Intel’s next-gen 18A process is showing promising improvements, with recent reports suggesting it has surpassed Samsung’s 2nm node (SF2) in yield rates – though still trailing TSMC’s cutting-edge N2 process. According to a research note from KeyBanc Capital Markets, Intel’s 18A yields have climbed from 50% to around 55%, which edges out Samsung’s estimated 40%, but falls short of TSMC’s 65%.
While we should treat these numbers cautiously – given their unofficial nature – the trajectory paints a more optimistic picture for Team Blue. Intel’s internal testing suggests that by Q4 2025, yields could hit 70% for Panther Lake (PTL), their upcoming mobile CPU line based on the 18A node.
It’s worth noting that the 18A process is primarily targeted at Intel’s in-house products, giving them more flexibility in fine-tuning performance before releasing it to external clients. 
The broader strategy is to establish credibility with 18A and then aggressively pursue commercial contracts with the follow-up 14A process – aimed squarely at competing with TSMC’s A14.
For Intel, this is more than a specs war – it’s about survival. After years of delays and missed opportunities, delivering on 18A is key to restoring investor trust and strategic leverage in the foundry business. And with Panther Lake on track, Intel might finally be putting its massive fab investments to good use.
Sure, it’s no knockout punch to TSMC yet – but for Intel, even a solid round win matters right now. And despite the occasional chaos in leadership and social media drama, progress on the silicon front seems finally underway.