Intel Nova Lake Desktop CPUs: A Potential Rival to AMD’s X3D Lineup with Big Cache Variants

Intel is gearing up for a robust entry into the desktop CPU arena with the upcoming Nova Lake series, which is poised to rival AMD’s notable X3D offerings.

Enhancements of Nova Lake CPUs: A Step Towards 3D V-Cache Technology

Historically, Intel has not dismissed the idea of a “3D V-Cache”initiative. Former CEO Pat Gelsinger hinted at the potential development of such processors utilizing proprietary technologies like Foveros and EMIB. The company’s aim is to broaden its reach within this competitive market segment.

Earlier this year, Intel’s Tech Communications Manager indicated that the company plans to initially focus on integrating expanded cache tiles into its server products. However, the prospect of adapting this innovation for consumer-level CPUs remains on the table. Recent leaks suggest that the Nova Lake lineup might very well incorporate “X3D-like”variants, as disclosed by a leak from @Haze2K1.

8p, 16e8p, 12e

Both 4lpe, bLLC, 125w https://t.co/EQo4MiaGpq

— Haze (@Haze2K1) June 17, 2025

@Haze2K1’s leak provided insights into various Nova Lake models, including the Core Ultra 9 and Core Ultra 7 series. It is anticipated that specific models within the Nova Lake range will feature “big Last Line Cache”(bLLC), indicating an increased L3 cache size. This positions Intel to enhance its cache capabilities, echoing AMD’s strategy with its “X3D”CPUs through the additional 3D V-Cache technology.

AMD Refutes Possibility Of A Ryzen X3D CPU Having 3D V-Cache On All CCDs, Citing Economic Concerns

The leak has hinted at two specific models—those equipped with configurations of 8P + 12E and 8P + 16E—set to include the bLLC feature. This implies that the initial release of the “X3D-like”capabilities may be restricted to select variants. Nevertheless, the overall outlook for the Nova Lake desktop CPUs is promising, boasting significant generational enhancements, which may include:

2.16x Increase in Core Count (NVL-S)
2.16x Increase in Thread Count (NVL-S)
Four Additional LP-E Cores per chip
Maximum TDP of 150W

As Intel navigates the competitive landscape, a decisive impact on the desktop CPU market is imperative since it is losing traction to AMD, which has experienced a surge in consumer adoption recently. The initial performance of Team Blue’s Arrow Lake models has not met expectations, leading to heightened anticipation for the Nova Lake series, which, on paper, presents an impressive advancement for Intel.

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