Quick Verdict
A groundbreaking CPU that brought unlocked multipliers to the mainstream, making overclocking accessible. Still obsolete but legendary.
Overview
Launch
May 30th, 2010
Status
End-of-lifeGeneration
Core i7 (Lynnfield)
Market
Desktop
The Intel Core i7-875K is an enthusiast desktop processor launched in May 2010, based on the 45nm Lynnfield architecture. It is notable for being Intel's first 'K-series' processor, featuring a fully unlocked multiplier. Operating at a base frequency of 2.933 GHz and boosting up to 3.6 GHz via Turbo Boost, it offers 4 cores and 8 threads. The unlocked multiplier was a significant shift in Intel's strategy, allowing enthusiasts to easily overclock via multiplier adjustments rather than relying solely on Base Clock (BCLK) tweaks. It utilizes the LGA 1156 socket and integrates a dual-channel DDR3 memory controller and 16 PCIe 2.0 lanes. With a 95W TDP, it shares the same physical characteristics as the i7-870 but with enhanced tuning capabilities. The 875K lacked a stock cooler, emphasizing its enthusiast focus. Although obsolete, it is a historically important CPU that democratized overclocking on the Intel platform.
The i7-875K changed the overclocking game. By unlocking the multiplier, Intel allowed enthusiasts to push the 45nm quad-core past 4.0 GHz with ease.
It performed identically to the i7-870 at stock but offered vastly superior tuning potential, cementing the K-series as the enthusiast standard.
Specifications
Performance
Identical to i7-870 at stock, highly responsive when OC'd.
Good for legacy VMs.
Handles old games well but bottlenecks modern titles.
95W TDP, but power draw increases heavily when overclocked.
- •PCIe 2.0 only
- •No AVX support
- •Requires discrete GPU
- •No AI hardware
- •Unsuitable for modern inference
Architecture
45nm
Process Node
Lynnfield
Codename
4C / 8T
Core Config
8 MB
L3 Cache
95 W
TDP
Architecture Overview
The Core i7-875K utilizes the Lynnfield die, a mainstream adaptation of the Nehalem architecture. It integrates a dual-channel DDR3 memory controller and 16 PCIe 2.0 lanes directly onto the 45nm die. The architecture employs Hyper-Threading, providing 8 threads on 4 physical cores. The defining feature of the 875K is the unlocked multiplier, a first for Intel's mainstream desktop lineup. This allowed users to increase the CPU ratio beyond stock limits, making overclocking significantly easier and more stable than BCLK tuning. The 875K shares the same 2.933 GHz base and 3.6 GHz turbo as the i7-870. It lacks an integrated GPU and communicates with the P55 chipset via DMI. The unlocked nature of the chip meant it was binned for higher quality silicon, often achieving overclocks of 4.0 GHz or more on air cooling, a significant feat for a 45nm processor.
CPU Design
4 cores, 8 threads, 45nm process, unlocked multiplier.
Memory Subsystem
Dual-channel DDR3-1333 integrated controller.
PCIe & I/O
16 PCIe 2.0 lanes for discrete graphics.
Overclocking
Fully unlocked for ratio and BCLK tuning.
- Unlocked multiplier
- No stock cooler included
- Same high-end performance
Key Highlights
- Unlocked multiplier
- 8MB L3 cache
- High turbo clock
- Historical significance
- Obsolete platform
- No integrated graphics
- No stock cooler
- DDR3 only
History
The Core i7-875K launched in May 2010 as a response to AMD's popular Black Edition processors. Intel had traditionally reserved unlocked multipliers for ultra-expensive Extreme Edition chips, but the 875K brought this feature to the mainstream LGA 1156 platform. This was a watershed moment for the DIY PC market.
Enthusiasts no longer had to fight with Base Clock (BCLK) tuning and PCIe bus stability; they could simply raise the CPU multiplier. The 875K was essentially an i7-870 with an unlocked multiplier, and it was priced aggressively to compete with AMD. It set the precedent for the K-series branding that continues to this day.
While the LGA 1156 platform was short-lived, the 875K's legacy lived on in the legendary i7-2600K. The 875K is remembered as the chip that changed Intel's approach to the enthusiast market, making overclocking accessible to the masses.
Improvements over Previous Generation
- Unlocked multiplier
- No stock cooler included
- Same high-end performance
Alternatives & Competitors
Should You Buy It?
Not Recommended for the right buyer
Legacy LGA 1156 overclocking project.
Avoid if…
- Building new
- Need modern features
- Want NVMe native support
Use Cases
Interesting Facts
It was Intel's first 'K' series processor.
The 875K did not come with a stock Intel cooler.
It was priced lower than the i7-870 despite being unlocked.
It paved the way for the legendary i7-2600K.
People Also Ask
Is the Core i7-875K unlocked?
Yes, it features a fully unlocked multiplier.
Does the i7-875K come with a cooler?
No, it was shipped without a stock cooler.
Does the i7-875K have integrated graphics?
No, it requires a discrete GPU.
What is the TDP of the i7-875K?
The TDP is 95W.
When was the i7-875K released?
It was released on May 30th, 2010.
How many cores does the i7-875K have?
It has 4 cores and 8 threads.
What socket does the i7-875K use?
It uses Intel Socket 1156.
What memory does the i7-875K support?
It supports dual-channel DDR3-1333.
Is the i7-875K good for modern gaming?
No, it lacks AVX and bottlenecks modern GPUs.
What is the max turbo frequency of the i7-875K?
The max turbo is 3.6 GHz.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Core i7-875K support Hyper-Threading?
Yes, it supports 8 threads.
What is the L3 cache size of the i7-875K?
It has 8 MB of shared L3 cache.
What manufacturing process is used for the i7-875K?
It is built on a 45nm process.
Does the i7-875K support Virtualization?
Yes, it supports VT-x and VT-d.
What is the base clock speed of the i7-875K?
The base clock is 2.933 GHz.
What chipsets are compatible with the i7-875K?
P55, H55, H57, and Q57 chipsets.
Can I use DDR4 with the i7-875K?
No, it only supports DDR3.
Does the i7-875K have PCIe 3.0?
No, it supports PCIe 2.0.
Is the i7-875K still manufactured?
No, it is End-of-life.
Why was the 875K important?
It was Intel's first mainstream unlocked CPU, changing the DIY market.