Intel has introduced its latest line of desktop processors, the Intel Core Ultra 200S series, designed with a focus on AI capabilities. Previously limited to laptops, this marks the first time the Intel Core Ultra series will be available for desktop computers. The flagship model, the Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 285K, leads the series, codenamed ‘Arrow Lake.’

Enhanced Performance and Efficiency

These new processors boast significant improvements in both performance and efficiency. With up to eight Performance Cores (P-Cores) and up to 16 Efficient Cores (E-Cores), the Core Ultra 200S series delivers up to 14% greater performance in multi-threaded workloads compared to its predecessors. Notably, Intel claims up to 50% lower package power in everyday applications and a reduction of up to 165W in system power while gaming. Users can anticipate up to 6% faster single-threaded performance and up to 14% faster multi-threaded performance.

Integrated AI Capabilities

A key feature of the Core Ultra 200S series is the integration of a Neural Processing Unit (NPU). This dedicated AI hardware allows the processors to achieve up to 50% faster performance in AI-enabled creator applications compared to competing flagships. The NPU contributes to a significant reduction in power consumption during AI workloads and can free up resources on discrete GPUs, potentially enhancing gaming performance.

Advanced Features and Connectivity

The Intel Core Ultra 200S series processors are equipped with the new Intel 800 Series Chipset, extending platform compatibility with features such as:

Up to 24 PCIe 4.0 lanes
Up to eight SATA 3.0 ports
Up to 10 USB 3.2 ports
20 CPU PCIe 5.0 lanes
Four CPU PCIe 4.0 lanes
Support for two integrated Thunderbolt 4 connections
Bluetooth v5.3 and Wi-Fi 6E support, with Intel Killer Wi-Fi for optimized online gaming

Overclocking and Security

The processors introduce enhanced overclocking features, including fine-grain controls for top turbo frequency in 16.6MHz increments for both P-Cores and E-Cores. A new memory controller supports XMP and CUDIMM DDR5 memory up to 48GB per DIMM, allowing for a total of 192GB of memory. Security is addressed through the Intel Silicon Security Engine, designed to protect data confidentiality and code integrity without compromising performance.

The Intel Core Ultra 200S series processors will be available for purchase online, in retail stores, and through OEM partners starting October 24, 2024.