Quick Verdict
A legendary CPU from 2013 that still handles basic tasks, but struggles with modern multi-threaded workloads and lacks Windows 11 support.
Overview
Launch
2013
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
4th Gen Core i7
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core i7-4770 is a mainstream desktop processor launched in June 2013 as part of the 4th Generation Haswell family. Built on Intel's 22nm process, it features 4 cores and 8 threads, operating at a base clock of 3.4 GHz and boosting up to 3.9 GHz. The processor includes 8MB of L3 cache and supports dual-channel DDR3 memory. With an 84W TDP, it was the standard high-end CPU for the LGA 1150 socket. It integrates Intel HD Graphics 4600, providing basic display capabilities without a dedicated GPU. The i7-4770 was a popular choice for gamers and content creators of its era, offering strong single-core performance and excellent multi-threading capabilities via Hyper-Threading. While it has been succeeded by multiple generations of newer architectures, it remains a capable performer for basic computing and older games. It does not have an unlocked multiplier, limiting overclocking potential, but its out-of-the-box performance was highly regarded in 2013.
Launched in 2013, the Intel Core i7-4770 is a Haswell desktop CPU featuring 4 cores, 8 threads, and 8MB of L3 cache. It delivers solid single-core performance for older games and applications. However, its 22nm process and lack of modern features make it outdated for current standards.
Specifications
Performance
Handles office tasks well but slow for modern rendering.
Can run basic VMs but limited by 4 cores.
Bottlenecks modern GPUs; okay for older esports titles.
84W TDP is high for this performance level by modern standards.
- •Bottlenecks modern GPUs
- •Suitable for older games
- •Lacks AVX-512
- •No dedicated AI hardware
- •Slow CPU inference
Architecture
22nm
Process Node
Haswell
Codename
4C / 8T
Core Config
8 MB
L3 Cache
84 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Core i7-4770 utilizes Intel's Haswell microarchitecture, representing a significant evolution from the previous Ivy Bridge generation. Built on the same 22nm process node, Haswell focused on improving instruction-level parallelism and introducing new instruction sets like AVX2, which doubled floating-point integer throughput. The architecture features 4 physical cores with Hyper-Threading, allowing 8 concurrent threads. It includes 8MB of shared L3 cache and a dual-channel memory controller supporting DDR3 at 1600 MT/s. The integrated Intel HD Graphics 4600 features 20 execution units, a step up from previous generations. Haswell also overhauled the power delivery and voltage regulation modules on the CPU die, allowing for more granular power management and faster transitions between power states. This resulted in better idle power consumption. The architecture supports 16 PCIe 3.0 lanes, standard for mainstream desktop platforms of the era. While it lacked the die-shrink benefits of later architectures, Haswell solidified Intel's performance lead in the mainstream desktop market.
CPU Design
4 cores with Hyper-Threading.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR3 support.
PCIe & I/O
16 PCIe 3.0 lanes.
Overclocking
Locked multiplier.
- AVX2 support
- Better integrated graphics
- Improved voltage regulation
Key Highlights
- Was a top-tier performer in 2013
- 4 cores with Hyper-Threading
- Supports AVX2
- Includes VT-d
- End-of-life platform
- High 84W TDP
- No Windows 11 support
- Locked multiplier
History
Launched on June 2, 2013, the Intel Core i7-4770 was the flagship mainstream desktop processor for the new Haswell architecture. This release was significant as it introduced the LGA 1150 socket, replacing the LGA 1155 used by Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge. Haswell focused on refining the 22nm process, offering improved integrated graphics and new instruction sets like AVX2.
The i7-4770 became the go-to CPU for high-end gamers and productivity users, offering excellent single-core performance that dominated AMD's FX-series competition. During this era, Intel enjoyed a near-monopoly in the high-end desktop CPU market. The processor was widely adopted in custom builds and pre-built systems alike.
However, the Haswell launch was not without issues, as early Z87 motherboards faced USB 3.0 bugs requiring BIOS updates. The i7-4770 had a relatively short reign, being replaced by the 'Devil's Canyon' i7-4790 just a year later, which offered higher clock speeds and better thermal paste.
Nevertheless, the 4770 remains a classic Intel processor.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- AVX2 support
- Better integrated graphics
- Improved voltage regulation
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Not Recommended for the right buyer
The Core i7-4770 is a processor that should only be encountered in legacy systems or extremely budget-oriented used builds. 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 like the Intel Core i3-12100. Avoid buying this CPU for new builds. It is best utilized by keeping existing hardware alive for light duties or retro gaming.
Avoid if…
- Building a new PC
- Need Windows 11 support
- Want modern gaming performance
- Require high efficiency
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
It was the first Core i7 to use the LGA 1150 socket.
It includes Intel HD 4600 graphics.
The processor has 1.4 billion transistors.
It was a popular choice for Steam Machines.
The die size is 177 mm².
It supports Intel Turbo Boost 2.0.
It introduced the AVX2 instruction set to the mainstream.
It originally retailed for $312.
It uses the FC-LGA12C package.
The max turbo frequency is 3.9 GHz.
People Also Ask
Is the i7-4770 good for gaming?
No, it bottlenecks modern GPUs and lacks modern instruction sets.
Can the i7-4770 run Windows 11?
No, it is not officially supported.
What is the TDP of the i7-4770?
It has an 84-watt TDP.
Does the i7-4770 have Hyper-Threading?
Yes, it has 4 cores and 8 threads.
Can the i7-4770 be overclocked?
No, the multiplier is locked. You can only BCLK overclock slightly.
What socket does the i7-4770 use?
It uses the LGA 1150 socket.
Does the i7-4770 support DDR4?
No, it supports DDR3 memory.
What generation is the i7-4770?
It is a 4th Generation Intel Core processor.
What is the max turbo frequency of the i7-4770?
It can boost up to 3.9 GHz.
Does the i7-4770 have integrated graphics?
Yes, it has Intel HD Graphics 4600.
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Core i7-4770 released?
It was released on June 2nd, 2013.
What is the base clock of the i7-4770?
The base clock is 3.4 GHz.
How much L3 cache does the i7-4770 have?
It has 8MB of L3 cache.
What memory speed does the i7-4770 support?
It supports DDR3-1600 memory.
Is the i7-4770 unlocked?
No, the multiplier is locked.
What is the die size of the i7-4770?
The die size is 177 mm².
Does the i7-4770 support PCIe 3.0?
Yes, it supports 16 lanes of PCIe 3.0.
Is the i7-4770 good for video editing?
It can handle basic 1080p editing but is slow for 4K.
What is the maximum memory supported by the i7-4770?
It supports up to 32GB of RAM.
Does the i7-4770 support vPro?
Yes, it supports Intel vPro technology.