Quick Verdict
A brute-force mobile CPU that ignores power constraints to deliver true desktop performance, ideal for thick DTR laptops.
Overview
Launch
2026
Status
ActiveGeneration
Ultra 9 (Arrow Lake-HX)
Market
Mobile
The Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus is a formidable desktop-replacement mobile processor designed to deliver uncompromising performance for the most demanding workloads. Belonging to the Arrow Lake-HX Refresh lineup, this chip is essentially a desktop CPU squeezed into a mobile form factor, targeting extreme gaming laptops and portable workstations. Built on TSMC's 3nm process, it features a robust 24-core configuration comprising 8 'Lion Cove' P-cores and 16 'Skymont' E-cores, providing massive multi-threaded processing power. Operating at a base frequency of 2.7 GHz and boosting up to 5.5 GHz, the 290HX Plus excels in heavy-duty tasks like 3D rendering, code compilation, and 4K video editing. Unlike standard mobile chips, it boasts an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to tune the system for maximum performance. With a base power of 55W that can peak at 160W during turbo bursts, this processor requires substantial cooling. It includes Arc Xe-LPG Graphics with 64 EUs, ensuring smooth display outputs and basic rendering, though its true potential is unlocked when paired with high-end discrete GPUs. The inclusion of 20 PCIe Gen 5 lanes ensures support for the fastest mobile storage and graphics solutions. The 'Plus' moniker signifies a refined stepping, offering optimized power delivery and stability over the initial HX release, making it the ultimate choice for users who refuse to compromise on mobile performance.
Intel's Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus brings desktop-class computing to mobile platforms. Utilizing TSMC's 3nm process, it combines 8 P-cores and 16 E-cores to handle heavily threaded workloads effortlessly. With an unlocked multiplier, 5.
5GHz max turbo, and 20 PCIe Gen 5 lanes, it caters to enthusiasts needing maximum storage and GPU bandwidth. The 'Plus' refresh offers refined power delivery over its predecessor, ensuring stable performance at its 160W turbo peak.
Specifications
Performance
Crushes multi-threaded productivity apps like Blender and Premiere Pro.
Excellent for local VMs, though dual-channel memory is a slight bottleneck vs HEDT.
Top-tier gaming performance, especially when paired with high-end discrete GPUs.
Extremely power-hungry under load, requiring constant AC power.
- •High single-core boost ensures high framerates
- •Won't bottleneck RTX 4090 mobile GPUs
- •Requires robust cooling to maintain boost clocks
- •Includes 13 TOPS NPU for basic AI tasks
- •Primary AI compute relies on CPU and dGPU
- •Combined Int8 TOPS up to 36
Architecture
3 nm
Process Node
Arrow Lake-HX Refresh
Codename
24C / 24T
Core Config
36 MB
L3 Cache
55 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Arrow Lake-HX Refresh architecture leverages a monolithic die design optimized for high power envelopes, diverging from the tile-based approach of standard mobile chips to reduce latency. The 'Lion Cove' P-cores feature a wider pipeline and increased out-of-order execution resources, delivering significant IPC improvements for single-threaded applications. Conversely, the 'Skymont' E-cores are incredibly area-efficient, providing massive throughput for highly parallel tasks without consuming excessive power. The 3nm TSMC node ensures high transistor density, allowing Intel to pack 17.8 billion transistors into a 243mm² die. Memory support is handled via a dual-channel DDR5 controller natively running at 6400 MT/s, providing 102.4 GB/s of bandwidth. The 36MB of L3 cache ensures that the 24 cores are constantly fed with data, minimizing stalls during intense workloads. Intel has also integrated an NPU capable of 13 TOPS, which, while modest compared to Panther Lake, satisfies basic AI offloading needs. The 20 PCIe Gen 5 lanes are a standout feature, enabling direct CPU-to-GPU and CPU-to-SSD connections with massive bandwidth. This architecture is purpose-built for throughput, sacrificing battery efficiency for raw, unadulterated compute power, making it ideal for sustained heavy workloads in thick, well-cooled chassis.
CPU Design
Hybrid 8 P-Cores (Lion Cove) + 16 E-Cores (Skymont).
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR5 up to 6400 MT/s.
PCIe & I/O
20 lanes of PCIe Gen 5 from the CPU, plus 4 Gen 4 lanes.
Overclocking
Fully unlocked multiplier for enthusiast tuning.
- Refined B0 stepping for better voltage stability
- Optimized power delivery algorithms
- Slightly improved sustained performance under load
Key Highlights
- Massive 24-core, 24-thread processing power
- Unlocked multiplier for enthusiast overclocking
- 20 PCIe Gen 5 lanes for maximum expandability
- 5.5 GHz max turbo delivers elite single-thread performance
- Supports ECC memory for workstation reliability
- Extreme power consumption (up to 160W)
- Requires massive, heavy laptop chassis for cooling
- Inefficient for battery-powered use
- Integrated graphics (64EU) are weak compared to the CPU's potential
History
The Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus was introduced in early 2026 as part of Intel's mid-generation refresh strategy to maintain competitiveness in the high-end gaming laptop market. The original Arrow Lake-HX series, launched in late 2024, faced criticism regarding power management and thermal constraints in mobile designs. The 'Plus' refresh was Intel's response, utilizing a matured B0 stepping of the 3nm die to improve voltage curves and thermal behavior.
This release was critical for Intel to secure design wins with major OEMs like MSI, Asus, and Alienware, who needed an edge in the fiercely competitive DTR (Desktop Replacement) segment. Historically, the HX series represents Intel's commitment to bringing true desktop silicon to mobile platforms, a tradition that started with Coffee Lake-HX. The 290HX Plus continues this legacy, but with the added complexity of the hybrid architecture and an integrated NPU, reflecting the industry's broader shift towards AI-accelerated computing.
This chip solidified Arrow Lake's position in the premium tier before the transition to Panther Lake-HX, serving as a stopgap that delivered refined performance and stability for enthusiast mobile platforms.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Refined B0 stepping for better voltage stability
- Optimized power delivery algorithms
- Slightly improved sustained performance under load
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
Investing in a laptop powered by the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus is exclusively recommended for buyers looking at premium, thick-and-heavy gaming laptops or mobile workstations. If you are investing in a machine to replace a desktop for tasks like 3D animation, heavy code compilation, or competitive 4K gaming, this processor will deliver exceptional, tunable performance. Because it is unlocked, it offers a degree of future-proofing for enthusiasts willing to tweak power limits. However, you must ensure the laptop has a robust vapor chamber or multiple fans, as the 160W turbo draw generates substantial heat. Avoid this processor if you prioritize battery life or portability; it is inefficient for light tasks and will drain a battery rapidly. Furthermore, ensure the laptop pairs this CPU with a high-end discrete GPU (RTX 4080/4090 or equivalent) to avoid bottlenecks, as the 64EU integrated graphics are insufficient for the workloads this CPU is designed for.
Avoid if…
- You need a laptop for school or office work
- Portability and battery life are your primary concerns
- You are not pairing it with a high-end discrete GPU
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
The 'Plus' designation indicates a refreshed stepping optimized for stability.
It packs 17.8 billion transistors into a 243mm² die.
Despite being a mobile chip, it does not support LPDDR5 memory.
The PL2 power limit is nearly triple the base TDP (160W vs 55W).
It uses the same BGA 2114 socket as the original Arrow Lake-HX series.
Features 'Lion Cove' P-cores, Intel's most advanced performance architecture to date.
The integrated Arc graphics operate dynamically between 300 and 2000 MHz.
Total platform AI TOPS is 36, shared across CPU, GPU, and NPU.
It supports Intel vPro Enterprise for remote management.
Stepping B0 marks it as a matured revision of the Arrow Lake silicon.
People Also Ask
Can you overclock the Intel Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus?
Yes, it features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to manually adjust clock speeds and voltages.
What is the max turbo power of the 290HX Plus?
The processor can draw up to 160W (PL2) during maximum turbo boost.
How many cores does the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus have?
It has 24 total cores: 8 Performance cores and 16 Efficient cores.
Does the 290HX Plus support LPDDR5 memory?
No, it only supports standard DDR5 memory up to 6400 MT/s.
What is the difference between 285HX and 290HX Plus?
The 290HX Plus is a refreshed version with a newer stepping (B0) offering optimized power delivery and stability.
Is the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus good for battery life?
No, it is a desktop replacement chip with high power consumption, making it unsuitable for long battery-powered sessions.
What socket does the 290HX Plus use?
It uses the Intel BGA 2114 socket, meaning it is soldered to the motherboard.
Does the 290HX Plus have integrated graphics?
Yes, it includes Intel Arc Xe-LPG Graphics with 64 Execution Units.
What process node is the 290HX Plus built on?
It is manufactured by TSMC on their 3nm process node.
How much L3 cache does the 290HX Plus have?
It features 36MB of shared L3 cache.
Frequently Asked Questions
What generation is the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus?
It belongs to the Intel Core Ultra 9 (Arrow Lake-HX) generation, specifically the Refresh lineup.
Does the 290HX Plus support ECC memory?
Yes, it supports Error Correcting Code (ECC) memory for workstation reliability.
What are the P-cores and E-cores in the 290HX Plus?
It utilizes 'Lion Cove' P-Cores and 'Skymont' E-Cores.
How many PCIe Gen 5 lanes are available?
The CPU provides 20 PCIe Gen 5 lanes for high-speed devices like GPUs and NVMe drives.
What is the base clock speed of the 290HX Plus?
The base clock speed is 2.7 GHz.
When was the Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus released?
It was released on March 17th, 2026.
What is the maximum memory capacity supported?
While not explicitly verified, dual-channel DDR5 platforms of this tier typically support up to 192GB.
Does the 290HX Plus have an NPU?
Yes, it includes an NPU capable of 13 TOPS for background AI tasks.
What is the die size of the 290HX Plus?
The monolithic die measures 243 mm².
What chipsets support the 290HX Plus?
It is compatible with Intel WM880 and HM870 chipsets.