Intel Nova Lake-S Leaked: 18-Core Core Ultra 5 with bLLC Cache

Intel is preparing to launch two 18-core desktop processors for its Nova Lake-S (Core Ultra 400S) series, featuring a new single-tile architecture and integrated bLLC cache technology, according to a new leak. This shift matters because it signals a move away from multi-chip modules for mainstream desktops, potentially offering better gaming performance per watt for average PC builders. Buyers planning a new desktop build can now see the full scope of Intel’s upcoming high-core-count options and understand the architectural changes defining the next generation.

New leak details single-tile architecture and bLLC cache for upcoming desktop CPUs

The leaked specifications detail two distinct models within the Core Ultra 5 branch, both built on a single-compute tile design. One variant targets enthusiasts with a 125W unlocked K-series configuration, while the other offers a more efficient 65W non-K option for standard builds. Both processors utilize a hybrid core layout consisting of six performance cores based on the Coyote Cove architecture and eight efficiency cores built on the Arctic Wolf design. An additional four low-power efficiency cores round out the 18-core count, though specific model numbers remain unconfirmed in the leak.

Nova Lake-S Specifications

• Core Count: 18 cores (6 P-Cores, 8 E-Cores, 4 LP-E Cores)
• Thread Count: 18 threads
• TDP Options: 125W (K series) and 65W (non-K)
• Cache Technology: bLLC (Big LLC)
• Architecture: Single-Compute Tile

A key technical feature is the integration of bLLC (Big LLC) technology, which places a significantly larger shared cache directly on the CPU die. This design choice aims to reduce the frequency with which CPU cores read data from main DDR5 memory, thereby lowering data access latency. The larger cache, which can reach up to 144 MB in the single-compute tile variant, is intended to improve performance in multitasking, gaming, and compute-intensive applications by keeping data closer to the processing units.

We have been tracking Nova Lake-S closely and previously covered the Gigabyte AORUS Z990 PRO Motherboard Confirmed at Computex, which supports this new platform. The leak was shared by tech leaker @Jaykihn and reported by Wccftech, adding concrete specifications to earlier motherboard and socket rumors. These details provide a clearer picture of Intel’s strategy to prioritize cache density and efficiency over raw core count scaling in its upcoming mainstream lineup.

Intel’s Nova Lake-S lineup expands with these two 18-core Core Ultra 5 models, introducing a single-tile architecture and bLLC cache tech to boost gaming and multitasking efficiency. The specific model numbers are not explicitly listed, but the TDP options and core configurations are now known. This leak confirms the architectural direction for the Core Ultra 400S series and highlights the importance of on-die cache in modern desktop performance.