Intel announces Core i9-9900KS Special Edition processor

Intel Core i9 Processor
Intel Core i9 Processor (Image credit: Intel)

What you need to know

  • 9th Gen Intel Core i9-990KS Special Edition processor.
  • The processor has a base clock speed of up to 4.0 GHz and an all-core turbo frequency of up to 5.0 GHz.
  • The processor will be available starting October 30 for a recommended customer price starting at $513.

Intel announced the 9th Gen Intel Core i9-990KS Special Edition processor today. Intel states that the processor is for the "ultimate gaming experience." It boasts impressive specs and is based on the 9th Gen Intel Core i9-9900K architecture. The processor will be available starting October 30 for a recommended customer price starting at $513.

The processor is unlocked and boasts eight cores, 16 threads, and up to 4.0 GHz base frequency. It also has up to 40 platform PCIe lanes for gaming and overclocking, clearing the way for a plethora of accessories and enhancements.

The core features and capabilities of the processor are outlined in an Intel news post.

  • Up to 5.0 GHz all-core turbo frequency; up to 4.0 GHz base frequency, which allow games to run faster when they scale across more cores for higher frame rate
  • Eight cores, 16 threads, 127W TDP, 16 MB Intel Smart Cache, and up to 40 platform PCIe lanes
  • Compatible with existing Z390 motherboards
  • Up to 27 [percent] faster mega-tasking when you simultaneously game, stream and record compared with a 3-year-old PC
  • Up to 35 [percent] more frames per second compared with a 3-year-old PC
  • Up to 17 [percent] faster4 4K video editing compared with the previous generation and up to 78 [percent] faster compared with a 3-year-old PC

In the right circumstances, the Intel Core i9-9900KS Special Edition processor can hit up to 5.0 GHz all-core turbo. Intel states that "Only select chips from Intel wafers can achieve this specification to run up to 5.0 GHz all-core turbo."

The processor is aimed at gamers who want to get the most performance they can out of their system. Frank Soqui, Intel vice president and general manager of the Desktop, Workstation and Channel Group, states that the chip is "the world's best gaming desktop processor made even better and created specifically for extreme gamers who want the most performance possible."

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

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_.