X299

The Intel X299 is a high-end desktop (HEDT) motherboard chipset released in 2017 to support Intel Core X-series processors on the LGA 2066 socket. It serves as the successor to the X99 platform and is designed for enthusiasts, content creators, and workstation users who require high memory bandwidth and multiple PCIe devices. The platform pairs with Skylake-X and Kaby Lake-X processors and is commonly used for tasks such as heavy multitasking, 4K video editing, and multi-GPU configurations.

Memory and PCIe structure are among X299’s defining features. It provides quad-channel DDR4 memory support, enabling high memory bandwidth for demanding workloads. The exact memory capacity and DIMM configuration depend on the specific motherboard and CPU, but the platform is designed to support large memory footprints. In terms of I/O, X299 boards typically offer several PCIe 3.0 slots for graphics and accelerators, as well as multiple M.2 and U.2 storage options. The chipset communicates with the CPU over a DMI link to provide chipset-managed I/O, while the CPU supplies the main PCIe lanes to devices attached directly to the motherboard.

Overclocking is a central aspect of the X299 platform. Unlocked Core X-series CPUs allow CPU frequency overclocking, and motherboard BIOSes commonly include extensive voltage, power delivery, and memory timing controls. This makes X299 boards a popular choice for enthusiasts seeking maximum performance from their hardware.

Market position and lifecycle: X299 was positioned as Intel’s premium desktop platform during the late 2010s, competing with high-end offerings from AMD. Its relevance declined as newer Intel and AMD architectures emerged, but it remains in use in various builds requiring multiple PCIe devices and substantial memory bandwidth.