CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4770 vs Intel Core i7-4770K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4770 is a mainstream desktop processor launched in June 2013 as part of the 4th Generation Haswell family. Built on Intel's 22nm process, it features 4 cores and 8 threads, operating at a base clock of 3.4 GHz and boosting up to 3.9 GHz. The processor includes 8MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3 memory. With an 84W TDP, it was the standard high-end CPU for the LGA 1150 socket. It integrates Intel HD Graphics 4600, providing basic display capabilities without a dedicated GPU. The i7-4770 was a popular choice for gamers and content creators of its era, offering strong single-core performance and excellent multi-threading capabilities via Hyper-Threading. While it has been succeeded by multiple generations of newer architectures, it remains a capable performer for basic computing and older games. It does not have an unlocked multiplier, limiting overclocking potential, but its out-of-the-box performance was highly regarded in 2013.
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles office tasks well but slow for modern rendering.
Okay for basic tasks, but slow for modern rendering.
Gaming
Bottlenecks modern GPUs; okay for older esports titles.
Bottlenecks modern GPUs significantly.
Virtualization
Can run basic VMs but limited by 4 cores.
Limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
84W TDP is high for this performance level by modern standards.
84W TDP is inefficient by modern standards.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Slow CPU inference
- No AI hardware
- Slow CPU inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Bottlenecks modern GPUs
- Suitable for older games
- Lacks AVX-512
- Bottlenecks modern GPUs
- Okay for older games
- Lacks modern security features
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- Was a top-tier performer in 2013
- 4 cores with Hyper-Threading
- Supports AVX2
- Includes VT-d
Cons
- End-of-life platform
- High 84W TDP
- No Windows 11 support
- Locked multiplier
Pros
- Unlocked for overclocking
- Was a top gaming CPU in 2013
- Supports AVX2
- 4 cores with Hyper-Threading
Cons
- Infamous for poor thermal paste
- Runs hot under load
- No Windows 11 support
- End-of-life platform
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-4770
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- AMD FX-8320Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4670Rival
Desktop
- AMD FX-6300Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-3770Rival
Desktop
Modern budget CPU that vastly outperforms it.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Excellent budget modern alternative.
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Best value modern gaming CPU.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500Alt
Cheap and highly capable.
Slightly faster drop-in upgrade for old boards.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-4770K
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- AMD FX-9370Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-3770KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4670KRival
Desktop
- AMD FX-8320Rival
Desktop
The 'Devil's Canyon' refresh with better thermals and higher clocks.
Compare head-to-headModern budget CPU that destroys it in performance.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Modern budget alternative with 6 cores.
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Best value modern gaming CPU.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500Alt
Cheap and highly capable.
Our Verdict on Each
A legendary CPU from 2013 that still handles basic tasks, but struggles with modern multi-threaded workloads and lacks Windows 11 support.
Best for: The Core i7-4770 is a processor that should only be encountered in legacy systems or extremely budget-oriented used builds. If you already own a motherboard with this chip, it can still serve adequately for basic web browsing, office applications, and older games. However, it is not recommended for purchase today. The LGA 1150 platform is dead, meaning there is no upgrade path. Additionally, the lack of official Windows 11 support and high 84W TDP make it inefficient compared to modern budget processors like the Intel Core i3-12100. Avoid buying this CPU for new builds. It is best utilized by keeping existing hardware alive for light duties or retro gaming.
Read the full reviewA legendary overclocking CPU that brought great performance, but its thermal issues and age make it obsolete today.
Best for: The Core i7-4770K is a legendary processor that should only be considered today if you are maintaining an existing LGA 1150 system. It still offers decent performance for basic computing and older games, and its unlocked multiplier allows for some overclocking fun if you have adequate cooling. However, it is not recommended for new builds. The lack of Windows 11 support, high power consumption, and outdated instruction sets make it a poor choice for modern workloads. If you are building a budget PC, modern processors like the Intel Core i3-12100F offer vastly superior performance, efficiency, and an upgrade path. Avoid buying this CPU unless it is nearly free and you need to keep an old system running.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Do Intel Core i7-4770 and Intel Core i7-4770K use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket 1150 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.