Intel could limit “Broadwell” LGA1150 CPU family to two chips

Intel Corp.’s code-named “Broadwell” microprocessors are not going to have a long lifespan on any markets since their successors – code-named “Skylake” chips – are ready to hit the market. Moreover, if a new media report is correct, the world’s largest chipmaker plans to limit availability of “Broadwell” CPUs on the desktop market.

Chinese VR-Zone reports that the family of “Broadwell” central processing units for desktops and all-in-one (AIO) personal computers will consist of only five models: three in BGA1364 package that are designed for AIO PCs and two in LGA1150 form-factor for systems powered by mainboards featuring Intel 9-series chipsets.

The new Core i7-5775C (4 cores/8 threads, 3.30GHz/3.80GHz base/turbo frequency, 6MB cache, Iris Pro 6200 graphics core, 65W TDP) and Core i5-5675C (4 cores/4 threads, 3.10GHz/3.60GHz base/turbo frequency, 4MB cache, Iris Pro 6200 graphics core, 65W TDP) will feature unlocked multiplier and will thus support overclocking. Unfortunately, these will be the only “Broadwell” processors for desktops in LGA packaging. Given their low clock-rates, it is obvious that they will not outperform Intel’s Core i7-4790K “Devil’s Canyon” and will even not beat the two years old Core i7-4770K “Haswell”.

It is unknown whether the new CPUs will feature decent overclocking potential. But given their not very high performance out-of-box, it is likely that they will be rather inexpensive.

The reasons why Intel decided to trim the “Broadwell” family for desktops so significantly are completely unclear. Some market rumours indicate that Intel still has issues with high frequencies of chips made using 14nm fabrication process. While this is possible, Intel’s problems would not be limited to frequencies and the company would have to reconsider its strategies about the code-named “Broadwell-E”, “Broadwell-EP” and well as “Skylake” chips.

Intel did not comment on the news-story.

Discuss on our Facebook page, HERE.

KitGuru Says: While it is truly regrettable that we are not going to see high-performance “Broadwell” processors for desktops, if Intel’s Core i7-5775C and Core i5-5675C carry appropriate (i.e., affordable) price tags, then it will not be that bad. They will expand Intel’s family of chips for enthusiasts who need overclocking capabilities and some people will be able to save money on CPUs.

Become a Patron!