Intel's anticipated Panther Lake mobile processor, considered crucial, may launch this year with a single model, forgoing the enticing graphics upgrade.
Going Gaming with Panther Lake, Here's the Skinny
Here's the lowdown on Intel's upcoming mobile CPU, the Panther Lake, and some juicy details on the first model set to hit the streets later this year. Buckle up and hold onto your controllers, 'cause this one's gonna be a wild ride!
Whoops, A Single SKU!
According to the grapevine, Intel will only launch one Panther Lake SKU this year. This bad boy is gonna sport four P-cores, eight E-cores without the low-power E-cores, and a four-core iGPU, leaving us a bit disappointed since we were expecting more graphics juice.
When Graphics are Just a Dream
Bummer, you might say, but remember that exciting variant with 12 graphics cores we were hyping earlier? Well, that's not part of the 2025 release. Seems Intel's taking a phased approach, with the initial 45W TDP SKU targeting gaming laptops and high-performance workloads[3][4]. The 12-core GPU configuration dedicated to premium, thin-and-light laptops without discrete GPUs is scheduled for release in Q1 2026[3].
The 18A Node Hiccup
There might be a reason for this phased rollout – Intel's struggling with the production volumes of its brand-new 18A node[1][4]. Cynical industry observers may suggest that Intel's node ain't ready for prime time and the company's just eager to get something based on 18A out the door by year-end to stay on schedule.
But, Where's the Good News?
Don't fret, gaming fans! We're not too far from feasting our eyes on Panther Lake goodness. If the rumors are true, we could be getting our first taste of the 45W TDP SKU and the 18A node as early as Q4 2025!
Hey, if you're all caught up with the latest CPU titbits, why not check out our take on the gaming handheld landscape in the MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM review[2] or its AMD-equivalent rival, the Ayaneo 3[2]? And of course, we've got the lowdown on all things gaming – hardware, news, and deals – right here on PC Gamer!
About Jeremy Laird
Jeremy's been spinning silicon yarns since the Netburst era, and he feels right at home dishing out tech talk on everything from monitor input lag to advanced lithography[5]. He's also got a soft spot for cars and tennis. Catch him in action right here on PC Gamer!
Sources:
- AnandTech
- PC Gamer
- Tom's Hardware
- WCCFTech
- AnandTech
- The upcoming Intel mobile CPU, Panther Lake, might leave some gamers a bit disappointed due to the single SKU launch this year, featuring four P-cores, eight E-cores, and a four-core iGPU.
- Although the initial release of Panther Lake does not include the exciting 12 graphics cores variant, Intel is reportedly planning to release this configuration dedicated to thin-and-light laptops in Q1 2026.
- This phased release strategy might be due to Intel's struggles with the production volumes of its new 18A node, leading some to question the node's readiness for the market.
- Despite these concerns, gamers may not have to wait long to enjoy the 45W TDP SKU and the 18A node, as rumors suggest a possible release as early as Q4 2025.
- In the meantime, tech enthusiasts can delve into Jeremy Laird's insights on the latest gaming handheld landscape in the MSI Claw 8 AI+ A2VM review or its AMD-equivalent rival, the Ayaneo 3.
- Keep up with the latest news and deals in the gaming world right here on PC Gamer.
- Jeremy Laird, an industry veteran, brings his extensive knowledge of technology to PC Gamer, discussing topics ranging from monitor input lag to advanced lithography, while also showing a soft spot for cars and tennis.
