SYSTEM ANALYZER

Rate My PC: Intel Core i9-14900KS + NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050

Get a comprehensive performance analysis of your gaming rig with detailed benchmarks, bottleneck detection, and upgrade recommendations

94 / 100
ULTIMATE READY

Apex Performer

Top 6% of systems. Capable of 4K Ultra gaming and advanced rendering.

4K 60+ FPSVR ReadyRay Tracing

System Balance Analysis

CPU vs GPU performance ratio
Well Balanced
CPU
97%
VS
GPU
91%
PROCESSOR

Intel Core i9-14900KS

81,127 Benchmark Score
Top 3% Market Ranking
View Full Specs →
GRAPHICS CARD

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050

21,035 Benchmark Score
Top 9% Market Ranking
View Full Specs →

Market Position

How your build compares to others
Budget
0-30
Mid-Range
30-60
High-End
60-85
Enthusiast
85-100
Your Build

Game Performance Benchmarks

Real-world 4K FPS in popular titles
View All Games →

Performance Insights

Tips to maximize your system

Optimal Performance

Your system is in the top tier. You can run any modern game at maximum settings.

4K Gaming Ready

Consider a 4K 144Hz monitor to fully utilize your hardware capabilities.

Compatible Games See what you can play Compare CPUs Find upgrades Compare GPUs Find upgrades

Performance Tiers Explained

90-100

Ultimate

4K Ultra gaming, VR ready, ray tracing enabled, professional workloads

4K 60+ FPS VR Ready
70-89

High-End

1440p Ultra or 4K High settings, excellent for modern AAA titles

1440p Ultra 4K High
50-69

Mid-Range

1080p Ultra or 1440p Medium, great value for most gamers

1080p Ultra 1440p Med
30-49

Entry Level

1080p Medium settings, suitable for eSports and older titles

1080p Med eSports
0-29

Legacy

Basic gaming, older titles, consider upgrading for modern games

720p-1080p Low Older Games

# CPU Analysis

The Intel Core i9-14900KS is the flagship of the Core 14th Gen desktop lineup, built on the Raptor Lake architecture with a Raptor Lake-R codename. This is a 24-core, 32-thread processor manufactured on Intel's 10 nm process node, with a die size of 257 mm². The core configuration combines performance and efficiency cores, though the FACT PACK does not specify the exact split. The base clock is 3.20 GHz, and the boost clock reaches 6.20 GHz, which is the highest boost figure in the data. The processor carries a TDP of 150 W and supports DDR4 and DDR5 memory in a dual-channel configuration, with ECC memory support available.

The cache hierarchy is substantial: 80 KB of L1 per core, 2 MB of L2 per core, and 36 MB of shared L3 cache. This large cache pool is critical for workloads that repeatedly access the same data sets, such as database operations or compiled code execution. The processor also includes UHD Graphics 770 integrated graphics, which provides a fallback display output and basic acceleration when a discrete GPU is not present or is being serviced.

Benchmark data positions this CPU at the 96th percentile among all processors, meaning it outperforms 96% of the CPUs in the database. The average benchmark score is 81,127. In Cinebench R23, the multi-core score is 50,995, while the single-core score is 7,199. The multi-core result indicates exceptional throughput for heavily threaded workloads such as 3D rendering, video encoding, and scientific simulations. The single-core score is equally impressive, suggesting strong responsiveness in lightly threaded applications like web browsing, office productivity, and legacy software that cannot utilize many cores.

Geekbench results reinforce this picture: a multi-core score of 23,931 and a single-core score of 2,692. These numbers are consistent with a processor that excels in both parallel and single-threaded tasks. The PassMark suite provides granular insights into specific workload types. The multi-thread score of 60,012 and the single-thread score of 4,815 are both strong. Integer math scores 212,644, while floating-point math scores 153,975, indicating robust arithmetic capability for both general-purpose and scientific computation. Data compression scores 803,368, which is exceptionally high and suggests the CPU is well-suited for archiving, file servers, and database workloads. Data encryption scores 47,717, and extended instructions score 45,524, both pointing to strong performance in cryptographic and SIMD-accelerated tasks.

The nearest rivals provide context. The Intel Xeon w5-3535X and AMD Ryzen 9 8940HX both have average scores of 81,115 and 81,103, respectively, with a deltaPct of 0 from the i9-14900KS. The AMD Ryzen AI Max+ PRO 395 scores 80,762, which is 0.5% lower, and the Intel Xeon 638 scores 80,723, also 0.5% lower. This means the i9-14900KS is effectively tied with those workstation and high-end mobile processors, and marginally ahead of two others. For real workloads, this translates to a CPU that can handle multi-hour video renders, large-scale code compilation, and complex data analysis without becoming the limiting factor in most desktop systems.

Benchmark Performance

The benchmark picture combines CPU and GPU scores to establish overall system capability. The CPU's average benchmark score is 81,127, placing it at the 96th percentile. The GPU, an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050, has an average benchmark score of 21,035 and sits at the 66th percentile among all GPUs. The combined percentile for this pairing is 81, which reflects the fact that the CPU is far stronger relative to its peers than the GPU is relative to its own peers.

The GPU's individual benchmark results show a mixed profile. In 3DMark Steel Nomad DX12, the RTX 5050 scores 2,502. The Geekbench OpenCL score is 90,334, and the Vulkan score is 89,381, showing near-parity between those two APIs. PassMark results include a G3D score of 17,326, a G2D score of 1,113, and a GPU compute score of 9,184. The DirectX 11 score of 150 and DirectX 10 score of 103 are notably higher than the DirectX 12 score of 66, which is an unusual pattern that may reflect driver maturity or specific benchmark characteristics. The DirectX 9 score of 186 is the highest among the DirectX tests.

Comparing the RTX 5050 to its nearest rivals, the AMD Radeon RX Vega M GL has an average score of 21,153, which is 0.6% higher than the RTX 5050. The AMD Radeon HD 8970M scores 21,237, 1% higher. The AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT scores 20,713, which is 1.6% lower. The NVIDIA RTX A4000 Mobile scores 21,379, 1.6% higher. These deltas are all within a narrow band, meaning the RTX 5050 is essentially a mid-pack performer among its closest competitors, despite being a current-generation part.

The combined picture is one of stark imbalance. The CPU is a top-tier enthusiast processor that can drive any workload, while the GPU is a mid-range part that will limit frame rates in demanding games and graphics applications. The data shows a 30-percentage-point gap in percentiles (96 for CPU versus 66 for GPU). For users who prioritize CPU-bound tasks like rendering, compilation, or data processing, this pairing is sensible. For gamers, the GPU will be the primary constraint.

FAQ

Q: What is the Intel Core i9-14900KS's percentile ranking among all CPUs?

A: The i9-14900KS is at the 96th percentile, meaning it outperforms 96% of all CPUs in the benchmark database.

Q: How does the RTX 5050 compare to its nearest rival, the AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT?

A: The RTX 5050 has an average benchmark score of 21,035, while the RX 5600 XT scores 20,713. The RTX 5050 is 1.6% higher, a small but measurable advantage.

Q: What is the combined percentile for this CPU and GPU pairing?

A: The combined percentile is 81, reflecting the CPU's high standing and the GPU's more modest position.

Q: Does the i9-14900KS support ECC memory?

A: Yes, the processor supports ECC memory, which is useful for workstation and server-style reliability requirements.

Q: What is the boost clock of the i9-14900KS?

A: The boost clock is 6.20 GHz, the highest figure in the FACT PACK for this processor.

Q: What memory types does the i9-14900KS support?

A: It supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory in a dual-channel configuration.

Q: What is the TDP of the RTX 5050 and what PSU does it suggest?

A: The RTX 5050 has a TDP of 130 W, and the suggested PSU is 300 W.

Q: What is the VRAM size and bandwidth of the RTX 5050?

A: The RTX 5050 has 8 GB of GDDR6 memory on a 128-bit bus, with a bandwidth of 320.0 GB/s.

Upgrade Path and Platform

The i9-14900KS uses Intel Socket 1700, which is a mature platform. The processor supports both DDR4 and DDR5 memory, giving builders flexibility to reuse older DDR4 modules or invest in newer DDR5 kits. The memory bus is dual-channel, so performance scales with dual-rank or dual-channel configurations. ECC memory support is present, which is a distinguishing feature for users who require error-correcting memory in a desktop context.

PCIe support is Gen 5 with 16 lanes available from the CPU. This means the platform can accommodate the fastest current-generation NVMe storage and graphics cards, provided the motherboard and GPU support PCIe Gen 5. The RTX 5050 uses a PCIe 5.0 x8 interface, which fits within the CPU's 16-lane allocation, leaving additional lanes for storage or other devices.

The GPU's TDP is 130 W, and the suggested PSU is 300 W. This is a modest power requirement, meaning the system does not need an oversized power supply. The CPU TDP is 150 W, so combined, the CPU and GPU draw 280 W under typical full load. A reasonable PSU with headroom for drives, fans, and other components would be appropriate. The RTX 5050 uses a single 8-pin power connector and is a dual-slot card, which simplifies installation in most cases.

A sensible next upgrade for this platform would be a stronger GPU. The CPU has substantial headroom, as evidenced by its 96th percentile ranking. Users who find the RTX 5050 limiting in games or rendering could move to a higher-tier GPU without changing the CPU or motherboard. The platform also supports up to 16 PCIe Gen 5 lanes, so there is bandwidth headroom for a faster graphics card. Alternatively, users could add a second NVMe drive or a capture card using the remaining PCIe lanes, though the RTX 5050's x8 interface already consumes half of the CPU's lanes.

The CPU's 150 W TDP and the platform's support for DDR5 mean that a system built around this pairing is not at a dead end. The socket 1700 platform is mature, and the CPU is an active production part. Users looking to extend the system's life should prioritize GPU upgrades, as that is where the performance bottleneck lies.

Balance and Bottleneck

The balance between the i9-14900KS and the RTX 5050 is heavily skewed toward the CPU. The CPU's 96th percentile ranking versus the GPU's 66th percentile means that in most workloads, the GPU will be the limiting factor. This is especially true in gaming, where the GPU renders frames and the CPU prepares draw calls and game logic. At lower resolutions, the CPU's high single-core performance (7,199 in Cinebench R23 single-core) will keep frame times low, but the GPU's raw throughput (13.17 TFLOPS FP32) will cap the maximum frame rate.

In CPU-bound workloads, the imbalance reverses. Tasks like video encoding, 3D rendering, and code compilation rely heavily on the CPU's 24 cores and 32 threads. The RTX 5050's compute capability (9,184 in PassMark GPU compute) is sufficient for acceleration in some applications, but the CPU will dominate in these scenarios. The data shows that the CPU is 30 percentage points higher than the GPU in percentile terms, making the CPU the clear performance leader.

The FPS scaling evidence is absent from the FACT PACK, as no measured FPS data exists for this exact combination. However, the benchmark scores provide a basis for estimation. The GPU's 3DMark Steel Nomad score of 2,502 suggests it can handle modern DX12 titles at moderate settings, but it will struggle at high resolutions or with ray tracing enabled. The CPU's performance will not be the constraint in these cases; the GPU will determine playable settings.

For productivity workloads, the bottleneck analysis changes. The CPU's PassMark multi-thread score of 60,012 indicates that heavily threaded tasks will fly. The GPU's compute score of 9,184 is respectable but not exceptional, so GPU-accelerated rendering will see less benefit. In mixed workloads, such as streaming while gaming, the CPU's 32 threads can handle encoding (via software) while the GPU renders the game, though the GPU's modest performance will still limit game settings.

Usage Scenarios

High-refresh gaming: The RTX 5050's performance, as indicated by its 66th percentile ranking and a 3DMark Steel Nomad score of 2,502, will support 1080p gaming at high frame rates in many titles, but 1440p at high refresh rates will require reduced settings. The CPU's strong single-core score ensures the system will not be CPU-limited in most games.

Streaming: The CPU's 24 cores and 32 threads are more than sufficient for software encoding, and the PassMark data encryption score of 47,717 suggests robust encoding throughput. The GPU's NVENC (implied by the Blackwell architecture) can offload encoding, but the CPU can handle it alone without significant frame drops.

Video editing: The CPU's Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 50,995 indicates rapid export times in premiere-class applications. The GPU's 8 GB VRAM and 320.0 GB/s bandwidth are adequate for 1080p and some 1440p timelines, but 4K timelines with heavy effects may exceed the GPU's capacity.

3D rendering: The CPU's 50995 multi-core score makes it a strong choice for CPU-based renderers like Blender Cycles. The GPU's 13.17 TFLOPS FP32 will accelerate GPU-based renderers, but the 8 GB VRAM limits scene complexity.

Software development: The CPU's PassMark integer math score of 212,644 and data compression score of 803,368 indicate fast compilation and large project handling. The GPU is irrelevant for most development tasks, making this pairing efficient for developers who also game.

Student and office work: This pairing is overkill for typical office applications, but the CPU's 96th percentile ensures snappy responsiveness in spreadsheets, document editing, and web research. The GPU's modest performance is more than sufficient for these tasks.

Gaming Performance

No measured FPS data exists for this exact CPU and GPU combination. The FACT PACK contains no rows in the measuredFpsUltraByGame field, and the dataIsMeasured flag is false. All frame rate discussions are therefore estimates based on benchmark scores.

The RTX 5050's 3DMark Steel Nomad score of 2,502 positions it as a capable 1080p gaming GPU. In modern titles at ultra settings, frame rates would likely range from 60 to 100 FPS depending on the game's optimization. The GPU's 8 GB VRAM may become a limitation in texture-heavy titles at higher resolutions. At 1440p, users should expect to lower settings to high or medium to maintain playable frame rates. The CPU's high single-core score of 7,199 in Cinebench R23 ensures that the system will not be CPU-bound at any resolution, so the GPU will be the sole determinant of frame rates.

The PassMark DirectX 11 score of 150 and DirectX 12 score of 66 are difficult to interpret without reference points, but the 3DMark score is more indicative of real-world gaming performance. The GPU's 66th percentile ranking among all GPUs suggests it sits above the median but below high-end parts. For competitive gaming at 1080p with competitive settings, the GPU should deliver high frame rates. For single-player titles with demanding graphics, users will need to balance quality and performance.

Build Overview

This is a desktop build pairing the Intel Core i9-14900KS with the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050. The CPU is a 24-core, 32-thread processor at the 96th percentile, while the GPU is an 8 GB card at the 66th percentile. The combined percentile is 81, which reflects a system that is strong overall but with a significant performance gap between the two components.

The i9-14900KS is an enthusiast-class CPU with a 6.20 GHz boost clock and a 150 W TDP. The RTX 5050 is a mid-range GPU with a 130 W TDP and a 300 W suggested PSU. This pairing is unusual in that the CPU is far more powerful than the GPU, making the system ideal for CPU-bound workloads rather than graphics-intensive gaming.

The build class is desktop, and the platform uses Intel Socket 1700 with DDR4/DDR5 memory support and PCIe Gen 5. The system is active in production for both components, meaning replacements and upgrades are available. The launch MSRP for the CPU is $689, and the GPU's launch MSRP is 249 USD.

Who Should Build It

This system targets users who need exceptional CPU performance and are willing to accept a mid-range GPU. Gamers at 1080p will find the RTX 5050 adequate for most titles, while the CPU ensures high minimum frame rates and smooth gameplay. Competitive gamers who prioritize frame rates over visual fidelity will benefit from the CPU's strong single-core performance.

Content creators working in video editing or 3D rendering will see dramatic speedups in CPU-bound tasks. The Cinebench R23 multi-core score of 50,995 and PassMark multi-thread score of 60,012 indicate the CPU can handle long renders and exports without breaking a sweat. The GPU's compute capability (9,184 in PassMark GPU compute) provides some acceleration, but the CPU is the primary workhorse.

Software developers will appreciate the fast compilation times and the CPU's data compression score of 803,368, which speeds up large repository clones and build artifact handling. Students and small business users will find this system far more powerful than needed for office work, but the headroom ensures longevity and responsiveness.

Users who plan to upgrade the GPU later will find this a solid foundation. The CPU's 96th percentile means it will not become obsolete quickly, and the platform's PCIe Gen 5 support accommodates future graphics cards.

GPU Analysis

The NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5050 is built on the Blackwell 2.0 architecture, using the GB207 chip manufactured on TSMC's 5 nm process. The chip contains 16,900 million transistors on a 149 mm² die, giving a transistor density of 113.4 million per mm². The GPU has 2,560 shading units, 80 texture mapping units, and 32 raster operation pipelines. It includes 20 ray tracing cores and 80 tensor cores, providing hardware support for DirectX Raytracing and AI-accelerated features.

The memory subsystem consists of 8 GB of GDDR6 on a 128-bit bus, yielding a bandwidth of 320.0 GB/s. The memory clock is 2500 MHz, with an effective rate of 20 Gbps. This bandwidth is modest by modern standards, which will limit performance in memory-heavy workloads like high-resolution textures or large compute tasks.

The base clock is 2317 MHz, and the boost clock is 2572 MHz. The pixel rate is 82.30 GPixel/s, and the texture rate is 205.8 GTexel/s. The FP32 performance is 13.17 TFLOPS, with FP16 at 13.17 TFLOPS as well, indicating a 1:1 ratio. This is notable because some GPUs halve FP16 throughput.

The GPU supports DirectX 12 Ultimate (12_2), OpenGL 4.6, and Vulkan 1.4. Display outputs include one HDMI 2.1b and three DisplayPort 2.1b, supporting modern high-refresh and high-resolution monitors. The bus interface is PCIe 5.0 x8, which provides ample bandwidth for the GPU's needs.

Benchmark results show the GPU at the 66th percentile, with a 3DMark Steel Nomad score of 2,502 and a PassMark G3D score of 17,326. The Geekbench OpenCL score of 90,334 and Vulkan score of 89,381 indicate balanced compute performance across APIs. The GPU's nearest rival, the AMD Radeon RX 5600 XT, is 1.6% slower, placing the RTX 5050 in a competitive mid-range position. The 8 GB VRAM is a potential limitation for future titles, but for current games at 1080p, it is sufficient.