Leak points to Intel's Moon Lake as N-series budget chip successor
Leaker Jaykihn has disclosed early specs for Intel's upcoming Moon Lake processor, describing a four-core design using only low-power-efficiency cores with no performance cores, and TDPs ranging from 6W to 15W. The chip reportedly shares its physical layout with the recently launched Wildcat Lake and is expected to arrive in 2028.
GoKawiil's interpretation of the reporting above, not reported fact.
If accurate, Moon Lake would replace Intel's N-series chips that currently power many budget laptops and mini-PCs priced around $300 to $500, keeping the low core count but likely benefiting from a newer, more efficient architecture. This could mean modest performance gains but potentially significant battery life improvements for low-cost devices, though pricing and component availability may shift before the 2028 launch.
- Leaked Moon Lake specs show four low-power-efficiency cores and no performance cores
- TDP range of 6W to 15W mirrors existing N-series budget chips
- Chip is expected to launch in 2028, targeting affordable laptops and mini-PCs
Intel N100 Mini PC — If you're curious about the ultra-budget efficiency-core niche that Moon Lake is set to inherit, an N100-powered mini PC is a great way to see today's version of that formula in action. These compact machines deliver surprisingly capable everyday performance for browsing, office work, and media at very low power draw, making them a perfect preview of where low-power SoCs are headed.
See Intel N100 Mini PC on Amazon → Affiliate link — we may earn a commission on purchases, at no extra cost to you. Product picked by AI based on this article; it is not a tested recommendation.Source: tomshardware.com — Bruno Ferreira, 2026-10-30
Published there as: “Intel leaker reveals Moon Lake chip as a likely replacement for N-series SoCs — four lower-power-efficiency cores, no performance cores, and a 6W TDP”
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