Intel is gearing up to launch its new-generation Xeon 600 series processors (codenamed Granite Rapids-WS), which are aimed squarely at the enthusiast desktop and entry-level workstation segments. The flagship model, the Xeon 698X, boasts an impressive 86 cores and 172 threads, along with a massive 336MB of L3 cache. It can reach a maximum clock speed of 4.6GHz and has a thermal design power (TDP) of 350W. When compared to the previous-generation Xeon W9-3595X, the Xeon 698X sees a substantial 43% increase in core count and a threefold jump in L3 cache size.

Early benchmark results are promising, with the processor scoring 2532 points in single-core tests and a whopping 21030 points in multi-core performance. However, it's worth noting that these results are from a pre-optimization stage. In a head-to-head comparison with AMD's Threadripper PRO 9995WX, which packs 96 cores and 192 threads along with 384MB of cache, the Xeon 698X shines in terms of cost-effectiveness. Retailers are currently quoting a price of around 58,000 RMB for the Xeon 698X, whereas AMD's comparable offering comes with a heftier price tag of 100,000 RMB.

The Xeon 600 series doesn't stop at the flagship model; it also encompasses 10 other variants. For instance, there's the 64-core Xeon 696X, which features cache sizes ranging from 78MB to 336MB and maintains a TDP of 350W, catering to a diverse range of user needs and preferences.