Core i7-7740X
Intel
PassMark
9,678
MSRP
$339
AVG Price
$150
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 i7-7740X is manufactured by Intel. It was released in 26 June 2017 (8 years ago). It is based on the Kaby Lake-X (2017) architecture. It features 4 cores and 8 threads. Base frequency is 4.3 GHz, with boost up to 4.5 GHz. L3 cache: 8 MB (total). L2 cache: 256K (per core). Built on 14 nm process technology. Socket: LGA2066. Thermal design power (TDP): 112 Watt. Memory support: DDR4. Passmark benchmark score: 9,678 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 i7-7740X
FPS Benchmarks
Predicted performance for Core i7-7740X across popular games. Tested paired with RTX 4090 to isolate CPU performance.
Counter-Strike 2
Cyberpunk 2077
Dead by Daylight
Destiny 2
Euro Truck Simulator 2
League of Legends
Monster Hunter Wilds
Naraka: Bladepoint
Overwatch 2
Path of Exile 2
Technical Analysis
Detailed breakdown of Core i7-7740X specifications and capabilities.
Processing Power
The Core i7-7740X is a 4-core / 8-thread processor based on the Kaby Lake-X (2017) architecture, manufactured on a 14 nm process node. It reaches a maximum boost clock of 4.5 GHz from a base frequency of 4.3 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 9,678, placing it in the Budget performance tier as a Legacy generation product.
| Specification | Core i7-7740X |
|---|---|
| Cores / ThreadsPhysical/logical processing units | 4C / 8T |
| Max Boost ClockPeak single-core speed under boost | 4.5 GHz |
| Base ClockGuaranteed minimum operating frequency | 4.3 GHz |
| ArchitectureCPU microarchitecture design | Kaby Lake-X (2017) |
| Process NodeFabrication technology — smaller = more efficient | 14 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) |
| Bus SpeedData bus frequency | 4 × 8 GT/s |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe operating temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
| 64-bit Support | Yes |
| Windows 11 Compatible | No |
| Unlocked MultiplierWhether the CPU can be overclocked | Yes (Overclockable) |
| PassMark ScoreOverall multi-threaded benchmark score | 9,678 |
Memory & Platform
The Core i7-7740X fits into the LGA2066 socket and supports PCIe 3.0 with 16 total PCIe lanes for expansion cards and storage. It supports DDR4 memory at speeds up to DDR4-2666 (faster RAM improves bandwidth-sensitive workloads), with a maximum capacity of 64 GB across 2 channels (dual-channel doubles bandwidth).
| Specification | Core i7-7740X |
|---|---|
| TypeDesktop or Laptop processor | desktop |
| SeriesProduct family | Core i7 (Desktop) |
| SocketMotherboard socket required | LGA2066 |
| 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 | DDR4 |
| Max RAM SpeedMaximum officially supported memory frequency | DDR4-2666 |
| Max RAM CapacityMaximum installable memory | 64 GB |
| RAM ChannelsDual-channel doubles bandwidth vs single-channel | 2 |
| ECC SupportError-Correcting Code memory — prevents data corruption | No |
| Integrated GPUBuilt-in graphics processor | No |
| Max CPUs in ConfigMulti-socket support for servers | 1 (Uniprocessor) |
Advanced Features
The Core i7-7740X is primarily designed for Desktop. It features an unlocked multiplier, allowing enthusiasts to overclock beyond stock frequencies for additional performance. Virtualization: VT-x, VT-d — enables running virtual machines efficiently (important for development and server workloads).
| Specification | Core i7-7740X |
|---|---|
| Primary Use CaseIntended workload category | Desktop |
| OverclockingWhether CPU clock can be manually increased | ✅ Unlocked |
| AVX-512Advanced vector instructions for AI/ML workloads | ❌ Not Supported |
| VirtualizationHardware-assisted virtualization technology | VT-x, VT-d |
Power & Cooling
The Core i7-7740X has a rated TDP (Thermal Design Power) of 112 Watt — this indicates the amount of heat generated under sustained load and determines what cooling solution is needed.
| Specification | Core i7-7740X |
|---|---|
| TDPThermal Design Power — heat output under sustained workload | 112 Watt |
| Max TemperatureMaximum safe junction temperature (Tjmax) | 100 °C |
Value Analysis
At an average price of $150 (MSRP: $339), the Core i7-7740X delivers 65 PassMark points per dollar. Performance ranking position: #1325 out of all indexed processors.
| Specification | Core i7-7740X |
|---|---|
| MSRPManufacturer's Suggested Retail Price | $339 |
| Avg Price (30d)Average market price over the last 30 days | $150 |
| Launch PriceOriginal retail price at launch | $339 |
| Performance RankPosition in overall performance ranking | #1325 |
| Release DateLaunch date | 26 June 2017 (8 years ago) |
| Release Year | 2017 |
| DesignerArchitecture designer (e.g. Intel, AMD) | Intel |
| ManufacturerFabrication foundry (e.g. TSMC) | Intel |
Similar Performance
Processors with benchmark scores closest to the current hardware, grouped by manufacturer.
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Our Recommendation for Core i7-7740X
Suggested pairings based on performance balance
Minimum (Avoid Bottleneck) (12)
Recommended (Balanced) (12)
High-End (Max Performance) (12)
Popular Comparisons
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Compare Core i7-7740X
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