Intel Core i9-13950HX socket: BGA 1964
The Intel Core i9-13950HX uses BGA 1964, a soldered BGA for Raptor Lake-HX mobile workstation processors with DDR4 or DDR5 memory. The 24-core business chip at 55 W with UHD graphics cannot be replaced.
- Socket
- BGA 1964
- Launched
- January 2023
- Cores and threads
- 24 and 32
- Base power
- 55 W
- Codename
- Raptor Lake-HX
- Segment
- Mobile (soldered)
- Family
- Intel Core i9
- Clocks
- 2.2 / 5.5 GHz
Intel Core i9-13950HX specifications
| Cores | 24 (8 Performance-cores plus 16 Efficient-cores) |
|---|---|
| Threads | 32 |
| Core architecture | Raptor Cove P-cores with Gracemont E-cores (Raptor Lake-HX) |
| P-core clocks | 2.2 GHz base, up to 5.5 GHz turbo |
| E-core clocks | Up to 4.0 GHz turbo (base not published in opened sources) |
| Cache | 36 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 55 W |
| Maximum turbo power | 157 W |
| Manufacturing process | Intel 7 |
| Memory support | DDR4-3200 or DDR5-4800, dual channel, up to 192 GB, ECC supported |
| PCI Express | PCIe Gen5 with 20 lanes from the CPU |
| Integrated graphics | Intel UHD Graphics |
| Multiplier | Unlocked |
| Package | BGA 1964 soldered |
| Cooler in the box | None (laptop cooling) |
Motherboard compatibility
Intel Core i9-13950HX needs a motherboard with a BGA 1964 socket. Chipset by chipset data for this codename is not recorded yet. See the BGA 1964 chipset list and the board maker's CPU support list.
BGA 1964 at a glance
| Type | BGA, 1,964 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | n/a |
| Introduced | January 2024 |
| Memory | DDR5-5600 or DDR4-3200, two channels, up to 192 GB |
| Cooler mounting holes | Not applicable (soldered) |
What the Core i9-13950HX is
The Core i9-13950HX is the business version of the 24-core Raptor Lake-HX i9 for mobile workstations from the first quarter of 2023. Eight Raptor Cove Performance-cores with hyperthreading plus 16 Gracemont Efficient-cores give 24 cores and 32 threads, with P-cores at 2.2 GHz base and up to 5.5 GHz turbo. The package carries 36 MB of Smart Cache. Base power is 55 W with 157 W turbo for large chassis with desktop-class cooling.
UHD Graphics cover everyday display, while workstation bodies pair it with discrete RTX cards over PCIe Gen5. Dual channel DDR4-3200 or DDR5-4800 to 192 GB with ECC support feeds 24 hybrid threads for CAD multitasking. The business suffix marks fleet firmware for IT buyers rather than higher consumer clocks.
Commercial buyers pick the 13950HX for 13980HX-class threads with business supply and vPro management. Twenty-four threads suit CAD plus background tasks in mobile chassis, while consumer HX parts suit gaming. Boards that support Raptor Lake-HX cover business SKUs with the same firmware. The How to find your CPU socket type guide helps confirm BGA 1964 fit.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 13950HX solders to BGA 1964 on mobile workstation boards with no socketed path. Board makers set memory type, power limits and GPU pairing. BGA 1964 does not cross to BGA 1744 H boards. Maker pages list the BGA package as the fit reference.
Platform IO comes from desktop-derived silicon plus board wiring, with NVMe Gen5, wireless and display outputs from the design. Factory firmware carries Raptor Lake-HX support.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
DDR4-3200 or DDR5-4800 in two channels to 192 GB with ECC support feeds 24 hybrid threads. SODIMM suits serviceable workstations. Dual channel doubles graphics bandwidth.
PCIe Gen5 with 20 CPU lanes wires a discrete GPU and NVMe through board slots. Cooling uses the largest vapour with fans for 55 W sustained and 157 W bursts.
Upgrade paths
No CPU change is possible on soldered BGA 1964. SODIMM and NVMe swaps move where slots exist, while soldered memory stays fixed. A discrete GPU at purchase matters most for CAD.
The 13950HX already tops business HX threads, so upgrades mean memory and storage on BGA 1964. Outside mobile, Raptor Lake-S K-series on LGA 1700 add socketed overclocking.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i9-13950HX use?
BGA 1964 as a soldered BGA for Raptor Lake-HX mobile workstation processors. It cannot be removed or upgraded.
How is 13950HX different from 13980HX?
Same 24-core layout in a business SKU with fleet firmware and slightly lower 5.5 GHz turbo.
Does the 13950HX support ECC memory?
Yes, ECC is supported on workstation HX boards.
Is the 13950HX unlocked?
Yes, HX parts carry an unlocked multiplier for tuning where the laptop BIOS permits it.
Sources and verification
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .