Tag: Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

  • Core Ultra X9 388H Slower Than X7 386H in Benchmarks

    Core Ultra X9 388H Slower Than X7 386H in Benchmarks

    Key Takeaway

    – Core Ultra X7 and X9 share identical specifications, differing only in clock speeds.
    – Actual performance depends more on cooling solutions than the processor model, so an X7 laptop can outperform an X9 laptop.
    – HP OmniBook Ultra 14 (X9) was 11% slower in multi-threaded and 7% slower in graphics than Asus Zenbook Duo (X9), and even slower than some X7 laptops.
    – Recommendation: Choose Core Ultra X7 over X9 to save money, as real-world performance differences are negligible.
    – Caution: Some laptops offer only the X9 option, forcing a premium for little to no benefit.

    The Panther Lake-X series currently comes in two flavors: the Core Ultra X7 386H and Core Ultra X9 388H. The two CPUs differ only in target clock rates as they otherwise share the exact same core count and features. In practice, this means that laptops sporting the Core Ultra X9 may sometimes run slower than laptops with the Core Ultra X7 depending on how effective their overlying cooling solutions are.

    Performance Quirks and Real World Testing

    The first two models sporting the Core Ultra X9 in our tests include the Asus Zenbook Duo and the HP OmniBook Ultra 14. Unfortunately for HP, the OmniBook is roughly 11 percent and 7 percent slower than the Asus in multi-threaded workloads and graphics performance, respectively. The delta is wide enough that the HP is slower than many laptops sporting the Core Ultra X7 including the Dell XPS 14 or Asus ExpertBook Ultra. The difference may be just a few percentage points, but they are nonetheless consistent enough in benchmarks to be notable.

    Pricing and Specification Details

    The narrow and sometimes unreliable performance gap between the Core Ultra X7 and Core Ultra X9 means that we recommend considering the Core Ultra X7 over the X9 whenever possible to save a few hundred dollars. Buyers will be unlikely to notice any minor performance advantages with the X9 and the money saved can instead be invested in other aspects like additional RAM or storage.

    Buyers Beware and Market Options

    At the moment, some laptops ship with the Core Ultra X9 but without any X7 options including the OmniBook Ultra 14. Buyers may then want to be careful as this essentially forces them to pay a premium for the X9 even when it undoubtedly offers little to no benefits over the X7. More benchmarks and comparisons with the Panther Lake-X9 can be found on our review of the aforementioned HP model.

    Sources
      Tags: , , ,
    • Intel Core Ultra X9 388H Beats AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 in Passmark

      Intel Core Ultra X9 388H Beats AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 in Passmark

      Key Takeaways

      1. The Intel Core Ultra X9 388H processor features 16 cores, including high-performance and efficiency cores, and is equipped with the Arc B390 iGPU.
      2. Performance results show only slight improvements over the previous generation, with a 10% increase in multithread performance and similar single-thread results.
      3. The 388H scored just below 38,000 points in multithread testing and approximately 4,450 points in single-thread performance on Passmark.
      4. The Panther Lake processor has a slight edge over AMD’s Ryzen AI 9 HX 470, which scored around 36,500 points in multithread tests.
      5. The Arc B390 iGPU is highlighted for its strong performance, reportedly outperforming the Radeon 890M by nearly 100% in gaming scenarios, making it suitable for compact laptops and mini PCs.

      The Intel Core Ultra X9 388H “Panther Lake” processor has been revealed and is now available on Passmark. The performance results show only slight improvements compared to the previous generation chips, even though Intel has been touting a significant boost of 60% in multithreaded tasks.

      Specifications Overview

      The Intel Core Ultra X9 388H features a configuration of 16 cores, which includes four high-performance Cougar Cove cores, eight Darkmont efficiency cores, and an additional 4 low-power Darkmont cores. For graphics, it utilizes the Arc B390 iGPU equipped with 12 Xe3 cores. According to the Passmark data noted by @x86deadandback on X, the 388H achieves a score of just below 38,000 points in multithreaded testing and approximately 4,450 points in single-thread performance.

      Performance Comparison

      When compared to the Core Ultra 9 285H, the Panther Lake processor shows about a 10% enhancement in multithread performance, while the single-thread results are nearly the same. Currently, only a couple of samples of the 388H have been tested on Passmark, which means that the scores are likely to fluctuate as more data comes in. Notably, the 285H has a 300 MHz higher boost clock than the 388H and a better P-core ratio, which makes the results look quite encouraging.

      AMD’s Position

      Fans of AMD might feel let down since the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 470 only managed to attain around 36,500 and 4,200 points in single-thread and multithread tests, respectively. This gives the Panther Lake chip a slight edge. While benchmarks alone aren’t definitive, it suggests that AMD could face challenges against Intel in 2026.

      Interestingly, as highlighted by TechPowerUp, the standout feature of the Panther Lake processor is likely the Arc B390 iGPU. Leaked benchmark information indicates that the B390 outperforms the Radeon 890M by nearly 100% in practical gaming scenarios. For compact laptops that can’t fit discrete GPUs and mini PCs, the Panther Lake chips appear to be a very attractive option.

      Exciting Offers

      Eager for Panther Lake mini PCs? The GMKtec Evo-T1, which comes with 64 GB of memory and 2 TB of storage, is currently priced at $300 less on Amazon.

      Passmark, x86deadandback, noted by TechPowerUp.

      Source:
      Link

       

      Tags: , ,
    • Minisforum EliteMini M2 Pro: New Panther Lake Mini PC with Arc B390

      Minisforum EliteMini M2 Pro: New Panther Lake Mini PC with Arc B390

      Key Takeaways

      1. The standout product unveiled by Minisforum at CES 2026 is the EliteMini M2 Pro, powered by the Panther Lake series and featuring the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H.
      2. The EliteMini M2 Pro includes the Arc B390 integrated GPU, offering performance comparable to the RTX 4050 Laptop GPU for 1080p gaming and supports external GPUs via USB4 ports.
      3. There will be a base model with the Intel Arc 370 integrated GPU and the Intel Core Ultra 5 338H, with upgrade options for up to 96 GB of LPDDR5x RAM at 9,600 MHz.
      4. The design of the EliteMini M2 Pro resembles the AI X1 Pro, featuring a stylish and compact chassis.
      5. Details on availability and pricing for the EliteMini M2 Pro have not been announced, but a full launch is expected soon following its showcase at CES 2026.

      Minisforum recently revealed several new products at CES 2026. While many of these items were previously announced, the standout surprise is the EliteMini M2 Pro. This model is driven by the latest Panther Lake series, and the highest configuration includes the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H.

      Performance Features

      This particular model is designed for performance, featuring the Arc B390 integrated GPU. Initial benchmarks suggest that it delivers performance on par with the RTX 4050 Laptop GPU, positioning the Minisforum EliteMini M2 Pro as a solid option for 1080p gaming. Additionally, it supports external GPUs via USB4 ports. For those curious about the port setup, it includes several options.

      Configuration Options

      The company has also confirmed a version that will utilize the Intel Arc 370 integrated GPU, meaning the base model will be equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 5 338H. Minisforum highlights that users can upgrade the system to include up to 96 GB of LPDDR5x RAM operating at 9,600 MHz.

      Design and Availability

      Regarding its design, based on a brief showcase at CES 2026, it has a look similar to the AI X1 Pro (which can be found on Amazon), featuring a stylish chassis in a compact size. There is currently no information on when the EliteMini M2 Pro will be available for sale, nor have pricing details been announced. However, since it was showcased at CES 2026, a full launch should occur soon.

      Source:
      Link

       

      Tags: , ,
    • Asus Launches Lightweight ExpertBook Ultra for Business Market

      Asus Launches Lightweight ExpertBook Ultra for Business Market

      Key Takeaways

      1. Asus launches the ExpertBook Ultra B9406CAA, targeting business professionals with a premium 14-inch laptop.
      2. The laptop features Intel Panther Lake CPUs, up to 64 GB RAM, and 2 TB SSD storage for high performance.
      3. It boasts 2.8K Tandem OLED touch-screens with a brightness of 1400 cd/m² and a long-lasting 70 Wh battery.
      4. Key features include multiple USB-A and Thunderbolt 4 ports, an aluminum chassis, and a dual-fan cooling system.
      5. The laptop currently lacks 5G connectivity, which competitors like Dell and HP offer. Pricing and availability are yet to be announced.

      When you hear the name Asus, your mind likely jumps to ZenBook laptops or their gaming line, Republic of Gamers (ROG). However, it’s important to remember that Asus also creates laptops geared towards the business world. These are called Asus ExpertBooks. At CES 2026, Asus unveiled their latest flagship model: the Asus ExpertBook Ultra B9406CAA.

      Targeting Business Professionals

      This new 14-inch premium business laptop aims to compete in the same space as the HP EliteBook X and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon (which you can find on Amazon). It’s designed for managers, CEOs, and other professionals who seek a device that is not only dependable but also offers an upscale experience. To capture this market, Asus equips the ExpertBook with the latest Intel Panther Lake series CPUs, including the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H, along with options for up to 64 GB of RAM and 2 TB SSD storage. The laptop also boasts 2.8K Tandem OLED touch-screens that can reach a brightness level of 1400 cd/m². All of this is powered by a robust 70 Wh battery, making it remarkable, especially considering the laptop’s weight of just 1.09 kg, which makes it easy to carry around.

      Premium Features Included

      Asus ensures that this enterprise laptop does not lack in other important features. It includes two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and two Thunderbolt 4 ports. The chassis is crafted from aluminum, contributing to its lightweight design. You’ll also find six speakers, a haptic touchpad, and a dual-fan cooling system capable of managing up to 50 W of continuous power consumption. However, one feature that seems to be absent is 5G connectivity, which is something that competitors like Dell, HP, and Lenovo offer.

      Currently, Asus has yet to announce any details regarding pricing or availability. We will update this article once Asus shares this information.

       

      Tags: , ,
    • GMKtec Unveils Evo-T2 Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra X9 at CES 2026

      GMKtec Unveils Evo-T2 Mini PC with Intel Core Ultra X9 at CES 2026

      Key Takeaways

      1. GMKtec’s Evo-T1 mini PC features the Intel Core Ultra 9 285H chip, delivering strong performance and efficiency.
      2. The Evo-T2 gaming mini PC will launch at CES 2026, featuring Intel’s next-gen Panther Lake processors.
      3. The Evo-T2 is expected to have a powerful Intel Core Ultra X9 388H CPU with 16 cores, performing well in benchmarks.
      4. Graphics will be managed by an Intel Xe3-based Arc B390 iGPU, potentially offering double the performance of its competitors.
      5. The Evo-T2 will support up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X memory and will include advanced storage options, but pricing details remain unavailable.

      GMKtec is a name that many people recognize when it comes to compact and powerful mini PCs. One of their latest products, the Evo-T1, is equipped with the robust Intel Core Ultra 9 285H chip. After reviewing this system, we found that it delivers solid performance and efficiency.

      Upcoming Release

      The company is set to release the Evo-T2 gaming mini PC, which will feature Intel’s next-gen Panther Lake processors. This mini PC has been teased in the past, and now GMKtec has confirmed its launch at CES 2026. Additionally, it has been announced that the Evo-T2 will run on the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H “Panther Lake” CPU.

      Impressive Specifications

      Previously, we have seen this CPU in leaked benchmarks from sources like Geekbench, showing a configuration of 16 cores divided into 4 performance, 4 low-power, and 8 efficiency cores. According to the Geekbench data, the CPU surpasses the 3,000-point threshold in single-core performance and reaches about 17,600 points in multi-core tests. The Core Ultra 285H falls significantly behind, while the chip performs comparably to the Ryzen AI Max+ 395 Strix Halo APU (the GMKtec Evo-X2 is currently listed at $1,660 on Amazon).

      An Intel Xe3-based Arc B390 iGPU will manage graphics, featuring a total of 12 cores. If the leaked benchmarks are accurate, the B390 could be as much as double the performance of the Radeon 890M iGPU. It’s clear that the Evo-T2 is being designed to be a highly capable mini PC, able to compete with AMD’s Strix Halo series, making it suitable for gaming and local LLMs tasks.

      Memory and Storage

      The Evo-T2 mini PC will come with up to 128 GB of LPDDR5X-10677 memory, dual network ports with unspecified speeds, and a wide range of connectivity options. Storage will be managed by both a PCIe 4.0 and a PCIe 5.0 drive. Pricing information is not available yet, but given the recent rise in DRAM prices, it’s likely that the memory-rich versions of the Evo-T2 will come at a significant cost.

      GMKtec via ITHome

      Source:
      Link

       

      Tags: , ,