Intel's Nova Lake-based Ryzen X3D equivalent to launch with 28 CPU cores

A previous leak showed us six Intel Nova Lake desktop CPUs, with the top-spec Core Ultra 9 variant sporting a total of 52 CPU cores (16P + 32E + 4 LPE). Some models would get AMD-like 3D V-cache, but it would arrive in the form of an extra layer of Last-Level Cache. Unfortunately, not all models will get it, according to X leaker OneRaichu.

The only Intel Nova Lake CPU to get bLLC will be the SKU with 8P cores and 16E cores, which, according to the above-mentioned leak, corresponds to the Core Ultra 5 445K. Another X leaker, @Haze2K1 (H/T Videocardz), says the Core Ultra 5 435K with 8 P and 12 E-cores will also get bLLC. The CPU names mentioned are tentative and might change closer to launch.

In a way, this is similar to AMD's approach with the Ryzen 7 5800X3D. It will make for an ideal testing ground for bLLC design while leaving the better-specced Core i7 and Core i9 chips alone. Raichu adds the Core Ultra 5 245K might launch first. A quarter later, the Core Ultra 7/9 models are expected to follow suit.

Alongside the new Coyote Cove P-cores and Arctic Wolf E-cores, as well as bLLC for enhanced gaming performance, Intel Nova Lake desktop chips are expected to arrive with a new NPU. Notably, its CPU tile will be manufactured on TSMC's N2 node, rather than Intel's own 18A node. Other parts, such as the GPU tile, IOD and IMC, will be made on last-gen Intel and TSMC nodes.