Intel Core i9-9900K vs Ryzen 7 2700X and i7-8700K: Review and Benchmarks

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Specifications of the Enter Max Liquid Tech TR4
3. CPU Performance of Intel Core i9-9900K
   • Benchmark Comparison with Intel Core i7-8700K and AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
   • Multithreaded Performance
   • Single Threaded Performance
4. GPU Performance with Gaming Benchmarks
   • Shadow of the Tomb Raider
   • Ashes of the Singularity Escalation
   • GTA 5
5. CPU Compute Performance with Benchmark Tests
   • Blender
   • POV-Ray
6. Value and Price Comparison
   • Cost-effectiveness of Intel Core i9-9900K
   • Comparison with Intel Core i7-8700K and AMD Ryzen 7 2700X
7. Conclusion

👉 Article: Intel Core i9-9900K - The Ultimate Gaming CPU?

The Intel Core i9-9900K, Intel's latest CPU, has been generating quite a buzz in the tech community. With its impressive specifications and high-performance capabilities, it has become a popular choice for gamers and power users alike. In this article, we will dive into the details of the Core i9-9900K and explore its performance, value, and overall appeal.

Introduction

The Core i9-9900K is Intel's flagship CPU in their 9th generation lineup. With eight cores and sixteen Threads, it brings a significant boost in processing power compared to its predecessor, the Core i7-8700K. This extra horsepower opens the door to a new level of gaming performance and multitasking capabilities. However, before we delve into its performance, let's take a closer look at its specifications.

Specifications of the Enter Max Liquid Tech TR4

The Enter Max Liquid Tech TR4 is an all-in-one liquid CPU cooler specifically designed for the Intel Core i9-9900K. It features a massive contact plate made exclusively for the Threadripper CPU, ensuring efficient heat dissipation of up to 500 watts. The cooler is equipped with high-pressure PWM fans that are mounted with Rubber channels on the radiator, effectively absorbing vibrations. The attractive design, including a stylish logo and addressable edge lighting, can be synchronized with your motherboard using the included RGB control box.

CPU Performance of Intel Core i9-9900K

To understand the true potential of the Core i9-9900K, we need to analyze its performance in both gaming and CPU compute tasks. In terms of gaming, the Core i9-9900K stands out as one of the fastest CPUs currently available. Its high clock speed and optimized architecture provide a significant advantage, particularly in single-threaded applications. However, it's important to consider alternative options such as the Intel Core i7-8700K and the AMD Ryzen 7 2700X.

Benchmark Comparison with Intel Core i7-8700K and AMD Ryzen 7 2700X

In benchmark tests like Cinebench, which measure CPU performance in multithreaded applications, the Core i9-9900K outperforms both the Core i7-8700K and the Ryzen 7 2700X. Its eight cores and sixteen threads prove to be highly advantageous, offering superior performance in compute-intensive tasks.

Multithreaded Performance

When it comes to multithreaded tasks such as 3D rendering and video editing, the Core i9-9900K showcases its true potential. It scores over 2000 points in Cinebench's multi-thread test, outperforming the Ryzen 7 2700X by a significant margin. This makes it an excellent choice for users who require exceptional CPU compute power.

Single Threaded Performance

In single-threaded applications, the Core i9-9900K truly shines. With a single core clock speed of 5 GHz and the ability to ramp it down depending on the workload, this CPU delivers exceptional performance. It surpasses both the Core i7-8700K and the Ryzen 7 2700X, boasting a score of over 3000 points in single-threaded Cinebench tests.

GPU Performance with Gaming Benchmarks

While CPUs play a vital role in overall system performance, the GPU is equally important for gaming. We tested the Core i9-9900K's gaming capabilities by benchmarking it with popular titles such as Shadow of the Tomb Raider, Ashes of the Singularity Escalation, and GTA 5.

Shadow of the Tomb Raider

In DirectX 12 mode, Shadow of the Tomb Raider exhibited a clear advantage when paired with the Core i9-9900K. With the GPU being less strained at 1080p resolution, the CPU's single core performance allowed for higher frame rates compared to the Ryzen 7 2700X. However, it's important to note that at higher resolutions, the performance difference would be less noticeable.

Ashes of the Singularity Escalation

The performance margin narrowed in Ashes of the Singularity Escalation, with the Ryzen 7 2700X performing admirably close to the Core i9-9900K. The 2.8% difference in average frames per Second indicates that the 2700X is a viable option for gamers who prioritize value and are willing to compromise slightly on performance.

GTA 5

Another popular Game, GTA 5, demonstrated the Core i9-9900K's superiority with a substantial performance lead. Scoring 164 frames per second, it outperformed both the Core i7-8700K and the Ryzen 7 2700X by a noticeable margin. However, it's crucial to consider that this Scenario specifically highlights differences in CPU performance, which might not be as apparent at higher resolutions.

CPU Compute Performance with Benchmark Tests

To assess CPU compute performance, we conducted benchmark tests using applications such as Blender and POV-Ray.

Blender

Blender, a 3D rendering software, showcased the Core i9-9900K's prowess. It delivered impressive results, outperforming both the Core i7-8700K and the Ryzen 7 2700X. This advantage was also evident in the BMW 27 test, where the 9900K achieved a significantly lower overall time.

POV-Ray

In POV-Ray, a ray tracing software, the Core i9-9900K once again took the lead. Its superior performance enabled it to complete the test significantly faster than both the Core i7-8700K and the Ryzen 7 2700X. This makes it an excellent choice for users who engage in CPU-intensive tasks such as content creation.

Value and Price Comparison

While the Core i9-9900K undoubtedly offers exceptional performance, its price point is a crucial consideration. Currently priced around $530, it falls into the high-end spectrum. In comparison, the Core i7-8700K is available for approximately $370, and the Ryzen 7 2700X can be purchased for around $305.

Cost-effectiveness of Intel Core i9-9900K

When looking at the Core i9-9900K's value proposition, it's important to consider your specific needs. If pricing is not a concern and you prioritize the best overall performance for mixed-use applications, the 9900K is a solid investment. However, if you're on a budget, compromising about 20% of CPU compute performa