Intel Core Ultra 285K tests have leaked, showing a noticeable performance jump compared to its predecessor at a lower temperature. However, to get there, you’ll need to tinker a bit.
According to benchmark results shared by @I_Leak_VN on X, Intel’s upcoming Core Ultra 285K CPU delivers 45,563 points in the Cinebench R23 multi-core test. This puts it 10% ahead of its predecessor, Core i9-14900K, while taking less power at 250W. As a reminder, 14900K has a max rated 253W TDP but can go beyond 300W when fully loaded, so long as your cooler can keep up.
On the subject of cooling, though 250W is fairly high compared to the competition, it only resulted in a maximum of 76°C. Great, especially against 14900K, which tends to hit its thermal throttling limit fairly quickly at its max rating. Note, however, that with the minimum test duration switched off, the benchmark likely wasn’t long enough to heat up the chip/cooler for a true representation of its capabilities. Since liquid coolers are very good at handling short bursts of heat, the CPU may seem less hot than it can be under long, heavy loads.
That said, it’s important to understand that this achievement was mainly possible thanks to some BIOS setting optimisations. While the user didn’t share their tweaks, Core Ultra 285K delivers a mild boost over the 14900K under default configuration with 42,286 points in Cinebench R23. That’s a 2% improvement for a 328W power consumption. As you can guess, the temperatures also skyrocketed, hitting 104°C.
When fully unlocked, Core Ultra can go even further by reaching 370W, according to a couple of captures shared by @9550pro. Thankfully, the score also improved, now sitting at 46,289 points, i.e. a 12% boost over the 14900K.
What you should take from this is that Core Ultra 9 285K can be whatever you need. A cool and efficient chip compared to its predecessor, or a powerhouse that knows no limits for power consumption. Personally, I prefer silent operation, even if the gains aren’t outstanding.