CES 2022: Intel Eyes Max Performance with All-New 12th Gen Range

Intel is breaking from its tradition, which is usually about peppering specific SKU launches throughout the year, as it decided – for the first time – to introduce 30 next-gen Intel Alder Lake CPU entries at Consumer Electronics Show 2022 (CES 2022).

This includes the all-new high-performance desktop and mobile processors for 2022.

12th Gen Intel Core goes big at CES 2022. Credit: Intel

After being on the receiving end of major downplay over the last few years from its market rivals, which now includes Apple taking on an upstart role again, it's clear that Intel wants to take back its "top dog" position with the unveiling of its entire 12th Gen Intel Core range.

The entire roadmap was laid down during Intel’s CES 2022 pre-briefing, where Team Blue literally brought out its biggest guns, featuring a bevy of next-gen CPUs that cater to enthusiasts, power users and mobile warriors.

Credit: Intel

First up are the 12th Gen Intel Core Mobile processors – the 45W H-series, 28W P-series, and low-powered 15W and 9W U-series. While most expect to see the former as Intel always shows off its high-performance entry at every CES, the latter two being teased is the first sign of parting from tradition for Intel.

Usually, both mobile CPUs – targeting mainstream users – will only officially appear at the equally glitzy COMPUTEX TAIPEI event in the mid-year.

The low-down for Intel Alder Lake for mobile: Its high-performance entries come with higher L3 cache – 12MB for the low-end i5, up to 24MB for the high-spec i9; can support both DDR4 and DDR5 RAM; sport Thunderbolt 4 and Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6E connectivity; and pack in new Intel innovations, such as Thread Director and Deep Link.

With processor fabrication advancements now incorporated into the 12th Gen Intel Core range, Intel believed it can meet top-line performance demands and cater to the various needs of gamers, creators and general users.

In fact, it claimed on paper that its highest performer – the Intel Core i9-12900HK – had outclassed whatever is currently available on the market.

This is, of course, subject to upcoming reviews once laptop manufacturers send in the goods. Intel confirmed that there will be over 100 laptops coming out this year with the Alder Lake mobile CPUs.

Next are the 12th Intel Core Desktop CPUs – the highly anticipated powerhouses for 2022. Coming in two power-draw flavours – 65W and 35W, the new SKUs are bundled with three new Intel Laminar Coolers: RH1 (for i9), RM1 (for i3 to i7) and RS1 (for Pentium and Celeron).

Finally, an Intel stock cooler that isn't bland. Credit: Intel

Specs-wise, all next-gen Alder Lake processors come with an oversized L3 Cache (up to 30MB); support Turbo Frequency and a whopping 20 PCIe Lanes; and are able to pair up with DDR4 and DDR5 RAM.

Each SKU bracket – performance, mainstream, and basic – have their own unique features.

Only the 12th Gen Intel Core i7 and i9 come with Turbo Boost Max Technology 3.0 and can ramp up the E-Core output. As for onboard graphics, there are three fixed options – Intel UHD Graphics 710 for Pentium and Celeron; Intel UHD Graphics 730 for i3 and i5; and Intel UHD Graphics 770 for i7 and i9.

As for chipsets, Intel will be launching new motherboard SKUs alongside its 12th Gen Intel Cores. This includes the updated Z690 as well as next-gen H670, B660 and H610 entries.

Credit: Intel

Surprisingly, Project Athena made a comeback at CES 2022 with Intel Alder Lake as its vPro entries – Enterprise and Essential – now work on four core focuses: Privacy, Engagement, Prepared and Sustainability. In simple words, they are next-gen enhancements on data security, work collaboration, user immersion and being environmentally friendly.

Additional details – like launch timeframe, real-world testing and recommended retail pricing – will be available in the coming weeks.

For the latest announcements from Las Vegas, head on over to the CES 2022 special coverage page.