Intel Core i9 9900KS vs Intel Core Ultra 5 135U: The Battle of the CPUs

Choosing the right CPU for your needs can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’ll be diving into a head-to-head comparison of two prominent processors: the Intel Core i9 9900KS and the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U. These CPUs represent different ends of the spectrum, catering to distinct user profiles. The Intel Core i9 9900KS is a desktop behemoth designed for high-performance computing, while the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U is a power-efficient chip crafted for ultra-thin laptops.
This blog post will explore the key differences between these processors, analyzing their strengths, weaknesses, and ideal use cases. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of which CPU best aligns with your specific requirements.

Core i9 9900KS: A Desktop Powerhouse

The Intel Core i9 9900KS is a flagship desktop processor released in 2019. It boasts an impressive 8-core, 16-thread configuration, capable of reaching a clock speed of up to 5.0 GHz with its Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0. This chip is designed for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, 3D rendering, and content creation.
Strengths of the Core i9 9900KS:

• Exceptional performance: The 9900KS delivers unparalleled performance, thanks to its high clock speeds and robust core count.
• Overclocking potential: This processor is known for its impressive overclocking potential, allowing users to push its performance even further.
• Robust platform: The 9900KS is built on the mature and reliable Intel Z390 chipset, offering a wide range of features and compatibility.

Weaknesses of the Core i9 9900KS:

• High power consumption: The 9900KS is a power-hungry chip, requiring a robust power supply and efficient cooling solution.
• Limited upgrade path: As a 9th generation processor, the 9900KS is nearing the end of its lifecycle.
• No integrated graphics: This processor lacks integrated graphics, requiring a dedicated graphics card for display output.

Core Ultra 5 135U: A Mobile Power Saver

The Intel Core Ultra 5 135U is a recent addition to Intel’s mobile processor lineup, released in 2023. This chip is a 10-core, 12-thread processor with a base clock speed of 1.3 GHz and a boost clock speed of up to 4.7 GHz. It’s specifically designed for ultra-thin laptops, prioritizing power efficiency and long battery life.
Strengths of the Core Ultra 5 135U:

• Impressive power efficiency: The 135U boasts excellent power efficiency, making it ideal for devices with limited battery capacity.
• Integrated graphics: The 135U features integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, providing decent performance for everyday tasks and casual gaming.
• Compact design: This chip is designed for ultra-thin and lightweight laptops, making it perfect for on-the-go computing.

Weaknesses of the Core Ultra 5 135U:

• Lower performance than the 9900KS: The 135U delivers significantly lower performance than the 9900KS, especially in demanding applications.
• Limited overclocking potential: The 135U lacks traditional overclocking capabilities, limiting its performance potential.
• Limited platform: The 135U is part of a new platform, which might limit its compatibility with older peripherals and software.

Use Case Comparison: Finding the Right Fit

The choice between the Intel Core i9 9900KS and the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U ultimately boils down to your specific needs and priorities.

• For gamers, creators, and professionals: The Core i9 9900KS is the clear winner. Its raw performance and overclocking potential make it ideal for demanding tasks like gaming, video editing, 3D rendering, and software development.

• For students, casual users, and mobile professionals: The Core Ultra 5 135U is an excellent choice. Its power efficiency, integrated graphics, and compact design make it perfect for everyday tasks, web browsing, and light productivity.

Performance Benchmark: A Quantitative Comparison

While subjective impressions are valuable, it’s crucial to analyze objective performance benchmarks. In general, the Intel Core i9 9900KS outperforms the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U in almost every benchmark, particularly in CPU-intensive tasks.

• Cinebench R23: The 9900KS scores significantly higher in both single-core and multi-core tests, demonstrating its superior processing power.
• Geekbench 5: The 9900KS delivers a substantial lead in both single-core and multi-core scores, highlighting its overall performance dominance.
• 3DMark Time Spy: Although the 135U features integrated graphics, the 9900KS paired with a dedicated graphics card will deliver significantly higher performance in gaming and graphics-intensive applications.

Price Comparison: Balancing Performance and Budget

The price difference between these two processors is significant. The Intel Core i9 9900KS is a high-end processor, commanding a premium price. On the other hand, the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U is a more affordable option, making it a compelling choice for budget-conscious users.

• The 9900KS: This processor is now a legacy product, but it’s still available on the market. You can expect to find it at a discounted price, but it’s still a significant investment.

• The 135U: This chip is designed for budget-friendly laptops, making it an attractive option for users seeking a balance between performance and affordability.

Future-Proofing: Considering the Long-Term Perspective

While the Intel Core i9 9900KS is a powerful processor, it’s important to consider its limited upgrade path. As a 9th generation chip, it’s nearing the end of its lifecycle. In contrast, the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U is part of a new architecture, offering a longer lifespan and potential for future upgrades.

Wrap-Up: Choosing the Right Tool for the Job

Both the Intel Core i9 9900KS and the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U are excellent processors, but they cater to different needs and priorities. Choosing the “better” CPU depends entirely on your specific use case and budget.

• For demanding tasks and high-performance computing: The Core i9 9900KS is the clear choice. Its raw power and overclocking potential make it ideal for gamers, creators, and professionals.

• For everyday tasks, portability, and power efficiency: The Core Ultra 5 135U is a compelling option. Its compact design, integrated graphics, and affordable price make it perfect for students, casual users, and mobile professionals.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. Is the Intel Core i9 9900KS still relevant in 2023?
While the 9900KS is a powerful processor, it’s important to consider its age and limited upgrade path. Newer processors offer better performance and features. However, if you can find a good deal on a 9900KS, it’s still a capable chip for demanding tasks.
2. Can I upgrade the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U?
The 135U is a soldered processor, meaning it cannot be upgraded. However, the platform it’s based on is relatively new, offering potential for future upgrades through software updates and driver improvements.
3. What is the difference between the Intel Core i9 9900KS and the Intel Core i9 13900K?
The 13900K is a newer and more powerful processor than the 9900KS. It offers a higher core count, faster clock speeds, and support for newer technologies like DDR5 memory.
4. Is the Intel Core Ultra 5 135U suitable for gaming?
The 135U features integrated graphics, which can handle casual gaming at low settings. However, for serious gaming, a dedicated graphics card is recommended.
5. What are the best motherboards for the Intel Core i9 9900KS?
The 9900KS is compatible with Intel Z390 motherboards. Some popular choices include the ASUS ROG Maximus XI Hero, Gigabyte Aorus Master, and MSI MEG Z390 Godlike.