Intel's CPU is already confusing,

Intel traditionally unveils its new processor lineup at CES to complement its launch late last year, and this year is no exception. The company has introduced a comprehensive lineup of 14th Gen desktop core CPUs, along with new 14th Gen core CPUs designed for gaming laptops and high-end workstations. Additionally, Intel introduced the first non-Ultra chipsets with the new "Core 3/5/7" branding, marking a move away from generational branding. However, the implications of this change may make it more confusing for consumers looking for clarity on what type of processor to buy.

In October, Intel expressed its commitment to the 14th generation brand for its new desktop CPUs due to their similarity to the 13th generation chips, both of which use the Raptor Lake infrastructure. While its expansion to include HX Series laptop chips is in line with the historical repackaging of desktop silicon for laptops, confusion arises with the Series 1 Core 7, Core 5, and Core 3 chips. These chips continue to rely on Raptor Lake overclocking, Instead of the new Meteor Lake architecture seen in the recently announced Core Ultra CPUs. The 1-series chipset specifications are very similar to the 13th generation U-series processors, lacking new Meteor Lake features like the NPU and integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics. The difference lies primarily in the increased maximum clock speed.

Although it's common industry practice to release modified versions of older chips as "new," Intel's approach of announcing a major generational branding change and selectively implementing it seems puzzling. The lack of immediate clarity on how the new branding scheme is less confusing than the old one raises questions, especially given Intel's recent criticism of AMD over alleged branding games.

The new Core-branded chips are set to debut in laptops this quarter. Meanwhile, 14th Gen desktop CPUs continue the trend of slight improvements over the 13th Gen versions, while maintaining compatibility with existing LGA1700 motherboards. Pricing remains consistent with the 13th generation, and Intel has replaced the Pentium and Celeron brands with the Intel processor brand. The desktop lineup includes the top-end i9-14900 at $549, the i7-14700 at $384, and the i5-14400 at $221. In addition, F-series versions are available without integrated graphics and T-series chipsets with lower power limits.

Intel also introduced five new 14th-generation HX-series Core processors for laptops, sharing silicon with their desktop counterparts and targeting larger gaming laptops and workstations. While the i5 and i9 tiers are very similar to the 13th Gen HX series CPUs, the Core i7-14700HX features the integration of four additional E-cores, for a total of 8 P-cores and 12 E-cores.

Continuing with Intel's processor lineup, the desktop chips in the 14th Gen continue the overclockable K-series trend introduced last fall. These CPUs, based on the Raptor Lake CPU architecture, exhibit minor enhancements over their 13th Gen counterparts, making them compatible with existing LGA1700 motherboards. What stands out is the introduction of the Intel processor brand, effectively replacing the Pentium and Celeron brands. The Intel 300 processor, akin to the Celeron equivalent, features two P cores, no E cores, and no Turbo Boost support, signaling a shift in Intel's naming conventions.

Maintaining consistent pricing with the 13th generation, the top-end i9-14900 is priced at $549, the i7-14700 at $384, and the i5-14400 at $221, offering users various options based on their performance requirements. The introduction of F-series versions without integrated graphics and T-series chips with lower default power limits provides additional flexibility, especially for users seeking cost savings or customized power consumption.

For enthusiasts looking to leverage the overclocking capabilities of these desktop chips, Intel includes the Laminar CPU cooler, with the Core i9 receiving the larger Laminar RH1 cooler featuring built-in blue RGB LEDs. The rest of the chipsets, from i7 to the Intel processor, come with the Laminar RM1 cooler.

In the laptop segment, Intel introduces five new 14th Gen HX Series Core processors, featuring the same silicon as their desktop counterparts. With a base power limit of 55 watts, these processors cater to large gaming laptops and workstations. While the i5 and i9 tiers closely resemble the 13th Gen HX series CPUs, the Core i7-14700HX stands out with four additional E-cores, highlighting Intel's commitment to delivering enhanced performance in diverse computing environments.