Intel ks processor

The performance-core and efficient-core base frequencies of the KS are also 200MHz faster than the K variant.

However, the more significant difference is their prices. Take into account how much you can afford to spend and the value of the processor over time. The Ryzen 7000X3D CPUs are expected to be released next month, February 2023.

Finally, now that you have one of the fastest CPUs in the market, why not pair it with the fastest GPU available in this current generation?

However, it's important to keep in mind that in order to unlock this feature, you will require a motherboard capable of supporting an overclocked CPU, along with a high-performance liquid cooler, such as the CORSAIR All-In-One Liquid CPU Coolers, to dissipate the thermal heat generated by the CPU effectively. And like the KF series, a dedicated graphics card is required in a PC build to have video output.

What about Intel Arrow Lake Core Ultra Series?

It is also worth noting that Intel's Arrow Lake Core Ultra 200 series CPUs, Intel's latest generation of desktop CPUs, have a new naming convention, but the K, KF, etc suffixes remain the same.

FINAL THOUGHTS

When considering an Intel processor, it's important to understand your needs and the differences between the available options.

In fact, it is outperformed (average CPU mark) by the older (13th gen) and cheaper Intel® Core i9-13900K and Intel® Core i9-13900KF, and even by the much cheaper Intel® Core i7-14700K. The KS variant has a higher base power rating of 150W, 25W higher than the K variant. You will need at least a 360mm custom or AIO liquid cooler to tame this beast.

You should be familiar with the BIOS settings of your motherboard, as that's where you'll make the necessary adjustments to both the CPU and motherboard parameters to achieve a stable overclock.

Below we discuss in detail four popular designations: K, KS, KF and F, their strengths and weaknesses, and their target applications.

Intel "K" - processors with an unlocked multiplier

What it means

Processors with the suffix K have an unlocked clock multiplier, which means they can be overclocked (overclocked) beyond their factory settings.

Strengths

• Overclocking capability - for advanced users, increases processor performance beyond standard clocks.
• Higher base clocks and Boost in practice, often a tad higher than standard models without suffix.

Weaknesses

• Requires better-grade cooling - overclocking generates more heat and requires more powerful coolers.
• Often higher power consumption in configurations with overclocking.

Purpose

The ideal choice of gaming and PC enthusiasts who want to maximize the potential of the CPU, especially when combined with powerful cooling and a motherboard with a Z-series chipset.

Intel "KS" - special versions with higher clock rates

What it means

The suffix KS is a special "overclocked selection" of CPUs, usually in top models (generally only in the Core i9 series), which have higher frequencies than the standard K.

Strengths

• Higher factory clocks than the K versions.
• Slightly better performance in single-threaded and multi-threaded tasks.

Weaknesses

• Higher price than standard K.
• Still require solid cooling and often more expensive motherboard.

Purpose

For the most demanding gamers, streamers and professionals who want maximum performance without further manual overclocking.

Intel "KF" - Unlocked, but without integrated graphics

What it means

Processors with the KF designation combine the features of K (unlocked multiplier) with F (no integrated GPU).

Strengths

• Ability to overclock as in K processors.
• Lower price than the counterpart with iGPU, because stripped of GPU lithography costs

Weaknesses

• No integrated graphics - requires a dedicated graphics card for on-screen display.

Purpose

An excellent option gaming and content creators who plan to use a dedicated graphics card anyway and want to save costs without sacrificing overclocking capabilities.

Intel "F" - no integrated graphics

What it means

Processors marked with the letter F do not have integrated graphics (iGPU).

Strengths

• Lower price compared to the counterpart without the F mark.
• Smaller design may generate slightly lower temperatures.

Weaknesses

• Requirement of a dedicated graphics card for system operation.
• Lack of overclocking capabilities (unlike K/KF models).

Purpose

Mainly for systems with a dedicated GPU - such as in gaming kits or workstations with powerful graphics cards, where integrated graphics are not needed.

Completion

Understanding the Intel K, KS, KF and F suffixes helps you consciously select a processor for specific applications - from budget kits with a graphics card, to gaming rigs, to high-performance units for professionals.

What separates the F series from the K and KF is the CPU’s multiplier is locked, meaning you cannot run the processor past its base frequency or advertised speed.

But we know the 7700X is a “better” gaming CPU than the 7950X. That’s only a 200MHz difference. If you go over its thermal limit, you will be unable to squeeze out all that extra power.

So, if your budget allows it, and you can splurge on a top-notch cooling system such as AIO liquid cooling (read more about cooling systems here), then we would definitely recommend spending the extra money to buy an Intel® Core i9-14900KS.

This makes them an excellent option for overclocking, and they are priced lower than the K processors.