After a long while since the release of the Core i7 line of processors, Intel announced its next generation of Core i9 X-Series Processors along with upgraded versions of Core i5 and Core i7 lines. They feature an increased number of cores with support for HyperThreading in some of them. Starting with the basic 4 Core, 8 Thread combination, Intel takes things up steadily with the Extreme edition of the Core i9 being a beast that takes the CPU core count to 18 cores with support for 36 threads.

The processors are being offered as part of two separate line of CPUs. The Kaby-Lake-X-Series of CPUs are a combination of Core i5 and Core i7 Processors whereas the Skylake-X-Series of CPUs offer Core i7 and Core i9 versions. These differ in their thread counts, cache sizes, HyperThreading support, clock speeds and several other parameters.

A summary of different Intel X Series CPUs

The CPUs start from around the $250 range and go all the way up to $1,999. Intel emphasizes that these are more targeted for the enthusiasts with interests in 4K & 360 degree video and Virtual Reality.

This marks the first time in a decade or so that Intel is introducing a brand new Core iX model after the original Core i7’s debut back in 2008. To compare the different CPUs, visit Intel’s Page here.