Recently, the detailed specifications of the upcoming Core 5 120F processor were unveiled by foreign media. This new processor is part of the Bartlett Lake series, designed specifically for desktops. It utilizes a full Performance Core (P-Core) architecture, eschewing the Energy Efficient Core (E-Core), which aligns with some of Intel's previous Alder Lake processor configurations. The Bartlett Lake series is compatible with the LGA 1700 socket and shares motherboard platforms with 13th- and 14th-generation Core processors, providing users with a flexible upgrade option.

Aimed at the entry-level market, the Core 5 120F boasts six Raptor Cove performance cores featuring Hyper-Threading support, allowing for 12 threads. This setup closely resembles that of the existing Core i5-12400F, offering a base clock speed of 2.5 GHz, a thermal design power (TDP) of 65W, and 18 MB of L3 cache. Regarding memory support, the Core 5 120F is compatible with both DDR4 and DDR5 memory and provides a slight increase in top speed to 4.5 GHz, 100 MHz higher than the i5-12400F’s 4.4 GHz.

The distinct design of the Bartlett Lake series lies in its exclusive use of performance cores. Unlike the mainstream Raptor Lake Refresh processors, which combine small and large cores, Bartlett Lake's architecture may be tailored for distinct applications, such as industrial uses and gaming, which demand high single-thread performance. Intel emphasizes that the Core 5 120F is optimized for budget-conscious gamers, promising a smooth gaming experience without breaking the bank.

Apart from the Core 5 120F, the Bartlett Lake family will include higher-end Core 7 and Core 9 models, featuring up to 12 cores and supporting Hyper-Threading technology. These models are anticipated to enhance multi-threaded performance, catering to professional content creation and intensive computing needs. Leaked reports suggest that the Bartlett Lake lineup has begun receiving Linux kernel support, indicating its broader application scope beyond consumer markets, potentially benefitting industrial and embedded systems as well.

Technically, the Bartlett Lake series continues leveraging Intel's 10nm process (known as Intel 7), consistent with the Raptor Lake series. While process technology advancements remain static, Intel aims to balance performance and energy efficiency by refining core architecture and clocking strategies. With a 65W TDP, the Core 5 120F is well-suited for compact or low-power systems, and its DDR4 memory support keeps upgrade costs manageable, appealing to budget PC builders.

Positioned in the market to address pricing gaps in Intel's lineup, the Bartlett Lake series is strategized for diverse consumers, from mainstream gamers to industrial users. While pricing for the Core 5 120F remains undisclosed, it is anticipated to launch at a price similar to the current i5-12400F, around $1,000, thus attracting price-sensitive buyers. Interestingly, Intel's marketing indicates a dual focus on both the gaming sector and industrial applications, such as factory automation, medical equipment, and retail terminals, which require robust hardware durability and compatibility.

Looking forward, the introduction of Bartlett Lake will diversify Intel's product offerings further. Combined with the trusted ecosystem of the LGA 1700 platform, this series gives users a cost-effective upgrade path. Scheduled for release in 2025, Intel may reveal additional models and performance metrics to bolster this lineup.