Core Ultra 9 285K
Intel
PassMark
67,482
MSRP
$589
AVG Price
$550
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Core Ultra 9 285K is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 24 October 2024 (1 year ago). It is based on the Arrow Lake-S (2024−2025) architecture. It features 24 cores and 24 threads. Base frequency is 3.7 GHz, with boost up to 5.6 GHz. L3 cache: 36 MB (total). L2 cache: 3 MB (per core). Built on 3 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1851. Thermal design power (TDP): 125 Watt. Memory support: DDR5-6400. Passmark benchmark score: 67,482 points. Launch price was $589.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core Ultra 9 285K
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core Ultra 9 285K across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
League of Legends
Path of Exile 2
Valorant
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core Ultra 9 285K specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core Ultra 9 285K is a 24-core / 24-thread processor based on the Arrow Lake-S (2024−2025) architecture, manufactured on a 3 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 5.6 GHz from a base frequency of 3.7 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 36 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 3 MB (per core) of L2 cache and 192 kB (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 67,482, placing it in the Enthusiast performance tier as a Recent generation product. Geekbench 6 single-core (the most relevant metric for gaming FPS) records 3,200, while multi-core reaches 22,563. Cinebench R23 multi-core (measuring sustained rendering workload performance) scores 45,563.
| Specification | Core Ultra 9 285K |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 24C / 24T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 5.6 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 3.7 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Arrow Lake-S (2024−2025) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 3 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 36 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 3 MB (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 192 kB (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 243 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 17,800 million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 250 MHz |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 67,482 |
| Cinebench R23 MultiSustained multi-core rendering performance | 45,563 |
| Geekbench 6 SingleSingle-core performance — most relevant for gaming | 3,200 |
| Geekbench 6 MultiMulti-core parallel workload performance | 22,563 |
Memory & Platform
The Core Ultra 9 285K fits into the LGA1851 socket and supports PCIe 5.0 with 24 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR5-6400 memory at speeds up to DDR5-6400 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 192 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). It supports ECC memory, providing error-correcting capabilities — essential for mission-critical workloads and servers. Integrated graphics: Intel Arc Graphics 64EU — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core Ultra 9 285K |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1851 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 5.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 24 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR5-6400 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR5-6400 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 192 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | Yes |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel Arc Graphics 64EU |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Z890 |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Advanced Features
It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: true — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads). Its primary market competitor is the Ryzen 9 9950X.
| Specification | Core Ultra 9 285K |
|---|---|
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | true |
| Direct CompetitorMarket equivalent from rival manufacturer | Ryzen 9 9950X |
Power & Cooling
The Core Ultra 9 285K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 125 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed. No stock cooler is included — you will need to purchase an aftermarket cooler separately. Recommended cooling: Liquid (AIO 280mm+).
| Specification | Core Ultra 9 285K |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 125 Watt |
| Included CoolerStock cooler bundled in the box | No |
| Recommended CoolerSuggested aftermarket cooling solution | Liquid (AIO 280mm+) |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $550 (MSRP: $589), the Core Ultra 9 285K delivers 123 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #96 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core Ultra 9 285K |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $589 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $550 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $589 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #96 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 24 October 2024 (1 year ago) |
| Release Year | 2024 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | TSMC |
Similar Performance
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Our Recommendation for Core Ultra 9 285K
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Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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