CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4790 vs Intel Core i7-4790T
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.
Good for office tasks but slow for rendering.
Gaming
Bottlenecks modern GPUs; okay for older esports titles.
Low base clock limits gaming performance.
Virtualization
Can run basic VMs but limited by 4 cores.
Limited by low clocks and 4 cores.
Efficiency
84W TDP is high for this performance level by modern standards.
45W TDP was efficient for 2014, but outdated now.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Slow CPU inference
- No AI hardware
Content Creation
Gaming
- Bottlenecks modern GPUs
- Suitable for older games
- Lacks AVX-512
- Low base clock
- HD 4600 is too weak
- Not for gaming
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
- Ultra-low 45W TDP
- Good for silent builds
- 4 cores with Hyper-Threading
- Includes HD 4600 graphics
Cons
- Low base clock
- Locked multiplier
- 14nm process is outdated
- LGA 1150 is a dead platform
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 i7-4790T
- AMD A8-7600Rival
Desktop
- AMD A10-7700KRival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-4590TRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-4770TRival
Desktop
- AMD A10-6800KRival
Desktop
Modern alternative with much better performance and efficiency.
Compare head-to-head- AMD Ryzen 5 5600GAlt
Superior integrated graphics and CPU performance.
- Intel Core i5-12400Alt
Modern 6-core alternative.
- AMD Ryzen 5 4600GAlt
Great budget APU for SFF builds.
Slightly newer alternative on the same socket.
Compare head-to-head
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 highly efficient 45W desktop CPU for its time, but its low base clock makes it sluggish for modern tasks.
Best for: If you are considering the Intel Core i7-4790T today, it should only be for specific budget or replacement scenarios. It is an excellent choice if you are maintaining a small form factor PC for basic office work or as a home theater PC, where its 45W TDP allows for silent operation. However, for new builds, modern processors offer significantly better performance and efficiency. The 4790T is best purchased used or refurbished at a low price. Avoid this processor if you need to do any modern gaming, heavy video editing, or if you want an upgrade path, as the LGA 1151 socket is obsolete.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4790 or Intel Core i7-4790T?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-4790 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 i7-4790 or Intel Core i7-4790T?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-4790 leads with a gaming performance score of 30/100 among Intel Core i7-4790 and Intel Core i7-4790T.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-4790T has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-4790 (84 W), Intel Core i7-4790T (45 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4790 and Intel Core i7-4790T use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket 1150 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.