Intel has just launched what it claims to be the world's fastest desktop processor, the 12th Gen Core i9-12900KS. As the name suggests, it's heavily based on the i9-12900K but comes with slightly higher clock speeds, capable of hitting a 5.5 GHz max turbo frequency.

Featuring 16x cores (8x E-cores and 8x P-cores) and 24x threads, the new Intel Core i9-12900KS promises to provide the ultimate gaming experience by using Intel Thermal Velocity Boost (TVB) to max out single/dual-core operation. In addition, it will also employ Adaptive Boost Technology (ABT) to hit higher multi-core turbo frequencies than the standard i9-12900K.

Like the other i9 desktop CPUs, it packs 30MB Intel Smart Cache and 14MB of L2 cache. Moreover, it features Intel's HD 770 iGPU, a 150W PBP (MTP still unconfirmed), and PCIe Gen 5.0/4.0 and DDR5/4 (motherboard dependent) support. Lastly, it will come unlocked, meaning enthusiasts can freely overclock the chip.

Intel stated its new flagship mainstream processor will release worldwide on April 5th for $739. To learn more about the Intel Core i9-12900KS, you can visit its official product page.

Update 8/4/22: The i9-12900KS is now on sale for £749.99 from Overclockers UK HERE.

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KitGuru says: Contrary to the rumours, the new Intel Core i9 CPU is $60 cheaper than expected. Still, that's $150 over the i9-12900K's MSRP. Do you think the extra money is worth the slightly higher clock frequencies? 

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