Intel Core i9-9900KF
Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores
Intel Core i9-9900KF Specifications
Core i9-9900KF Core Configuration
Processing cores and threading
The Intel Core i9-9900KF features 8 physical cores and 16 threads, which directly impacts multi-threaded performance in CPU benchmarks. More cores allow the processor to handle parallel workloads efficiently, improving performance in video editing, 3D rendering, and multitasking scenarios. Thread count determines how many simultaneous tasks the CPU can process, with higher thread counts benefiting productivity applications and content creation workflows.
i9-9900KF Clock Speeds
Base and boost frequencies
Clock speed is a critical factor in Core i9-9900KF benchmark performance, measured in GHz. The base clock represents the guaranteed operating frequency, while the boost clock indicates maximum single-core performance under optimal conditions. Higher clock speeds translate to faster single-threaded performance, which is essential for gaming and applications that don't fully utilize multiple cores. The Core i9-9900KF by Intel can dynamically adjust its frequency based on workload and thermal headroom.
Intel's Core i9-9900KF Cache Hierarchy
L1, L2, L3 cache sizes
Cache memory is ultra-fast storage built directly into the i9-9900KF processor die. L1 cache provides the fastest access for frequently used data, while L2 and L3 caches offer progressively larger storage with slightly higher latency. Larger cache sizes significantly improve CPU benchmark scores by reducing memory access times. The Core i9-9900KF's cache configuration is optimized for both gaming performance and productivity workloads, minimizing data fetch delays during intensive computations.
Coffee Lake Architecture & Process
Manufacturing and design details
The Intel Core i9-9900KF is built on Intel's 14 nm manufacturing process, which determines power efficiency and thermal characteristics. Smaller process nodes allow for more transistors in the same space, enabling higher performance per watt. The architecture defines how the processor handles instructions and manages data flow, directly impacting benchmark results across different workload types. Modern CPU architectures like the one in i9-9900KF incorporate advanced branch prediction and out-of-order execution for optimal performance.
Coffee Lake Instruction Set Features
Supported CPU instructions and extensions
The Core i9-9900KF by Intel supports various instruction set extensions that enable optimized performance for specific workloads. SIMD instructions like SSE and AVX accelerate multimedia, scientific computing, and AI workloads by processing multiple data points simultaneously. Features like AES-NI provide hardware-accelerated encryption, while AVX-512 (if supported) enables advanced vector processing for data centers and high-performance computing. These instruction sets are critical for software compatibility and performance in modern applications.
i9-9900KF Power & Thermal
TDP and power specifications
The Intel Core i9-9900KF has a TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 95W, indicating the cooling solution required for sustained operation. TDP affects both system power consumption and the type of cooler needed. Lower TDP processors are ideal for compact builds and laptops, while higher TDP chips typically offer better sustained performance in demanding CPU benchmarks. Understanding power requirements helps ensure your system can deliver consistent performance without thermal throttling.
Intel Socket 1151 Platform & Socket
Compatibility information
The Core i9-9900KF uses the Intel Socket 1151 socket, which determines motherboard compatibility. Choosing the right platform is essential for building a system around this processor. The socket type also influences available features like PCIe lanes, memory support, and upgrade paths. When comparing CPU benchmarks, ensure you're looking at processors compatible with your existing or planned motherboard to make informed purchasing decisions.
Intel Socket 1151 Memory Support
RAM compatibility and speeds
Memory support specifications for the i9-9900KF define which RAM types and speeds are compatible. Faster memory can significantly improve CPU benchmark performance, especially in memory-intensive applications and gaming. The memory controller integrated into the Core i9-9900KF determines maximum supported speeds and channels. Dual-channel or quad-channel memory configurations can double or quadruple memory bandwidth, providing noticeable performance gains in content creation and scientific workloads.
Core i9-9900KF Product Information
Release and pricing details
The Intel Core i9-9900KF is manufactured by Intel and represents their commitment to delivering competitive CPU performance. Understanding the release date and pricing helps contextualize benchmark comparisons with other processors from the same generation. Launch pricing provides a baseline for evaluating value, though street prices often differ. Whether you're building a new system or upgrading, the Core i9-9900KF by Intel offers a specific balance of performance, features, and cost within Intel's product lineup.
Core i9-9900KF Benchmark Scores
cinebench_cinebench_r15_multicoreSource
Cinebench R15 multi-core renders a complex 3D scene using all CPU threads simultaneously. This test reveals how Intel Core i9-9900KF performs in parallel rendering workloads like video production and 3D animation. The R15 version remains useful for comparing against older hardware benchmarks. Higher scores directly correlate with faster render times in Cinema 4D and similar 3D applications.
cinebench_cinebench_r15_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R15 single-core measures the speed of one CPU thread rendering 3D geometry. This score indicates how Intel Core i9-9900KF handles tasks that can't be parallelized across multiple cores. Games and many desktop applications still rely heavily on single-thread performance. A higher single-core score means snappier system responsiveness in everyday use.
cinebench_cinebench_r20_multicoreSource
Cinebench R20 multi-core uses a scene requiring 4x more computational power than R15. This test better reflects modern CPU capabilities for professional rendering on Intel Core i9-9900KF. The more demanding workload provides better differentiation between current-generation processors.
cinebench_cinebench_r20_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R20 single-core tests one thread against a more demanding scene than R15. This reveals the true single-thread rendering capability of Intel Core i9-9900KF. The increased complexity provides more accurate performance differentiation between modern CPUs.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_multicoreSource
Cinebench R23 multi-core is the current standard for CPU rendering benchmarks with a 10-minute minimum runtime. This extended test reveals sustained performance of Intel Core i9-9900KF after thermal limits kick in. The longer duration exposes cooling limitations that shorter benchmarks miss.
cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecoreSource
Cinebench R23 single-core measures sustained single-thread performance over 10 minutes. This reveals how Intel Core i9-9900KF maintains boost clocks under continuous load. The extended runtime shows whether thermal throttling affects single-core performance.
geekbench_multicoreSource
Geekbench multi-core tests Intel Core i9-9900KF across real-world workloads including image processing, machine learning, and data compression. All available threads are utilized to measure parallel performance. Higher scores indicate better capability in multitasking and content creation.
geekbench_singlecoreSource
Geekbench single-core measures how fast one thread of Intel Core i9-9900KF can process tasks like web browsing and document editing. This score correlates with how snappy the system feels during normal use. Many applications still depend primarily on single-thread performance.
About Intel Core i9-9900KF
The Intel Core i9-9900KF stands out with its 8-core, 16-thread configuration, delivering robust multitasking capabilities for demanding workloads. This setup leverages Intel's Hyper-Threading technology to handle up to 16 threads simultaneously, making it ideal for content creation and gaming scenarios that benefit from parallel processing. In benchmarks like Cinebench R23 multicore, it scores an impressive 15,373 points, showcasing its prowess in multi-threaded tasks compared to previous generations. The 16 MB L3 cache further enhances data access speeds, reducing latency in cache-intensive applications. Overall, this core-thread balance positions the i9-9900KF by Intel as a high-performance CPU from the Coffee Lake Refresh era, released on January 8, 2019, at a launch price of $488.
With a base clock of 3.60 GHz and a turbo boost up to 5.00 GHz, the i9-9900KF by Intel excels in delivering peak single-threaded performance for applications sensitive to clock speeds. Geekbench single-core results hit 1,713 points, while Cinebench R23 single-core reaches 2,170 points, underlining its efficiency in tasks like everyday computing and light gaming. The all-core turbo frequency sustains high speeds under load, contributing to the 8,075 multicore Geekbench score that rivals many contemporaries. This frequency profile, built on Intel's 14 nm process, ensures responsive performance without excessive power draw at its 95W TDP. For hardware enthusiasts, these specs translate to snappy responsiveness in real-world usage, from video editing to 3D rendering.
The thermal design power of 95W for the 9900KF processor allows for efficient cooling solutions, though it demands a capable aftermarket cooler for sustained turbo boosts to avoid throttling. In multicore Cinebench R20 tests, it achieves 6,456 points, demonstrating solid thermal management under prolonged stress. The LGA 1151 socket compatibility ensures easy integration with existing motherboards, but users should pair it with DDR4 memory up to 2666 MHz for optimal performance. Intel's memory subsystem supports dual-channel configurations, enhancing bandwidth for memory-bound tasks and contributing to overall system stability. This combination keeps temperatures in check during extended sessions, appealing to overclockers who push beyond stock limits.
The i9-9900KF shines in applications that leverage its multicore architecture, making it a favorite for creative professionals and gamers alike. Video encoding in tools like Adobe Premiere Pro benefits from the 15,373 Cinebench R23 multicore score, speeding up render times significantly. In 3D modeling software such as Blender, the high thread count accelerates complex simulations. Gaming at 1080p or 1440p sees uplifts from the 5.00 GHz turbo, pairing well with high-end GPUs. For streaming setups, the processor's balanced frequencies handle encoding without frame drops.
- Content creation workflows, including 4K video editing and rendering.
- Multiplayer gaming with CPU-intensive titles like strategy games.
- Virtual machine hosting for development environments.
- Photo manipulation in Photoshop with batch processing.
- Scientific simulations requiring parallel computations.
The AMD Equivalent of Core i9-9900KF
Looking for a similar processor from AMD? The AMD Ryzen 9 3900X offers comparable performance and features in the AMD lineup.
Popular Intel Core i9-9900KF Comparisons
See how the Core i9-9900KF stacks up against similar processors from the same generation and competing brands.
Compare Core i9-9900KF with Other CPUs
Select another CPU to compare specifications and benchmarks side-by-side.
Browse CPUs