Quick Verdict
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.
Overview
Launch
May 15th, 2015
Status
ActiveGeneration
Core i7 (Broadwell)
Market
Desktop
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 Intel Core i7-5775C is a Broadwell processor for the LGA 1150 socket. With 4 cores and 8 threads, it features a base clock of 3.3 GHz and boosts up to 3.
7 GHz. Its standout feature is 128 MB of L4 eDRAM, which improves both integrated graphics and CPU gaming performance.
Specifications
Performance
4 cores handle office tasks effortlessly, but lack modern IPC.
Capable of light VMs, but limited by 65W TDP.
The eDRAM provides incredibly smooth frame times in older games.
14nm process makes it incredibly power-efficient.
- •eDRAM reduces stutter in CPU-bound games
- •Iris Pro 6200 good for older games
- •Can be paired with a discrete GPU for better performance
- •No AI hardware
- •eDRAM helps slightly with CPU inference
Architecture
14nm
Process Node
Broadwell
Codename
4C / 8T
Core Config
6 MB
L3 Cache
65 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
Fabricated on Intel's 14nm Broadwell process, the Core i7-5775C is architecturally unique. It features a 4-core, 8-thread design paired with 6 MB of L3 cache. The critical component is the 128 MB of embedded DRAM (eDRAM) acting as an L4 cache. This eDRAM drastically increases memory bandwidth available to the integrated Iris Pro 6200 graphics, making it the most powerful desktop iGPU of its era. Furthermore, the eDRAM can be utilized by the CPU cores, acting as a victim cache that reduces memory latency—a feature that gives the 5775C surprising single-core gaming performance when paired with a discrete GPU. The architecture supports dual-channel DDR3 memory at 1600 MT/s. The 65W TDP is highly efficient, and the unlocked multiplier allows for enthusiast tuning. The chip utilizes the LGA 1150 socket, making it a drop-in upgrade for Haswell motherboards, provided the BIOS supports it.
CPU Design
4 cores, 8 threads, unlocked.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR3-1600.
PCIe & I/O
16 PCIe 3.0 lanes.
Overclocking
Fully unlocked multiplier.
- 14nm process
- Iris Pro 6200
- 128 MB eDRAM
Key Highlights
- 128 MB L4 eDRAM
- Iris Pro 6200 graphics
- Drop-in upgrade for LGA 1150
- Unlocked multiplier
- Only 4 cores
- Supports DDR3 only
- Expensive on the secondary market
- Older 14nm process
History
Launched in May 2015, the Core i7-5775C was a highly unusual release. Broadwell desktop chips were scarce, and this specific model became a cult favorite among hardware enthusiasts. Its appeal wasn't just the Iris Pro graphics, but the discovery that the 128 MB of L4 eDRAM significantly reduced frame drops and stuttering in CPU-intensive games, even when using a dedicated GPU.
It was viewed as the ultimate "drop-in upgrade" for users stuck on the Z97 platform, offering a noticeable boost over Haswell i7s. However, its release was limited, and supply was notoriously constrained. It was quickly overshadowed by the launch of Skylake (LGA 1151) a few months later.
Despite its brief time in the spotlight, the 5775C is remembered fondly as an experimental, highly capable chip that proved the value of on-package eDRAM for both graphics and CPU performance in the desktop space.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- 14nm process
- Iris Pro 6200
- 128 MB eDRAM
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Recommended for the right buyer
Upgrading an older LGA 1150 system for smooth retro gaming.
Avoid if…
- Building a new system
- Modern AAA gaming
- Heavy content creation
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
Features 128 MB of embedded L4 cache (eDRAM).
Uses the LGA 1150 socket.
Integrated graphics have 48 execution units.
The eDRAM acts as a victim cache for the CPU cores.
Has a 182 mm² die size.
Launched in May 2015.
Part number SR2AG.
Supports dual-channel DDR3-1600.
Has a tCase max of 72°C.
Iris Pro graphics turbo up to 1150 MHz.
People Also Ask
Is the i7-5775C good for gaming?
Yes, the eDRAM provides incredibly smooth frame times in older games.
Can the i7-5775C be overclocked?
Yes, it has an unlocked multiplier.
What socket does the i7-5775C use?
It uses the LGA 1150 socket.
Does the i7-5775C have integrated graphics?
Yes, Intel Iris Pro Graphics 6200.
What is the TDP of i7-5775C?
65 Watts.
Does it support DDR4?
No, it supports DDR3 only.
How many cores does it have?
4 cores and 8 threads.
Is it compatible with Windows 11?
Officially not supported, but runs perfectly fine.
What is the L4 cache?
It has 128 MB of embedded DRAM (eDRAM).
What is the max turbo frequency?
3.7 GHz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the i7-5775C support Hyper-Threading?
Yes, 4 cores and 8 threads.
Does it support ECC memory?
No, ECC is not supported.
What is the L3 cache size?
6 MB.
What chipsets are compatible?
Intel Z97 and H97.
Is it good for video editing?
It can handle basic 1080p editing, but 4K will be slow.
Can it output 4K @ 60Hz?
Yes, via DisplayPort or HDMI 2.0.
Does it support Intel Optane?
No, Optane support started with 7th Gen.
What is the base clock?
3.3 GHz.
Does it have vPro?
No, it does not typically include vPro.
Is it unlocked?
Yes.