CPU Comparison
Intel Core i7-5820K vs Core i7-4820K
A side-by-side comparison of specs, performance and value. The Intel Core i7-5820K is a high-end desktop (HEDT) processor built on the Haswell-E architecture. Designed for enthusiasts and professionals, it features six cores and twelve threads, offering a significant multi-threaded performance leap over mainstream quad-core CPUs of its era. Operating at a base frequency of 3.3 GHz and boosting up to 3.6 GHz, it delivers robust computing power for demanding applications. Unlike mainstream chips, it utilizes the LGA 2011-v3 socket and the X99 chipset, supporting quad-channel DDR4 memory for massive memory bandwidth. With 28 PCIe 3.0 lanes, it provides extensive expansion capabilities for multi-GPU setups and high-speed storage arrays. The 140-watt TDP reflects its workstation-class design. While it lacks integrated graphics, requiring a discrete GPU, the 5820K excels in parallel processing tasks like video editing, 3D rendering, and virtualization, making it a powerhouse for creators who need more than standard desktop platforms offer.
The Bottom Line
Overview & Launch
Specifications Compared
Performance Compared
Productivity
6 cores handle rendering well, but lack the speed of modern architectures.
Quad-channel memory helps with heavy multitasking.
Gaming
Good for gaming, but single-core speed lags behind modern CPUs.
Still decent for 1080p gaming if overclocked, but lacks modern single-core speed.
Virtualization
Quad-channel memory and 12 threads make it great for VMs.
Excellent due to VT-d and 40 PCIe lanes.
Efficiency
140W TDP on 22nm is power-hungry by modern standards.
130W TDP for a quad-core is highly inefficient by modern standards.
Specialized Performance
AI / ML
- No AI hardware
- CPU inference is moderate due to core count
- Can run basic AI models via PCIe GPUs
- No native AI acceleration
Content Creation
Gaming
- Can handle modern games with a discrete GPU
- Lower single-core speed limits high-refresh gaming
- Great for multi-tasking while gaming
- High base clock helps older games
- Requires discrete GPU
- Can bottleneck modern high-end GPUs at 1080p
Industry Impact
Best CPU by Use Case
Target Audience
Strengths & Weaknesses
Pros
- 6 cores / 12 threads
- 28 PCIe lanes
- Quad-channel DDR4 memory
- Unlocked for overclocking
Cons
- High 140W TDP
- Older 22nm process
- Only 28 PCIe lanes
- Lacks integrated graphics
Pros
- Unlocked multiplier
- 40 PCIe lanes
- Quad-channel memory support
- Large 10MB L3 cache
Cons
- Only 4 cores
- High 130W TDP
- No integrated graphics
- Outdated LGA 2011 platform
Competitors & Alternatives
Intel Core i7-5820K
- AMD Ryzen 7 1700XRival
High-End Desktop
- Intel Core i7-4930KRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-6800KRival
High-End Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-5930KRival
High-End Desktop
- AMD Ryzen 5 5600XAlt
Vastly superior single-core speed and efficiency.
- Intel Core i5-12400FAlt
Modern alternative that beats it in almost everything.
- AMD Ryzen 7 5700XAlt
8 cores, better IPC, lower power.
Core i7-4820K
- AMD FX-8350Rival
Desktop
- Compare head-to-headIntel Core i7-4770KRival
Desktop
- Intel Core i7-4930KAlt
6-core alternative on the same platform.
Newer Haswell-E 6-core alternative.
Compare head-to-head- Intel Core i7-3820Alt
Cheaper, older alternative for LGA 2011.
Our Verdict on Each
A solid entry point into the HEDT market, offering 6 cores and DDR4 support, though aging rapidly compared to modern alternatives.
Best for: Upgrading an existing X99 system for more cores.
Read the full reviewA unique entry-point into Intel's HEDT platform, offering excellent overclocking and quad-channel memory, though its 4-core limit shows its age today.
Best for: Upgrading an existing LGA 2011 system.
Read the full reviewFrequently Asked Questions
Which is better, Intel Core i7-5820K or Core i7-4820K?
Based on our editorial ratings, the Core i7-4820K 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 i7-5820K or Core i7-4820K?
For gaming, the Core i7-4820K leads with a gaming performance score of 75/100 among Intel Core i7-5820K and Core i7-4820K.
Which uses less power?
The Core i7-4820K has the lowest rated TDP. Power draw across these chips: Intel Core i7-5820K (140 W), Core i7-4820K (130 W).
Do Intel Core i7-5820K and Core i7-4820K use the same socket?
No. They use different sockets (Intel Core i7-5820K: Intel Socket 2011-3, Core i7-4820K: Intel Socket 2011), so each needs a compatible motherboard.
Which has more cores?
The Intel Core i7-5820K has the most cores. Core counts: Intel Core i7-5820K (6 cores), Core i7-4820K (4 cores).
Which is faster in multi-core benchmarks?
The Core i7-4820K posts the highest multi-core benchmark score. Multi-core results: Intel Core i7-5820K (11,000), Core i7-4820K (14,000). Benchmark figures are approximate and workload-dependent.