New Intel CPU LineUp – Intel Core and Intel Core Ultra (Series 2) Architectures, Branding & Features
As Intel continues to push forward with its processor roadmap, it’s easy to get lost in the swirl of codenames, model numbers, and architectural shifts. With the introduction of Intel Core & Intel Core Ultra branding, AI accelerators, and disaggregated multi-chip modules (MCMs), Intel’s recent CPUs represent a massive leap from the more traditional designs of the past.
This blog breaks it all down—from 13th Gen Raptor Lake to the latest Core Ultra Series 2, and everything in between. I also recommend to keep in mind the fact about Raptor Lake CPUs that suffered issues with permanent damage from elevated voltage due to a vulnerable clock tree circuit, resulting in instability.
- Raptor Lake and Raptor Lake Refresh maintain traditional architecture but offer strong performance for mainstream and gaming users. The 14th generation Raptor Lake Refresh is the last processor family to use the old “Core i” branding scheme.
- Meteor Lake introduces a radical change with chiplet architecture and built-in AI acceleration.
- Arrow Lake expands this chip design to both mobile and desktop with enhanced performance.
- Lunar Lake focuses on AI performance and battery efficiency, ideal for ultra-portables.
- The Neural Processing Unit (NPU) is a newer addition to modern devices and plays a key role in handling tasks related to artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning
Intel’s CPU Evolution at a Glance
🔹 13th Gen – Raptor Lake
- Released: 2022
- Architecture: Monolithic
- Branding: Intel Core (e.g., i9-13900K)
- Cores: Up to 8P + 16E = 24 cores
- Process Node: Intel 7
- AI Engine (NPU): ❌ Not included
- Target: High-performance desktops and laptops
14th Gen – Raptor Lake Refresh (Core HX)
- Released: 2023
- Branding: Intel Core HX (e.g., i9-14900HX)
- Improvements: Slight performance boost over 13th Gen
- AI Engine (NPU): ❌ Not included
- Target: Gaming / Creator laptops
- Notable SKU Update: Core i7-14700K received additional E-cores
Meteor Lake – Core Ultra Series 1
- Released: December 14, 2023
- Branding: Core Ultra 100 Series (e.g., Ultra 7 155H)
- Architecture: First to adopt disaggregated MCM chiplet design
- Process Node: Intel 4 (CPU tile)
- Core Setup: 6P + 8E + 2 LP-E = 16 cores
- AI Engine (NPU): ✅ Gen 1 NPU
- Graphics: Improved integrated Xe-LPG GPU
- Use Case: Thin-and-light laptops and AI PCs
Arrow Lake – Core Ultra Series 2 (200H/S)
- Released: October 24, 2024
- Branding: Core Ultra 200H (e.g., Ultra 9 285H), 200S for desktop (e.g., Ultra 9 285K)
- Architecture: Continuation of MCM, featuring Lion Cove P-cores and Skymont E-cores
- Process Node: Intel 20A
- AI Engine: ✅ Gen 1.5 (13 TOPS)
- Use Case: Performance laptops and socketable desktops
Lunar Lake – Core Ultra Series 2 (200V)
- Released: September 2024
- Branding: Core Ultra 200V (e.g., Ultra 7 258V)
- Architecture: MCM, like Meteor Lake
- Process Node: Intel 18A
- AI Engine: ✅ Gen 2 NPU
- Target: Ultra-portable AI-focused laptops
- Note: Optimized for battery life and mobile AI applications
Intel CPU Comparison Table (13th Gen to Core Ultra Series)
| Gen / Series | Codename | Branding | Sample CPU | NPU | Max Core Config | Max Turbo Clock | Target Devices |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 13th Gen | Raptor Lake | Intel Core | i9-13900K | ❌ | 8P + 16E = 24 | 5.8 GHz | Desktops / Performance Laptops |
| 14th Gen | Raptor Lake Refresh | Intel Core HX | i9-14900HX | ❌ | 8P + 16E = 24 | 5.8 GHz | Gaming / Creator Laptops |
| Series 1 | Meteor Lake | Core Ultra 100 | Ultra 7 155H | ✅ | 6P + 8E + 2 LP-E = 16 | 5.0 GHz | Mobile / AI PCs |
| Series 2 | Arrow Lake-H | Core Ultra 200H | Ultra 9 285H | ✅ | 6P + 8E + 2 LP-E = 16 | 2.9 GHz base, est. 5.1 GHz turbo | Performance Laptops |
| Series 2 | Arrow Lake-S | Core Ultra 200S | Ultra 9 285K | ✅ | 8P + 16E = 24 | 5.3+ GHz (est.) | Desktop PCs |
| Series 2 | Lunar Lake | Core Ultra 200V | Ultra 7 258V | ✅ | TBD – efficiency focused | ~4.8–5.0 GHz (est.) | Ultraportables / AI PCs |
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