they can be overclocked (overclocked) beyond their factory settings.
Strengths
- Overclocking capability - for advanced users, increases processor performance beyond standard clocks.
- Higher base clocks and Boost in practice, often a tad higher than standard models without suffix.
Weaknesses
- Requires better-grade cooling - overclocking generates more heat and requires more powerful coolers.
- Often higher power consumption in configurations with overclocking.
Purpose
The ideal choice of gaming and PC enthusiasts who want to maximize the potential of the CPU, especially when combined with powerful cooling and a motherboard with a Z-series chipset.
Intel "KS" - special versions with higher clock rates
What it means
The suffix KS is a special "overclocked selection" of CPUs, usually in top models (generally only in the Core i9 series), which have higher frequencies than the standard K.
Strengths
- Higher factory clocks than the K versions.
- Slightly better performance in single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks.
Weaknesses
- Higher price than standard K.
- Still require solid cooling and often more expensive motherboard.
Purpose
For the most demanding gamers, streamers and professionals who want maximum performance without further manual overclocking.
Intel "KF" - Unlocked, but without integrated graphics
What it means
Processors with the KF designation combine the features of K (unlocked multiplier) with F (no integrated GPU).
Strengths
- Ability to overclock as in K processors.
- Lower price than the counterpart with iGPU, because stripped of GPU lithography costs
Weaknesses
- No integrated graphics - requires a dedicated graphics card for on-screen display.
Purpose
An excellent option gaming and content creators who plan to use a dedicated graphics card anyway and want to save costs without sacrificing overclocking capabilities.
Intel "F" - no integrated graphics
What it means
Processors marked with the letter F do not have integrated graphics (iGPU).
Strengths
- Lower price compared to the counterpart without the F mark.
- Smaller design may generate slightly lower temperatures.
Weaknesses
- Requirement of a dedicated graphics card for system operation.
- Lack of overclocking capabilities (unlike K/KF models).
Purpose
Mainly for systems with a dedicated GPU - such as in gaming kits or workstations with powerful graphics cards, where integrated graphics are not needed.
Completion
Understanding the Intel K, KS, KF and F suffixes helps you consciously select a processor for specific applications - from budget kits with a graphics card, to gaming rigs, to high-performance units for professionals.
Check out some of the fastest graphics cards here.
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Peter is a PC enthusiast and avid gamer with several years of hands-on experience in testing and reviewing PC components, audio equipment, and various tech devices.
Overclocking enthusiasts will also find this series particularly appealing, as these processors have been pre-trimmed by Intel to run at higher frequencies. This can be beneficial for energy efficiency in systems that already have dedicated GPU solutions.
RECAP
- Intel processors with a “K” suffix indicate that you can overclock the CPU above its stock frequency and have integrated graphics or iGPU, meaning you don’t necessarily need a dedicated graphics card in your system to provide video output.
- Over the top "KS" series processors are a supercharged version of the "K" series processors, designed for those seeking performance at any price.
- The "KF" series processors are very similar to the "K" variants in terms of raw processing power and performance because they both have the same core architecture and have an unlocked multiplier.
Over the years, Intel has consistently produced CPUs known for their performance, reliability, and compatibility with a wide range of software and hardware platforms.
If you have built your desktop PC in the past, I’m sure you have looked at both Intel and AMD CPUs to see which option is best for your build. You will be paying a premium for top-tier performance, though, so keep in mind whether the value proposition makes sense for you.
INTEL KF PROCESSORS
The KF series processors are essentially the same as the K processors, with the only difference being that they do not have integrated graphics.
You should be familiar with the BIOS settings of your motherboard, as that's where you'll make the necessary adjustments to both the CPU and motherboard parameters to achieve a stable overclock.