Intel Granite Rapids-WS Xeon 698X: Next-Generation HEDT Processor Unveiled on Geekbench
Intel’s highly anticipated "Granite Rapids-WS" processor has surfaced on Geekbench, offering a first look at the specifications set to define Intel’s high-end desktop (HEDT) platform in the coming year. The spotlight is on the Xeon 698X CPU, which boasts an impressive 86 cores and 172 threads. This processor operates at a base frequency of 2.0 GHz and can boost up to 4.6 GHz. While it remains uncertain whether the maximum boost frequency applies to all cores or only select ones, the performance metrics are notable.
In Geekbench v6.5 testing, the Xeon 698X achieved a single-core score of 2,532 and a multicore score of 21,030, running on Ubuntu 24.04.3 LTS. The processor is equipped with a substantial 336 MB of L3 cache, underscoring its focus on demanding workstation and server workloads.
Advanced Architecture and Platform Features
The Granite Rapids-WS series is built on Intel’s XCC (Extreme Core Count) server compute dies. The architecture likely utilizes a multi-chip-module (MCM) system-on-chip (SoC) design to reach its high core count, although specific die configurations have yet to be officially disclosed. More details are expected to emerge with the platform’s formal launch.
Supporting these powerful CPUs is the W890 workstation platform, which introduces a new socket E2 design featuring 4,710 LGA pins. This robust socket supports thermal design power (TDP) ratings up to 350 watts, catering to the demands of professional and enterprise users.
PCIe Expansion and Tiered Platform Options
Intel is implementing a two-tiered approach for the Granite Rapids-WS platform, offering both "Expert" and "Mainstream" configurations. The Expert-class platform provides a total of 112 PCIe lanes—96 lanes of PCIe 5.0 and 16 lanes of PCIe 4.0—enabling extensive expansion for high-performance GPUs, storage, and networking. The Mainstream tier delivers 80 PCIe 5.0 lanes, still offering significant connectivity for advanced workstation needs.
Pricing and Market Position
The Granite Rapids-WS Xeon 698X is positioned at the top end of Intel’s workstation CPU lineup, with early listings suggesting a price point of up to $8,300 for the flagship model. This pricing reflects the processor’s advanced capabilities and its target market of professionals requiring extreme performance for compute-intensive applications.
As Intel prepares to launch the Granite Rapids-WS platform, the Xeon 698X stands out as a significant advancement in workstation and server processing power, setting new benchmarks for core count, cache size, and platform scalability.
