The flagship Core i9-13900KS “Raptor Lake” desktop processor was officially introduced by Intel today. With an MSRP of USD $700, the i9-13900KS replaces the $590 i9-13900K as the most expensive 13th Gen Core desktop component available. With higher clock speeds and power constraints than the i9-13900K, the i9-13900KS has the same 8P+16E core layout. It is the first CPU in the world to reach a maximum boost frequency of 6 GHz, up from the i9-139005.80 K’s GHz. An improvement in multi-threaded boost-frequency spread is made possible by increased power restrictions, which are supported by the Adaptive Boost Technology carried over from the i9-12900KS of the previous generation.

In contrast to the i9-139003.00/5.80 K’s GHz P-cores, the 8 “Raptor Cove” P-cores of the i9-13900KS are clocked at 3.00 GHz base with up to 6.00 GHz boost, while the E-core frequencies remain unchanged at 2.20 GHz base and up to 4.30 GHz boost. While the maximum turbo power value remains at 253 W, Intel has modified how its power headroom is used to provide higher boost frequency dispersion among the P-cores. The main change is the processor base power value, which has been increased from 125 W to 150 W. The few publications that have reviewed this processor today using processors obtained from reputable retailers report increased power consumption and the need for substantial aftermarket cooling solutions even at stock frequencies, suggesting that Intel hasn’t sampled tech publications with this processor. For people who are knowledgeable about overclocking and capable of handling extreme cooling solutions, the i9-13900KS is being presented as a chip that is conducive to doing so.