CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-5775C vs Core i7-2600K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-5775C is a rare and highly sought-after socketed desktop processor based on the 14nm Broadwell architecture. Unlike its BGA counterpart, the 5775R, this chip utilizes the LGA 1150 socket, offering a unique upgrade path for users on older Z97 motherboards. It features four cores and eight threads, operating at a base clock of 3.3 GHz with a turbo boost of 3.7 GHz. The defining feature is the inclusion of Intel Iris Pro Graphics 6200 with 128 MB of embedded L4 cache (eDRAM). This eDRAM not only supercharges the integrated graphics but also acts as a low-latency memory buffer for the CPU cores, giving it an edge in certain CPU-bound gaming scenarios when paired with a discrete GPU. With a 65-watt TDP and an unlocked multiplier, it is a versatile chip. It represents a unique moment in Intel's history where high-end integrated graphics and eDRAM were brought to the standard DIY desktop market.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
4 cores handle office tasks effortlessly, but lack modern IPC.
Still usable for basic tasks and light productivity.
Gaming
The eDRAM provides incredibly smooth frame times in older games.
When overclocked, can still handle older games well, but bottlenecks modern GPUs.
Virtualization
Capable of light VMs, but limited by 65W TDP.
Handles light VMs without issue.
Efficiency
14nm process makes it incredibly power-efficient.
95W TDP is high, and overclocking makes it worse.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- eDRAM helps slightly with CPU inference
- No AI hardware
- Instruction sets outdated
Content Creation
Gaming
- eDRAM reduces stutter in CPU-bound games
- Iris Pro 6200 good for older games
- Can be paired with a discrete GPU for better performance
- Overclocking helps single-core performance
- Needs discrete GPU for modern games
- PCIe 2.0 limits bandwidth
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
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
Pros
- Unlocked multiplier for easy overclocking
- HD 3000 integrated graphics
- Revolutionary IPC for 2011
- Excellent value at launch
Cons
- 32nm process is inefficient
- Lacks AVX2
- PCIe 2.0 only
- 4 cores limit modern multi-threaded performance
Competitors & Alternatives
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.
Core i7-2600K
- AMD FX-8150Rival
Desktop
Newer Ivy Bridge alternative with PCIe 3.0.
Compare head-to-headCheaper, similar gaming performance when overclocked.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-2600Alt
Locked version if overclocking isn't needed.
Our Verdict on Each
A 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 reviewA historic CPU that brought affordable, high-performance overclocking to the masses. Its legacy is unmatched, though it is outdated today.
Best for: Retro gaming or legacy builds.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-5775C or Core i7-2600K?
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 i7-5775C or Core i7-2600K?
For gaming, the Intel Core i7-5775C leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i7-5775C and Core i7-2600K.
Which uses less power?
The Intel Core i7-5775C has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-5775C (65 W), Core i7-2600K (95 W).
Do Intel Core i7-5775C and Core i7-2600K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-5775C: Intel Socket 1150, Core i7-2600K: Intel Socket 1155), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-2600K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-5775C (7,000), Core i7-2600K (9,800). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.