CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4790 vs Intel Core i7-4790K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-4790 is a mainstream desktop processor launched in May 2014 as part of the 'Devil's Canyon' refresh of the 4th Generation Haswell family. Built on the 22nm process, it features 4 cores and 8 threads, operating at a base clock of 3.6 GHz and boosting up to 4.0 GHz. The processor includes 8MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3 memory. With an 84W TDP, it was a popular choice for gamers and content creators, offering strong single-core performance and excellent multi-threading capabilities. It integrates Intel HD Graphics 4600, providing basic display capabilities. The i7-4790 addressed the thermal issues of the i7-4770 by using improved thermal paste under the IHS. While it has been succeeded by multiple generations, it remains a capable performer for basic computing and older games.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
Handles office tasks well but slow for modern rendering.
Handles office tasks well but slow for modern rendering.
Gaming
Bottlenecks modern GPUs; okay for older esports titles.
Bottlenecks modern GPUs but okay for older 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.
88W 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
- Improved thermals over 4770
- 4.0 GHz turbo boost
- 4 cores with Hyper-Threading
- Supports AVX2
Cons
- End-of-life platform
- High 84W TDP
- No Windows 11 support
- Locked multiplier
Pros
- First 4.0 GHz base clock
- Improved thermals over 4770K
- Unlocked for overclocking
- 4 cores with Hyper-Threading
Cons
- End-of-life platform
- High 88W TDP
- No Windows 11 support
- Outdated 22nm process
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-4790
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- AMD FX-8370Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4770Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4690Rival
Desktop
- AMD FX-8320Rival
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.
Unlocked version for older boards.
Compare head-to-head
Intel Core i7-4790K
- AMD FX-8370Rival
Desktop
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4770KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4690KRival
Desktop
- AMD FX-9590Rival
Desktop
Successor with DDR4 support and better IPC.
Compare head-to-headModern budget CPU that vastly outperforms it.
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 solid 2014 CPU that still handles basic tasks, but struggles with modern workloads and lacks Windows 11 support.
Best for: The Core i7-4790 is a processor that should only be encountered in legacy systems. 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. Avoid buying this CPU for new builds. It is best utilized by keeping existing hardware alive for light duties.
Read the full reviewA legendary CPU that was the first to hit 4.0 GHz base. It still holds up for basic use but is outdated for modern gaming.
Best for: The Core i7-4790K 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. 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 offer vastly superior performance and efficiency.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4790 or Intel Core i7-4790K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4790K comes out ahead with a score of 7/10. That said, the best choice depends on your workload — check the spec and performance breakdown above for gaming, productivity and efficiency differences.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4790 has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-4790 (84 W), Intel Core i7-4790K (88 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4790 and Intel Core i7-4790K use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket 1150 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.