Intel Nova Lake-S: probably with a huge spread of prices

Probably with a huge range of prices

Videocardz has reportedly uncovered exclusive details about Intel Nova Lake-S processors, which are expected to arrive either towards the end of this year or early next year. This time, the leak is said to include more granular information about how the different dies are configured, and even a clearer picture of the intended product line-up.

Intel Nova Lake-S die configurations and chiplet design

Nova Lake is described as a major departure from what Intel has done previously for consumer CPUs, with the biggest shift being the processors’ internal layout and configuration.

It is claimed there will be five separate die variants-something Intel has never offered before in its consumer CPU range. More broadly, having five different dies within a single family is highly unusual.

The following die configurations are expected:

• 4+0
• 4+8
• 8+16
• 8+16+bLLC
• 2х(8+16+bLLC)

In every case, there will also be four LP cores located on another chiplet, alongside NPU6 and an iGPU featuring two Xe3 cores.

Expected model range, Core Ultra tiers, and HEDT positioning

As for naming, no official model titles are mentioned yet, but the anticipated configurations are already known.

The range is expected to be extensive, as the maximum core count would be more than double what Intel currently offers. It is also noted that a higher tier within the line does not necessarily equate to a higher number of cores.

Particular attention is drawn to two top-end models with 44 and 52 cores, which would sit above Core Ultra 9. There is no confirmed name for these parts, though they could be called Core Ultra X, and would be positioned not as standard consumer CPUs but as HEDT-class models. In effect, that would mean two distinct processor classes within the single Nova Lake-S family-an odd arrangement on the face of it, but more understandable given the exceptionally high core counts at the top.

These flagship processors are also expected to stand out through noticeably higher power consumption, which would be consistent with their positioning.

A sizeable gap is also apparent between a 28-core Core Ultra 9 and the two highest-end models. In practical terms, that implies that for most mainstream users the new line-up may resemble previous Intel generations: a maximum of 8 big cores and 16 small cores, with the addition that four LP cores would be present in any configuration.

Platform features: PCIe 5.0, Thunderbolt 5, DDR5-8000, and the new socket

Beyond core configurations, the leak highlights 24 PCIe 5.0 lanes, a Thunderbolt 5 controller supporting two ports, DDR5-8000 support, and support for CUDIMM and CSODIMM.

The source also says Intel is emphasising that the new socket will support subsequent processor generations, although it remains unclear how many. Historically, Intel has tended to be less generous here than AMD.