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Intel CC150 — a unique processor developed by Intel under NVIDIA’s commission for GeForce Now cloud gaming servers.
The model was not intended for retail sale and first appeared in 2020 on Chinese marketplaces. By 2024 it had become widely available and can now be found on many trading platforms.
Specifications
| MODEL | INTEL CC150 | Core i9-9900 |
|---|---|---|
| Architecture | Coffee Lake Refresh, 14 nm | Coffee Lake Refresh, 14 nm |
| Cores \ Threads | 8 \ 16 | 8 \ 16 |
| Memory Support | DDR4-2666 | DDR4-2666 |
| Base Frequency | 3500 MHz | 3100 MHz |
| Max Turbo Boost Frequency | 3500 MHz | up to 5 GHz |
| L3 Cache | 16 MB | 16 MB |
| TDP | 95 W | 65 W |
| Multiplier | Locked | Locked |
| Integrated Graphics | None | UHD Graphics 630 |
| Approximate Price | ~$60 - $80 | ~$250-$350 |
CC150 is effectively a customized variant of the Core i9‑9900, but its parameters were tuned for multi‑tenant game streaming: higher sustained base frequency and TDP raised from 65 W to 95 W. Integrated graphics, unnecessary in servers, was removed. ECC Unbuffered (UDIMM) support is present and — based on community reports — works on most LGA1151 boards (possibly all), but this is not a 100% guarantee: actual ECC recognition/correction depends on motherboard BIOS/firmware. On some consumer boards, ECC UDIMMs may operate in non‑ECC mode.
The turbo/boost policy is configured to hold a stable 3.5 GHz across all cores. This relatively modest frequency targets dense server environments where heat dissipation is challenging.
Another useful trait is moderate VRM demand compared with high‑end K‑series parts: while budget boards with only 3–4 phases aren’t ideal, decent mid‑range motherboards can handle sustained all‑core loads.
How to run CC150 on LGA1151
Like other Coffee Lake Refresh models, the CC150 is designed for 300‑series chipsets (Z370, Z390, B360, B365, H310, H370). No extra steps are required — install the processor as usual.
Running CC150 on 100‑ and 200‑series chipset boards is also possible, but requires modifications to both the board BIOS and specific CPU contacts. These procedures are known as Coffee Mod.
The process involves several stages:
- Obtaining a BIOS dump, modifying it with the CoffeeTime utility, and flashing it back. Flashing method depends on the board and may require a programmer.
- Pin‑mod — insulating and/or bridging contacts on the processor underside. Typically done with Kapton and metallized tape; foil, electrical tape, or pencil graphite are sometimes used. Exact pads depend on the motherboard vendor.
Before attempting any modification, study detailed guides and user experiences. Useful links: linustechtips forum, techpowerup forum.
Overclocking Capability
The multiplier is locked, so even Z‑series boards can’t raise core clocks. A few boards allow modest BCLK increases (typically 103–105 MHz), yielding only ~100–150 MHz — not a meaningful uplift.
The main advantage of Z‑chipsets is RAM overclocking beyond the stock 2666 MHz. Since the IMC is identical to other Coffee Lake Refresh parts, 3,200–3,600+ MHz is realistic with good DIMMs.
Cooling
CC150 isn’t particularly demanding to cool. In most builds, an affordable 120 mm tower with 2–3 heat pipes will keep temperatures well under control. There are many compatible coolers for LGA1151, so finding a suitable one shouldn’t be difficult.
Performance and Tests
Despite its modest frequency, CC150 shows strong results in synthetic and gaming tests. It trails top retail models, but even in 2025 its performance remains very acceptable.
Some synthetic benchmarks:
Gaming performance is solid for current titles at comfortable frame rates. Good GPU pairings include RTX 3060–4060 and RX 6600 XT–RX 7600.
CC150 vs i9‑9900K Gaming Comparison (DDR4‑3600):
CC150 + RTX 4060/4070 Super: Gaming & Synthetic Tests:
Who Should Consider CC150
Upgrading to CC150 makes the most sense for owners of LGA1151 boards currently running entry‑level or mid‑range CPUs — gains over 4‑core models are substantial. If you have a solid Z‑series board and are comfortable with overclocking, stronger options exist for this socket (e.g., i7‑9700K, i9‑9900K, or various Chinese Frankenstein CPUs).
Overall, CC150 offers solid 8‑core performance at budget prices, making it an excellent upgrade for older LGA1151 systems. While it can’t match high‑end retail flagships, its value proposition in 2025 is compelling.
Where to Buy
Most convenient platforms: AliExpress and eBay.