INTEL

Intel Core i9-9900KF

Intel processor specifications and benchmark scores

8
Cores
16
Threads
5
GHz Boost
95W
TDP
🔓Unlocked

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.

Cores
8
Threads
16
SMP CPUs
1
⏱️

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.

Base Clock
3.6 GHz
Boost Clock
5 GHz
All-Core Turbo
4.7 GHz
Multiplier
36x 🔓
💾

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.

L1 Cache
64 KB (per core)
L2 Cache
256 KB (per core)
L3 Cache
16 MB (shared)
🏗️

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.

Architecture
Coffee Lake
Codename
Coffee Lake-R
Process Node
14 nm
Foundry
Intel
Die Size
180.3 mm²
Generation
Core i9 (Coffee Lake Refresh)
🔢

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.

MMX
SSE
SSE2
SSE3
SSSE3
SSE4.1
SSE4.2
AVX
AVX2
FMA3
AES-NI
F16C
BMI1
BMI2
Intel 64
VT-x
VT-d
🔌

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.

TDP
95W
PL1 (Base Power)
95 W
PL2 (Turbo Power)
119 W
Tj Max
100°C
🔧

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.

Socket
Intel Socket 1151
PCIe
Gen 3, 16 Lanes(CPU only)
Package
FC-LGA14C
DDR5

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.

Memory Type
DDR4
Memory Bus
Dual-channel
Memory Bandwidth
42.7 GB/s
📦

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.

Manufacturer
Intel
Release Date
Jan 2019
Launch Price
$488
Market
Desktop
Status
End-of-life
Part Number
SRG1ASRFAA

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_multicore #569 of 1788
1,549
10%
Max: 14,978
Compare with other CPUs

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_r15_singlecore #568 of 1245
218
10%
Max: 2,114

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_multicore #570 of 1788
6,456
10%
Max: 62,412
Compare with other CPUs

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_r20_singlecore #570 of 1784
911
10%
Max: 8,811

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_multicore #570 of 1788
15,373
10%
Max: 148,601
Compare with other CPUs

🏆 Top 5 Performers

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.

cinebench_cinebench_r23_singlecore #569 of 1788
2,170
10%
Max: 20,979
Compare with other CPUs

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_multicore #169 of 711
8,075
36%
Max: 22,515
Compare with other CPUs

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.

geekbench_singlecore #190 of 711
1,713
50%
Max: 3,401
Compare with other CPUs

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.

AMD Ryzen 9 3900X

AMD • 12 Cores

View Specs Compare

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