CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4770 vs Intel Core i7-3770K
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.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles office tasks well but slow for modern rendering.
Handles office tasks but slow for modern rendering.
Gaming
Bottlenecks modern GPUs; okay for older esports titles.
Severely bottlenecks modern GPUs; okay for older esports titles.
Virtualization
Can run basic VMs but limited by 4 cores.
Can run basic VMs but limited by 4 cores.
Efficiency
84W TDP is high for this performance level by modern standards.
77W 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
- Suitable 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
- Was a top-tier performer in 2012
- Unlocked for overclocking
- 4 cores with Hyper-Threading
- Introduced PCIe 3.0
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 i7-3770K
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- AMD FX-8150Rival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-2600KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-3570KRival
Desktop
- AMD FX-6300Rival
Desktop
Successor with better IPC and AVX2.
Compare head-to-headModern budget CPU that vastly outperforms it.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600Alt
Modern budget alternative.
- 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 2012 CPU that brought 22nm technology to the masses, though its thermal issues and age make it obsolete for modern workloads.
Best for: When considering the Intel Core i7-3770K today, it should strictly be viewed as a legacy component for existing systems. If you already own a functional LGA 1155 motherboard, this processor can provide a cheap and effective upgrade from a Pentium or i3, breathing new life into an older rig for basic office work or retro gaming. However, it is absolutely not recommended for new builds. The lack of Windows 11 official support, high power consumption relative to its performance, and outdated instruction sets make it inefficient. Modern budget processors like the Intel Core i3-12100F will outperform it significantly while drawing a fraction of the power.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4770 or Intel Core i7-3770K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4770 comes out ahead with a score of 6.5/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which is faster for gaming, Intel Core i7-4770 or Intel Core i7-3770K?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4770 leads with a gaming performance score of 25/100 among Intel Core i7-4770 and Intel Core i7-3770K.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-3770K has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-4770 (84 W), Intel Core i7-3770K (77 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4770 and Intel Core i7-3770K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-4770: Intel Socket 1150, Intel Core i7-3770K: Intel Socket 1155), so each needs a compatible motherboard.