Intel’s latest P-Core-only “Raptor Lake” CPUs for the LGA 1700 socket are causing quite a stir as they surface online through Chinese third-party retailers. Among these are models like the Core i9-14901KE, a processor that boasts 8 cores and is currently priced at around $420. If you’re on the hunt for a powerful processor, this line-up, starting with 6-core options priced as low as $154 and 8-core options beginning at $280, might catch your interest.
These new CPUs, which include the Core i9 14901E, Core i9 14401E, Core i7 14701E, along with their ‘K’ variants aimed at enthusiasts who enjoy overclocking, were originally designed for embedded systems. Despite this intention, they have found their way onto platforms like Goofish in China, where they’re attracting attention from the desktop DIY community.
Interestingly, the Intel Core i9-14901KE has been spotted on Goofish complete with a CPU-Z screenshot that verifies its specs, proving it’s a genuine P-Core-only model. While not initially intended for widespread consumer use like standard Raptor Lake Refresh chips, these CPUs can be plugged into and removed from any LGA 1700 socket, making them accessible through certain less formal sales channels.
The Core i9-14901KE is noticeable due to its absence of E-cores, instead focusing purely on performance, with all cores being Performance cores. This model is also overclockable, which isn’t the case for its non-K counterpart, the i9 14901E. While Intel hasn’t made complete details available on its official website for the 14901KE, existing information suggests a powerful build. It appears to offer a boost clock speed of up to 5.8 GHz and a base clock of 3.8 GHz, alongside a thermal design power (TDP) of 125W.
A peculiar mention in the CPU-Z window suggests that the Core i9-14901KE runs at a clock speed of only 2.6 GHz with a voltage of 2.176V. This is likely a mistake since further reports indicate much higher operational frequencies and power efficiencies. This discrepancy might arise from an outdated version of CPU-Z being used, as the latest version supports this processor model.
Pricing for these models seems competitive compared to Intel’s standard recommended prices. For example, the Core i5 14401E is available at a considerable reduction, retailing at about $154 while usually valued at $228. Similarly, the Core i9 14701E, typically priced at $392, is offered for about $280, mirroring the competitive pricing strategy seen with the Core i9-14901KE.
These new developments are setting the stage for intriguing possibilities for PC builders and tech enthusiasts looking to maintain a balance between innovative power and cost-effectiveness in their systems. It remains to be seen how Intel’s strategies will evolve as these processors continue to make waves in various markets.
