Intel’s 12th Gen Core i9-12900KS launches on April 5, promises next-level performance
Intel’s upcoming Core i9-12900KS could be the world’s fastest desktop processor.
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
What you need to know
Intel will hold an event on April 5 and on that same day will launch the 12th Gen Core i9-12900KS CPU. The new chip enables up to 5.5GHz max turbo frequency and is being advertised as the fastest desktop processor consumers can buy. The chipmakerconfirmed the specs and pricingfor the Core i9-12900KS, which will launch on April 5, 2022, starting at $739.
Specifically, Intel calls its new flagship CPU the “world’s fastest desktop processor.” If the chip lives up to Intel’s expectations in real-world usage, it should be one of thebest CPUs.
The Core i9-12900KS will feature eight P cores (performance cores) running at 5.2GHz and eight E cores (efficiency cores) running at 4.0GHz. Those figures beat out theIntel Core i9-12900Kby a small margin. The chip will also support Intel Adaptive Boost Technology.
Here are the key specs of the new processor from Intel:
A retail listing for the Core i9-12900KSbriefly appeared on Newegg, though it has since been taken down. One lucky PC builder claims tohave already received the new CPU, even though it doesn’t officially launch until next month.
Join us as we build 4 PCs with industry experts and talk about the 12th Gen processor family features and its newest member!📅 April 5, 2022⌚ 12PM PT & 3PM ETTune in here:https://t.co/c2XGOm9PJCpic.twitter.com/Cs2Gl9oVQrJoin us as we build 4 PCs with industry experts and talk about the 12th Gen processor family features and its newest member!📅 April 5, 2022⌚ 12PM PT & 3PM ETTune in here:https://t.co/c2XGOm9PJCpic.twitter.com/Cs2Gl9oVQr— Intel Technology (@IntelTech)March 26, 2022March 26, 2022
The Intel Tech Event kicks off at 12PM PT (3PM ET) on April 5, 2022. You can watch it onIntel’s Twitch channel.
Get the Windows Central Newsletter
All the latest news, reviews, and guides for Windows and Xbox diehards.
Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
