Intel Nova Lake Leaked: 28 Cores and 144 MB Cache Could Be Coming

New leaks have revealed potentially significant details about Intel's next-generation Nova Lake-S desktop processor lineup. According to a leaked model list, Intel is preparing processors for its upcoming Core Ultra 400 series with up to 28 cores and as much as 144 MB of cache.

Although Intel has not officially confirmed these specifications, the reports suggest that the company could be making significant changes to its desktop processor architecture, particularly for high-performance computers and gaming systems. One of the most interesting rumored features is a cache technology that could compete with AMD's 3D V-Cache approach, which has become a major selling point of its gaming processors.

Intel Nova Lake-S Could Feature Up to 28 Cores

The leaked list reportedly includes seven desktop processor models from Intel's Core Ultra 400 family. At the top of the lineup is the Core Ultra 9 4970K BFC, which is said to feature a total of 28 cores.

The rumored core configuration is as follows:

• 8 performance cores (P-Cores)

• 16 efficiency cores (E-Cores)

• 4 low-power efficiency cores (LP-E-Cores)

This hybrid architecture could allow the processor to distribute workloads across different core types. Performance cores would handle demanding tasks, while efficiency cores could help with multitasking and background workloads.

Other models reportedly listed in the leak include the Core Ultra 9 4950K, Core Ultra 7 4870K BFC and Core Ultra 5 4650K. This suggests that Intel may be preparing processors for several performance segments rather than focusing exclusively on flagship models.

However, these model names and specifications remain unconfirmed.

Why Is 144 MB of Cache Important for Gaming?

One of the most interesting claims surrounding Nova Lake is the rumored bLLC (Big Last-Level Cache) technology.

According to the leaked information, selected Nova Lake-S processors could feature up to 144 MB of this large cache. The maximum capacity is not expected to be available across the entire lineup, with different models potentially offering different amounts.

Processor cache stores frequently accessed data so the CPU can retrieve it faster than fetching it from system memory. In gaming, a larger cache can reduce memory access delays and potentially improve frame rates and frame-time consistency in certain workloads.

AMD's 3D V-Cache technology follows a similar principle by providing substantially more cache on supported Ryzen processors. If Intel's rumored bLLC technology delivers the expected benefits, it could make Nova Lake a more competitive option against AMD's Ryzen X3D lineup.

However, cache size alone does not determine gaming performance. Independent benchmarks will be needed to establish how Intel's new processors compare with existing CPUs.

How Much Power Will Nova Lake Consume?

The leaked specifications reportedly list a 125 W base power figure for the 28-core Core Ultra 9 4970K BFC.

This does not necessarily mean the processor will consume only 125 W under every workload. Actual power consumption can vary depending on operating frequencies, motherboard settings, workload intensity and configured power limits.

Intel has not yet confirmed the final power specifications for these rumored models, so it is too early to draw firm conclusions about their cooling requirements.

Users planning high-end desktop builds will also need to consider cooling capacity, motherboard compatibility and power delivery once the official specifications become available.

Intel Could Challenge AMD in Gaming Performance

AMD has established a strong position in gaming with its Ryzen X3D processors, which use large cache capacities to improve performance in supported games.

Intel's rumored adoption of bLLC in Nova Lake-S suggests that cache could become an even more important battleground between the two companies.

Combining a large cache, high core counts and a new architecture could make Nova Lake attractive for both gaming and productivity workloads.

Nevertheless, gaming performance depends on much more than core count. Architecture, clock speeds, memory latency and game-engine optimization all play important roles. Only real-world testing will reveal whether Nova Lake can outperform current Intel and AMD processors.

When Will Intel Nova Lake Launch?

Intel has not officially confirmed the leaked Core Ultra 400 desktop models or their specifications. As a result, there is currently no definitive information about pricing, the complete product lineup or exact launch dates.

Nova Lake-S is expected by some industry observers to arrive during 2027, but a firm release date should not be treated as confirmed until Intel makes an official announcement.

Users considering a future PC upgrade should watch for announcements covering motherboard socket compatibility, memory support, power consumption and gaming performance.

The latest Nova Lake-S leaks suggest that Intel could be focusing on both core counts and cache technology in its next generation of desktop processors.

A rumored 28-core flagship and up to 144 MB of bLLC cache could make the lineup particularly interesting for gamers and enthusiasts building high-performance PCs. However, these specifications remain unverified.

When Intel officially introduces its new processors, the biggest questions will be whether Nova Lake can compete with AMD's X3D lineup in real-world gaming performance, power efficiency and pricing.