Intel’s Latest “0x114” Microcode Fails to Fix Arrow Lake-S CPU Problems, Leading to Performance Drops of Up to 18%

Recent reports indicate that Intel’s latest “0x114″microcode has not successfully addressed the significant performance challenges faced by its Arrow Lake processors, as illustrated by new benchmark results that show further declines.

Challenges Persist for Intel’s Arrow Lake Desktop CPUs: BIOS Update Falls Short

Intel’s desktop CPU lineup is grappling with serious issues, particularly following setbacks with the “Raptor Lake Refresh”series, which faced thermal instability. Now, another complication appears to be surfacing with the Arrow Lake-S processors. For context, Intel had previously noted substantial discrepancies in performance between internal tests and consumer systems. In response, the company rolled out the “0x114″microcode intended to resolve various identified issues. However, the anticipated improvements have yet to materialize.

Alder Lake “performance”patches ⚠️

Massive performance drop with latest BIOS + MC + ME. Memory latency increased from ~69ns to ~80ns. I’ve run out of patience with this platform. @thraxbert pic.twitter.com/GSSeNNCEnX

— CapFrameX (@CapFrameX) December 30, 2024

According to benchmarks conducted by @CapFrameX, the updates included in the 0x114 microcode have not resolved the Arrow Lake-S issues. Observations show an alarming 18% decrease in gaming performance when running Cyberpunk 2077 using the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K. This drop is particularly concerning, as it adds to previous reports of declining performance metrics. Although Intel had promised a notable “double-digit”performance improvement with the new BIOS, preliminary tests suggest otherwise.

Image Credits: CapFrameX

Additionally, memory latency appears to have risen by approximately 14%, compounding the disappointment among users. It’s worth noting that the testing carried out is regarded as reputable in the industry. To establish conclusively that the ARL-S BIOS update is flawed, more corroborating evidence is required; however, it is becoming increasingly evident that Intel may need to rethink its strategy regarding the desktop CPU market.

Looking ahead, Intel plans to conduct a media briefing during CES 2025 to specifically address the performance concerns surrounding the Core Ultra 200S series. For owners of Arrow Lake-S processors, the immediate future entails waiting for an official comment from Intel to determine the consistency of these emerging benchmarks across all systems and validate the reported performance downgrades associated with the 0x114 microcode.

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