CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-4790 vs Intel Core i7-5775C
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.
4 cores handle office tasks effortlessly, but lack modern IPC.
Gaming
Bottlenecks modern GPUs; okay for older esports titles.
The eDRAM provides incredibly smooth frame times in older games.
Virtualization
Can run basic VMs but limited by 4 cores.
Capable of light VMs, but limited by 65W TDP.
Efficiency
84W TDP is high for this performance level by modern standards.
14nm process makes it incredibly power-efficient.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No dedicated AI hardware
- Slow CPU inference
- No AI hardware
- eDRAM helps slightly with CPU inference
Content Creation
Gaming
- Bottlenecks modern GPUs
- Suitable for older games
- Lacks AVX-512
- eDRAM reduces stutter in CPU-bound games
- Iris Pro 6200 good for older games
- Can be paired with a discrete GPU for better performance
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
- 128 MB L4 eDRAM
- Iris Pro 6200 graphics
- Drop-in upgrade for LGA 1150
- Unlocked multiplier
Cons
- Only 4 cores
- Supports DDR3 only
- Expensive on the secondary market
- Older 14nm 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 i7-5775C
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4790KRival
Desktop Enthusiast
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-6700Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i5-5675CRival
Desktop
- AMD FX-8370Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4790Rival
Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600GAlt
Modern APU with vastly superior integrated graphics.
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative with much better CPU performance.
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 fantastic drop-in upgrade for LGA 1150 systems. The eDRAM gives it surprising legs in older games, though its CPU performance is outclassed by modern hardware.
Best for: Upgrading an older LGA 1150 system for smooth retro gaming.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-4790 or Intel Core i7-5775C?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Intel Core i7-5775C comes out ahead with a score of 8.5/10. 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 i7-5775C?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-5775C leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i7-4790 and Intel Core i7-5775C.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-5775C has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-4790 (84 W), Intel Core i7-5775C (65 W).
Do Intel Core i7-4790 and Intel Core i7-5775C use the same socket?
Yes — all of these CPUs use the Intel Socket 1150 socket, so they share compatible motherboards.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Intel Core i7-5775C posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-5775C (7,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.