Intel reportedly preparing high-cache CPUs to combat Ryzen X3D

Intel is reportedly preparing two mid-range 22-core “Nova Lake-S” desktop processors, each with a massive 108MB of “bLLC” cache to boost gaming performance. These upcoming models are claimed to be part of the Core Ultra 5 400S processor family.

According to Jaykhin (via VideoCardz), both configurations use a single compute die design for mid-range gaming systems. The 22-core architecture features 6 “Coyote Cove” performance cores, 12 “Arctic Wolf” efficiency cores, and 4 low-power efficiency (LPE) cores. Intel aims to combine updated core microarchitectures with its new Last Level Cache layer to mitigate latency-sensitive workloads like gaming, mimicking AMD's Ryzen X3D.

The report indicates power limits and multiplier support separate the two models, meaning they aren't completely identical. One variant lands as an unlocked 125W TDP processor under the overclockable “K” series banner, while the second model operates with a locked 65W base TDP.

Broader details regarding the supporting Z9x0 desktop platform reveal that the new LGA-1954 socket can accommodate up to 52 cores. Early rumours suggest that high-end dual-tile configurations could draw up to 474W in PL2 mode.

KitGuru says: Will these new high-cache Intel CPUs take the gaming performance crown back from AMD's Ryzen X3D CPUs? 

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