Intel's upcoming Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus laptop CPU is closing the gap with its desktop equivalent, the Core Ultra 9 285K, in performance benchmarks. The latest leaks suggest this chip could redefine what consumers expect from mobile processors.
The Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus, part of Intel's Arrow Lake-HX refresh lineup, features a similar core configuration to the existing flagship but with refined clock speeds and cache improvements. With 8 performance cores and 16 efficiency cores, it maintains a balanced architecture designed for high-demand tasks while managing power efficiently.
Key specifications include
- Base clock: 3.10 GHz
- Boost clock: 5.5 GHz (slightly higher than the current Core Ultra 9 285HX)
- L3 cache: 36 MB
- L2 cache: 12 MB
- Integrated 4 Xe iGPU
- TDP: 55W (base), 160W (MTP)
The chip's performance in benchmarks is notable, scoring 3198 points in single-core and 21,581 points in multi-core tests. These results place it competitively alongside the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X3D and Intel's own Core Ultra 9 285K desktop CPU, despite being designed for laptops.
This performance leap is particularly significant given Intel's focus on the Panther Lake series during CES 2026. The Arrow Lake-HX refresh, including the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus, appears to be slated for a separate unveiling, suggesting a strategic rollout to maintain momentum in both mobile and desktop markets.
For consumers, this means laptop CPUs are now capable of matching or even surpassing desktop performance in key benchmarks. The Core Ultra 9 285K desktop chip, priced at $529, serves as a benchmark for what to expect from the 290HX Plus in terms of raw power.
Looking ahead, Intel's next steps will likely focus on refining thermal management and battery life for mobile use while pushing the boundaries of integrated graphics performance. The Core Ultra Series 3, announced at CES, sets a new baseline, but the Arrow Lake-HX refresh could redefine what's possible in portable computing.
As more details emerge, industry watchers will be keen to see how this chip performs in real-world applications, particularly in gaming and content creation. The balance between power efficiency and performance will be critical in determining its market success.
