Detailed Specs of Nvidia N1/N1X Leaked: Up to 20 Cores and 6,144 CUDA Cores
Specs of Nvidia's next-gen "N1/N1X" SoC family leaked just before Computex announcement. The N1X boasts up to 20 CPU cores and a GPU performance comparable to a desktop RTX 5070.
As Computex 2026 approaches, detailed specs of Nvidia’s long-rumored N1/N1X family have been leaked. The information, which is based on a 2024 document obtained by international tech site Videocardz, highlights Nvidia’s plans to make a significant reentry into the laptop market. This marks the company’s first attempt to sell ARM-based chips for PCs since 2011, drawing significant attention from the industry.
N1X: GPU Performance Comparable to Desktop
RTX 5070 The higher-end N1X model will reportedly come in two SKUs. The fully-fledged version will feature a 20-core ARM-based CPU (10+10 big.LITTLE configuration) and a GPU with 6,144 CUDA cores. This CUDA core count matches that of the desktop GeForce RTX 5070, delivering unprecedented graphics performance for a laptop SoC. The other SKU is said to have an 18-core CPU (9+9 configuration) with 5,120 CUDA cores. Both SKUs will reportedly operate within a power consumption range of 45 to 80 watts, making them practical for mobile use. Memory support appears robust, with LPDDR5X memory configured in 16 channels, supporting up to 128GB at a clock speed of up to 8,533MT/s. This speed surpasses AMD’s Strix Halo platform, suggesting competitiveness in terms of memory bandwidth. In terms of storage and expandability, the SoC provides 12 lanes of PCIe 5.0 and 5 lanes of PCIe 4.0, capable of supporting up to three M.2 SSDs. This level of expandability makes the N1X well-suited for professional creative work and AI-related workloads.
N1: Targeting Standard Laptop Market The
standard N1 model is aimed at a broader range of laptop price points. This model also comes in two configurations: the higher-end version features a 12-core CPU (8+4 configuration) combined with 2,560 CUDA cores, while the lower-end version offers a 10-core CPU (7+3 configuration) with 2,048 CUDA cores. The N1 has a more power-efficient design, operating with a thermal design power (TDP) range of 18 to 45 watts, making it an ideal choice for ultra-thin laptops and mobile devices. Memory is configured with LPDDR5X in 8 channels, supporting up to 64GB. Regarding PCIe lanes, the N1 offers 8 lanes of PCIe 5.0 and 3 lanes of PCIe 4.0, with support for up to two M.2 SSDs. While its expandability is more restrained compared to the N1X, the N1 still provides ample performance for general laptop use.
Information Based on 2024 Documents:
Accuracy to Be Confirmed It’s important to note that the leaked information is based on a 2024 document, so there’s a possibility that Nvidia has made modifications to the specifications since then. Given that this leak has emerged just before the official Computex announcement, the final product specifications may differ. However, reports suggest that the higher-end N1X SKU might share the same specifications as the GB10 chip used in Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang’s officially confirmed DGX Spark mini-PC, lending credibility to the leak.
Nvidia’s Reentry into the Laptop Market and
Its Potential Impact Nvidia’s reentry into the ARM-based PC SoC market could significantly alter the competitive landscape of the laptop industry. Currently, Intel and Qualcomm are engaged in a fierce battle with ARM-based Snapdragon X Elite, while Apple dominates its ecosystem with the M-series chips. Nvidia’s entry could intensify the competition among these four giants. Notably, Nvidia’s strength lies in its unparalleled expertise in GPU architecture, which gives the company a distinct competitive edge. The high CUDA core count in its SoCs could be a significant differentiator in AI inference and machine learning workloads.
Anticipation for Handheld Gaming Devices and
Shield TV The leaked details have sparked excitement in the user community, especially regarding potential new hardware. The arrival of Nvidia’s SoCs could introduce new options to the handheld PC gaming market, currently dominated by devices like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally. The N1’s power efficiency and the N1X’s superior GPU performance make them an enticing combination for portable gaming devices. Additionally, fans are eagerly awaiting a successor to Nvidia’s long-standing streaming device, the “Shield TV.” As a household favorite powered by Nvidia’s Tegra chip, the Shield TV has maintained its popularity over the years. Many hope the new SoC family could serve as the foundation for a next-generation Shield TV device.
Conclusion Nvidia’s N1/N1X family is poised
to bring a fresh dynamic to the laptop market. The N1X, with its 20-core CPU and 6,144 CUDA cores, promises near-desktop-level performance in a mobile environment, while the standard N1 provides a balanced approach to power efficiency and performance for a broader audience. All eyes are now on Computex, where the final specifications and product lineup are expected to be unveiled.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How does the GPU performance of Nvidia N1X compare to desktop GPUs?
- According to the leaked information, the top-tier N1X model features 6,144 CUDA cores, matching the GeForce RTX 5070 desktop GPU. However, differences in TDP and clock speeds mean the mobile SoC may not achieve the exact same performance as its desktop counterpart.
- Who is the target audience for the N1 and N1X?
- The N1, with its TDP range of 18 to 45 watts, is designed for standard thin laptops, catering to a wider user base. The N1X, with a TDP range of 45 to 80 watts, is aimed at creators and AI developers requiring higher GPU performance and larger memory capacity.
- Why is Nvidia’s move described as a “reentry”?
- Nvidia previously attempted to market ARM-based PC SoCs in 2011 but was unsuccessful due to the immature market environment and ecosystem. The current market, however, is much more receptive to ARM-based PCs, making this an opportune time for Nvidia’s return.
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