Key Facts
- ✓ Intel's Core Ultra X9 388H chip ran Battlefield 6 at 190 fps on a Lenovo IdeaPad Pro 5.
- ✓ Performance relies on the integrated Arc B390 GPU and XeSS3 AI upscaling with 4X frame generation.
- ✓ Only the X7 and X9 chips in the Core Ultra 3 series feature 12 Xe GPU cores and Arc B390 graphics.
- ✓ Intel claims the Arc B390 is 80% faster than the Radeon 890M and comparable to a mobile RTX 4050.
Quick Summary
Intel's Core Ultra Series 3 processors have demonstrated the ability to run modern AAA games on integrated graphics. Testing conducted on a Lenovo IdeaPad Pro 5 revealed that the Core Ultra X9 388H chip can achieve high frame rates in Battlefield 6. The system utilized the chip's built-in Arc B390 GPU rather than a discrete graphics card.
Performance metrics showed the game running at up to 190 fps in 1080p resolution with high graphics settings. This high performance is largely attributed to Intel's XeSS3 AI upscaling and 4X frame generation technologies. The gameplay experience was reported as smooth, with visual fidelity comparable to a console or budget gaming PC. However, these specific performance levels are limited to the X7 and X9 chips within the Core Ultra 3 lineup.
Performance on Integrated Graphics
The Intel Core Ultra X9 388H chip allows for high-end gaming on an ultraportable laptop. The Lenovo IdeaPad Pro 5 used for testing did not require dedicated graphics to run Battlefield 6. The integrated Arc B390 GPU handled the processing load effectively.
Testing conditions included 1080p resolution with graphics settings set to high. The system achieved frame rates up to 190 fps. This level of performance on integrated graphics is a significant development for portable gaming.
Intel's XeSS3 AI upscaling and 4X frame generation were the critical technologies enabling these results. These features upscale the image and generate additional frames to smooth out the gameplay.
Visual Quality and Gameplay Experience
The visual fidelity of Battlefield 6 on the Lenovo IdeaPad Pro 5 was described as impressive. Environmental details, shadows, lighting, and particle effects appeared flawless. The visual quality was comparable to that of a console or a budget gaming PC.
Gameplay was tested using a controller while the laptop was connected to a TV. The experience was noted for its smoothness, with no perceptible lag. This is a notable improvement over earlier implementations of frame generation technology.
While the testing was conducted with a controller, the report suggests that any input lag might be more noticeable with a high DPI gaming mouse. The system maintained high performance in 1080p, though testing at 1440p was not performed.
Hardware Requirements and Comparisons
The high gaming performance demonstrated is exclusive to specific models within the Core Ultra 3 family. Only the X7 and X9 chips include the necessary 12 Xe GPU cores and Arc B390 graphics. The remaining chips in the series feature only four Xe cores and basic Intel graphics.
Intel has provided performance comparisons for the new Arc B390 GPU:
- 80% faster than the Radeon 890M (found in the Ryzen HX370)
- 76% faster than the Intel Arc 140T
- Performance roughly equivalent to the mobile RTX 4050 GPU
These claims position the integrated graphics as a viable option for gaming without a dedicated GPU.
Conclusion
The Intel Core Ultra Series 3 represents a leap forward for integrated graphics performance. The ability to run Battlefield 6 at 190 fps on a Lenovo ultraportable highlights the effectiveness of the Arc B390 GPU combined with XeSS3 technology. This development suggests that high-quality gaming is becoming more accessible on non-dedicated gaming hardware. While only the high-end X7 and X9 chips offer this capability, the performance benchmarks suggest a competitive alternative to entry-level discrete GPUs.
