Intel's Nova Lake processors near launch

Intel's Nova Lake processors, expected to launch early next year, are showing strong potential based on preliminary results. These processors are anticipated to cover both desktop and laptop PCs, marking a significant step in Intel's next-generation lineup.

Performance leaks reveal strong capabilities

A leak from PassMark PerformanceTest 11.1 software has provided insight into the performance of the upcoming Nova Lake processors. These results suggest that the processors are already nearing completion, with final chips essentially ready for release.

28-core versions show strong single-thread performance

The Nova Lake-S version with 28 cores has shown a notable performance advantage in single-thread tests. According to the leak, this chip scores 5,210 points, surpassing the best of the current Arrow Lake processors by about 3% and the most powerful Raptor Lake Refresh by around 12%.

Multi-threaded performance lags behind top competitors

In multi-threaded tests, the Nova Lake-S 28-core chip scores 61,509 points, which is ahead of the Core i9-14900KF but still behind the Core Ultra 9 285K and the Ryzen 9 9950X3D. This indicates that while the new processors are strong, they may not yet outperform the best current offerings in multi-threaded tasks.

Embedded platform variants and future launch

The leak also mentions the presence of Nova Lake-S 8-core variants labeled as "embedded platform," suggesting they may be used in specialized configurations. Intel is expected to officially present the Nova Lake range at the CES 2027 event in Las Vegas, with a planned launch during the first quarter of next year.