Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

Updated Nov 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is the better pick — it scores 78/100 to the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H's 54, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Intel Core Ultra X9 388H instead if integrated graphics matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 125 W (400% more)
Core Specifications Maximum Power Consumption: 250 W (213% more)
Core Specifications L3 Cache: 36 MB (100% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Category	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H	Winner
Core Specifications	64	45	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K
Integrated Graphics	22	48	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Benchmark	92	59	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 2026.

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

The Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is a high-performance microprocessor utilizing the Arrow Lake microarchitecture. This type of processor, which debuted in 2024, is engineered for demanding desktop computing tasks. It is best suited for power users and enthusiasts requiring exceptional computational capability.

Best for high-performance tasksBest for content creationBest for intensive gaming

Pros

Designed on the modern Arrow Lake architecture (Source 1)
Represents a powerful step in Intel’s Core series development (Source 2)
Targeted as a desktop processor for high-end performance computing (Inferred from product type and general knowledge)

Cons

Requires specific system compatibility to leverage its modern microarchitecture (General PC knowledge)
The product is associated with the Arrow Lake platform, indicating it belongs to Intel's current generation offerings (Source 1)

Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

The Intel Core Ultra X9 388H is a high-performance mobile processor featuring 16 cores and 16 threads, designed for demanding laptop applications. It scales from a 25-watt base power consumption up to 80 watts maximum, pairing a 5.1 GHz maximum frequency with integrated Intel Arc B390 graphics.

Best for high-performance content creation laptopsBest for demanding mobile computing and gaming systems

Pros

High maximum frequency of 5.1 GHz for demanding workloads
Robust multi-core performance with 16 cores and 16 threads
Generous 24 MB L2 cache and 18 MB L3 cache configuration
Capable Intel Arc B390 integrated graphics

Cons

High power consumption scaling up to 80 watts under maximum load
May require robust laptop thermal solutions to maintain peak performance

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K

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Intel Core Ultra X9 388H

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K67,232

Intel Core Ultra X9 388H36,504

See the raw benchmark values →

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Cores	24	16
Threads	24	16
Base Frequency	3.7 GHz76% more	2.1 GHz
Base Power Consumption	125 W400% more	25 W
Maximum Frequency	5.7 GHz12% more	5.1 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	250 W213% more	80 W
L1 Cache	2,432 KB52% more	1,600 KB
L2 Cache	40 MB67% more	24 MB
L3 Cache	36 MB100% more	18 MB
Lithography Process	3 nm	N/A
Is unlocked	Yes	N/A

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core Ultra 9 285K	Intel Core Ultra X9 388H
PassMark CPU Mark	67,23284% more	36,504

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Intel Core Ultra 9 285K vs Intel Core Ultra X9 388H comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K rates higher at 84/100 versus 69/100 for Intel Core Ultra X9 388H — a 15-point lead. Intel Core Ultra 9 285K is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and Intel Core Ultra X9 388H are compared side by side above across every spec in the cpus category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 84/100 for Intel Core Ultra 9 285K and 69/100 for Intel Core Ultra X9 388H.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Intel Core Ultra 9 285K (84/100) edges out Intel Core Ultra X9 388H (69/100). But if Intel Core Ultra X9 388H is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.