Intel's Nova Lake lineup leaks with a cache-heavy Core Ultra 9 4970K BFC at the top

Intel's Nova Lake-S desktop processors are set to debut with a top-tier Core Ultra 9 4970K BFC chip, featuring a substantial last-level cache. This flagship model is anticipated to outperform the Core Ultra 9 4950K. The cache-heavy specifications indicate Intel's strategy to offer performance-focused parts in the consumer market.

Jaykihn, an Intel leaker, disclosed that the standard chips also include the LP-E cores and vPro support, though these details are not explicitly mentioned in the leaked table. Another previously leaked 4950K CPU-Z profile corroborates this with its 28 cores, suggesting a 8P+16E layout for the non-BFC models. This leaked information originates from LC Tech Leaks, the same source previously responsible for a 4950K CPU-Z screenshot.

The naming remains unofficial, but it aligns with Intel's internal codename bLLC, for big last-level cache. The brand name "BFC" is yet to be officially confirmed, but enthusiasts have speculated various interpretations. The leaked configurations match earlier reports of 22-core Nova Lake-S parts with up to 144MB of cache, and the 6P+12E+4LP-E Core Ultra 9 4900 BFC.

An intriguing entry suggests Intel plans cache-heavy gaming parts, exceeding the enthusiast flagship's cache capacity. In comparison to AMD's 3D V-Cache technology, BFC could potentially compete in the market. The 65W big-cache chip hints at Intel's intention to cater to cache-intensive gaming applications. While there is uncertainty about the cache placement, server CPUs use a base tile design, similar to AMD's third-gen X3D chips.

The power consumption of the 28-core bLLC part is speculated to be around 300W at PL2, though this information is not confirmed. Nova Lake-S will employ the new LGA 1954 socket and 900-series chipsets, with Intel aiming to launch these products by the end of 2026, with a CES 2027 unveiling being the most probable event.