Core i7-4790K
Intel
PassMark
8,063
MSRP
$350
AVG Price
$93
Performance Spectrum - CPU
About PassMark
PassMark CPU Mark evaluates processor speed through complex mathematical computations. It provides a reliable metric to compare multi-core performance, where higher scores indicate faster processing for multitasking, gaming, and heavy workloads.
Overview
The Core i7-4790K is manufactured by Intel. It was released in Junho 2014 (11 years ago). It is based on the Devil's Canyon architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 4 GHz, with boost up to 4.4 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 22 nm process technology. Socket: LGA1150. Thermal design power (TDP): 88 Watt. Memory support: DDR3. Passmark benchmark score: 8,063 points. Launch price was $339.
Value Upgrade Path
This is the official ChipVERSUS Value Rating, comparing raw performance (PassMark) per dollar. Components placed above yours deliver better value for money.
Avg price is the current average price collected from markets across the web.
Performance Per Dollar Core i7-4790K
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i7-4790K across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
Cyberpunk 2077
Destiny 2
Euro Truck Simulator 2
Genshin Impact
League of Legends
Monster Hunter Wilds
Naraka: Bladepoint
Overwatch 2
Path of Exile 2
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i7-4790K specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i7-4790K is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Devil's Canyon architecture, manufactured on a 22 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.4 GHz from a base frequency of 4 GHz— higher boost clocks directly translate to better single-threaded performance and responsiveness in gaming. It carries 8 MB (total) of L3 cache, plus 256K (per core) of L2 cache and 64K (per core) of L1 cache per core. In the PassMark benchmark (a comprehensive multi-threaded test), it scores 8,063, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core i7-4790K |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.4 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 4 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Devil's Canyon |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 22 nm |
| L3 CacheShared cache — reduces memory latency for all cores | 8 MB (total) |
| L2 CachePer-core fast cache for frequently accessed data | 256K (per core) |
| L1 CacheUltra-fast per-core cache | 64K (per core) |
| Die SizePhysical silicon area of the processor | 177 mm2 |
| Transistor CountMore transistors = more capabilities | 1,400 million |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 5 GT/s |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 8,063 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i7-4790K fits into the LGA1150 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR3 memory at speeds up to DDR3-1600 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 32 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth). Integrated graphics: Intel HD Graphics 4600 — allows display output without a dedicated GPU, useful for troubleshooting and light tasks.
| Specification | Core i7-4790K |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SeriesProduct family | Core i7 (Desktop) |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA1150 |
| PCIe GenerationPeripheral interconnect speed — affects GPU and SSD bandwidth | PCIe 3.0 |
| PCIe LanesTotal available lanes for GPUs, NVMe drives, and expansion | 16 |
| RAM TypeSupported memory standard | DDR3 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR3-1600 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 32 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | Intel HD Graphics 4600 |
| Compatible ChipsetsMotherboard chipsets that support this CPU | Intel 8 series,Intel 9 series |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 |
Power & Cooling
The Core i7-4790K has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 88 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core i7-4790K |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 88 Watt |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $93 (MSRP: $350), the Core i7-4790K delivers 87 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #1452 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i7-4790K |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $350 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $93 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $339 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1452 |
| Release DateLaunch date | Junho 2014 (11 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2014 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
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Our Recommendation for Core i7-4790K
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
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