Intel is poised to launch its highly anticipated “Arrow Lake-S” desktop CPUs, which will introduce several “non-K” and “F” variants, officially set to be announced at CES 2025. Recently, images and listings of these processors were discovered in China, offering a sneak peek at the upcoming models. This significant development in Intel’s CPU lineup promises to bring enhanced performance and efficiency, catering to a wide range of users, from high-end enthusiasts to mainstream consumers.
Specifications and Configurations
An Overview of Non-K Models
The Arrow Lake-S lineup will include four main non-K SKUs, specifically the Core Ultra 9 285, Ultra 7 265, Ultra 5 245, and Ultra 5 225. The “non-K” designation indicates that these models are not designed for overclocking, making them suitable for users seeking reliable performance without the need for tweaking. The initial images revealed these CPUs in “tray packaging,” typically used by system integrators who build customized PCs. These pictures also indicate that these chips are in the engineering sample phase, suggesting they are close to final production.
The Core Ultra 9 285, the flagship of the non-K lineup, boasts a 24-core configuration with 8 Performance (P) cores and 16 Efficient (E) cores, offering a diverse core mix to handle various workloads effectively. This model has a maximum Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 65W and can achieve boost clocks of up to 5.6 GHz. Meanwhile, the Core Ultra 7 265, aimed at slightly less demanding users, features a 20-core setup, with 8 P-cores and 12 E-cores, a 65W TDP, and a boost clock speed of up to 5.3 GHz.
Mid-range options within the non-K series include the Core Ultra 5 245 and Core Ultra 5 225. The Core Ultra 5 245 delivers a balanced 6 P-core and 8 E-core configuration, a 65W TDP, and can achieve boost clocks up to 5.1 GHz. Meanwhile, the Core Ultra 5 225 is slightly less powerful, with a 6 P-core and 4 E-core configuration, a 64W TDP, and boost clocks of up to 4.9 GHz. These models are designed to provide adequate performance for everyday tasks and moderate computing needs.
Details about F Variants
In addition to the non-K models, Intel is introducing “F” variants for the Arrow Lake-S lineup. “F” models typically lack integrated graphics, appealing to users who utilize dedicated graphics cards and do not require the extra cost associated with integrated solutions. Recently surfaced in China’s retail channels, these variants include the Core Ultra 5 230F and Core Ultra 7 265F. The Core Ultra 5 230F is noted to be exclusive to Chinese markets, broadening the Arrow Lake-S series’ reach in that region.
The Core Ultra 7 265F shares many similarities with its non-F counterpart, offering the same 20-core configuration (8 P-cores and 12 E-cores) and maintaining the 65W TDP. This model is designed for users who seek high-performance computing with the added benefit of an external GPU. On the other hand, the Core Ultra 5 230F has not been detailed as extensively, but it is expected to offer a competitive feature set tailored for users relying on discrete graphics cards, maintaining optimal performance where integrated graphics are redundant.
Users in the Chinese market will find this exclusive option particularly valuable, as it aligns with local preferences for custom-built systems with dedicated GPUs. This variant’s introduction demonstrates Intel’s tailored approach to different market needs. The official details about these “F” variants will be further clarified in the upcoming CES 2025 keynote, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of their capabilities and positioning within the broader CPU lineup.
Waiting for CES 2025: Anticipations and Expectations
Launch Events at CES 2025
The lifecycle of Intel’s Arrow Lake-S series will reach a critical milestone at CES 2025, where the company is set to unveil these CPUs officially. The event, scheduled for January 13, is expected to provide in-depth presentations about each model’s specifications, performance benchmarks, and targeted user segments. This launch aligns with Intel’s tradition of using CES as a prominent platform to showcase its latest technological advancements and innovations.
CES 2025 will serve not only as the official announcement for the Arrow Lake-S CPUs but also as a stage to highlight Intel’s advancements in processor architecture, leveraging enhanced performance and power efficiency. The promise of improved processing speeds, efficient energy consumption, and diverse configurations across the new CPU models showcases Intel’s dedication to meeting the growing demands of varied computing markets. Answering consumer and industry expectations, CES will illuminate how these new processors will impact computing experiences across both consumer and professional spaces.
Concluding Thoughts on Arrow Lake-S
Intel is gearing up to unveil its eagerly awaited “Arrow Lake-S” desktop CPUs, marking an important milestone in its product lineup. These processors, which will include several “non-K” and “F” variants, are officially scheduled for announcement at CES 2025. This upcoming launch has generated significant buzz within the tech community. Recently, images and listings of these new CPUs were found circulating in China, providing an early glimpse of what’s to come.
This launch signifies a major advancement in Intel’s desktop CPU offerings, promising improved performance and efficiency. These enhancements are designed to meet the needs of a broad spectrum of users, ranging from high-end technology enthusiasts to everyday mainstream consumers. As Intel continues to innovate, the introduction of the “Arrow Lake-S” lineup is expected to set new benchmarks in the industry, making it highly anticipated by both consumers and industry experts alike. This development underscores Intel’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge technology that enhances user experiences across various applications and computing needs.