Intel unveils Core i9-10850K: 10-core under-flagship to compete with Ryzen 9 3900X
Intel has unveiled a new “near-flagship” ten-core desktop processor called the Core i9-10850K. The preparation of the new product became known not so long ago, but it immediately became clear that it would be a slightly more affordable alternative to the flagship ten-core Core i9-10900K.
The Core i9-10850K processor differs from its “big brother” by its clock frequencies reduced by 100 MHz. As a result, the base frequency of the new product is 3.6 GHz, and the maximum automatic overclocking frequency for one core in the Thermal Velocity Boost mode reaches 5.2 GHz. All ten cores in the same mode are capable of automatically overclocking up to 4.8 GHz. The suffix “K” in the name indicates that the novelty has a free multiplier, that is, amenable to manual overclocking.
Despite the decrease in frequency, the TDP level remained the same – 125 W. This level of consumption, we note, is typical for work with the base frequency. With the most intensive overclocking, the chip is able to demand twice as much – up to 250 watts. The Core i9-10850K processor, like other members of the Comet Lake-S family, is made in an LGA 1200 package and is compatible with motherboards based on Intel 400 series chipsets.
Reducing the clock speed has also resulted in lower costs. The recommended price for the Core i9-10850K is $ 453, which is $ 35 (or almost 7.2%) cheaper than the flagship Core i9-10900K. This makes the new product a more attractive choice for those who are not chasing every megahertz or who believe in their overclocking powers.
In addition, the withdrawal of the Core i9-10850K solves another urgent task: a processor appears in Intel’s assortment that can compete more convincingly with the 12-core Ryzen 9 3900X, which is currently sold in stores for about $ 430.
