OVERALL
ALTERNATIVES
SPECS
VS AVERAGE
REVIEWS
Scored using Processors Methodology v1.0
Processors Methodology v1.0
Mathematical & Unbiased Scoring
Products in this category are evaluated mathematically under Frontumo Processors Methodology v1.0 using verified laboratory benchmarks, technical specifications, and authentic consumer ratings with 0% commercial bias.
Explore Processors Methodology v1.0

Intel Core i7 3770K Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price:~£110PassMark benchmark result:6510N. of physical cores:4CPU boost clock speed:3.9 GHzCPU socket:LGA1155TDP (Thermal design power):77 W

Intel Core i7 3770K Review: Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Processors category and whether it is worth buying.

4.7

Overall score

Score
4.7/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the processor's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best processors on the market.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 71% of models
Score components

90%

4.2

Technical score

10%

9.1

User score

â–¼Worse than 71% of processors
4.2

Technical score

Technical score
4.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.
When it matters
When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 79% of models
Score components

60%

3.5

Performance

18%

4.5

Cache & Architecture

10%

4.4

Memory & PCIe

7%

6.6

Power & Thermal

4%

7.2

Platform

1%

6.5

Integrated Graphics

â–¼Worse than 79% of processors
9.1

User score

User score
9.1/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters
When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 90% of models
Score components

70%

9.0

User ratings

30%

9.2

Number of reviews

Based on 540 buyer reviews from online shops.
Read buyer reviews on Amazon →
How we calculate this
User ratings – average star rating across all shop listings, weighted by how many reviews each has, on a 1–10 scale.
Number of reviews – how many buyer reviews the product has, on a logarithmic scale; the 8% most-reviewed models in the category get 10.
★Better than 90% of processors
  • intel-core-i7-3770k
intel-core-i7-3770k

Best prices

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Best rankings

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 3770K

Technical score
Technical score
4.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of the processor's technical performance, covering key areas such as processing performance, core configuration, efficiency, platform support, integrated features, and thermal behavior.
When it matters
When you want to compare processors based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 79% of models
Score components:

60%

3.5

Performance

18%

4.5

Cache & Architecture

10%

4.4

Memory & PCIe

7%

6.6

Power & Thermal

4%

7.2

Platform

1%

6.5

Integrated Graphics

4.2
User score
User score
9.1/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters
When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 90% of models
Score components

70%

9.0

User ratings

30%

9.2

Number of reviews

Based on 540 buyer reviews from online shops.
Read buyer reviews on Amazon →
How we calculate this
User ratings – average star rating across all shop listings, weighted by how many reviews each has, on a 1–10 scale.
Number of reviews – how many buyer reviews the product has, on a logarithmic scale; the 8% most-reviewed models in the category get 10.
9.1
Popularity
Popularity
9.2/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the processor.
When it matters
When you prefer to choose a processor reviewed and selected by many other buyers.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
★ Better than 90% of models
Popularity:
Intel Core i7 3770K has a popularity score of 9.2 points, which is higher than that of 90.1% of products in this category.
9.2
Value for money
Value for money
6.3/ 10
✕
What it is
An indicator that combines the processor's overall rating with its cost.
When it matters
When you are looking for a processor with a good balance between performance, efficiency, and price.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 63% of models
Score components:

60%

4.7

Overall score

40%

9.9

Price

6.3
Brand name
Intel
Processor type
desktop
Processor type
desktop
â–² Better than 56% of models
This processor belongs to the desktop processor class, which is more advanced than that of 56% of processors and equal to that of 37.9% of processors.
CPU socket
LGA1155
CPU socket
LGA1155
â–² Better than 55% of models
This processor uses the LGA1155 CPU socket, which is newer than that of 54.8% of processors and equal to that of 2% of processors.
Chipset
?
CPU architecture
x86-64
CPU architecture
x86-64
â–² Better than 2% of models
This processor uses the x86-64 architecture, which is more advanced than that of 1.7% of processors and equal to that of 98.3% of processors.
Show more
N. of physical cores
4
N. of physical cores
4
â–¼ Worse than 51% of models
Market range: <2 – >12
This processor has 4 CPU cores, which is fewer than 50.7% of processors and equal to 28.5% of processors.
CPU threads
8
CPU threads
8
â–¼ Worse than 46% of models
Market range: <4 – >24
This processor offers 8 CPU threads, which is more than 35.2% of processors and equal to 19.1% of processors.
Threads per core
2
Threads per core
2
â–² Better than 30% of models
Market range: <0 – >2.5
This processor offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.3% of processors and equal to 69.7% of processors.
CPU boost clock speed
3.9 GHz
CPU boost clock speed
3.9 GHz
â–¼ Worse than 65% of models
Market range: <3 GHz – >5.5 GHz
This processor reaches a boost clock of 3.9 GHz which is lower than that of 64.9% of processors and equal to that of 3.5% of processors.
CPU base clock speed
8x 3.7 GHz & 16x 3.2 GHz
CPU base clock speed
8x 3.7 GHz & 16x 3.2 GHz
★ Better than 98% of models
This processor has a base clock of 8x3.7 GHz & 16x3.2 GHz which is higher than that of 98.1% of processors and equal to that of 0.2% of processors.
Show more
Semiconductor size
22 nm
Semiconductor size
22 nm
â–¼ Worse than 85% of models
Market range: <4 nm – >24 nm
This processor uses a 22 nm process node, which is older than that of 84.6% of processors and equal to that of 10.1% of processors.
Foundry
Intel 22 nm
Foundry
Intel 22 nm
â–¼ Worse than 85% of models
This processor is built on the Intel 22 nm foundry process, which is less advanced than that of 84.6% of processors and equal to that of 10.1% of processors.
L3 cache
8 MB
L3 cache
8 MB
â–¼ Worse than 49% of models
Market range: <2 MB – >32 MB
This processor has an L3 cache of 8 MB which is larger than that of 39.7% of processors and equal to that of 11.8% of processors.
L2 cache
1 MB
L2 cache
1 MB
â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
Market range: <1 MB – >16 MB
This processor has an L2 cache of 1 MB which is smaller than that of 66.9% of processors and equal to that of 17.7% of processors.
L1 cache
?
Show more
DDR memory version
DDR3
DDR memory version
DDR3
â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
This processor supports DDR DDR3, which is older than that of 86.3% of processors and equal to that of 13.7% of processors.
Maximum memory speed
1,600 MHz
Maximum memory speed
1,600 MHz
â–¼ Worse than 87% of models
Market range: <1.5k MHz – >6.5k MHz
This processor supports memory speeds up to 1,600 MHz, which is lower than that of 87.2% of processors and equal to 11.4% of processors.
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
DDR3-1600 MHz
Max memory speed (JEDEC)
DDR3-1600 MHz
â–¼ Worse than 89% of models
This processor supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR3-1600 MHz, which is lower than that of 88.8% of processors and equal to 8.8% of processors.
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
2,666 MHz
Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)
2,666 MHz
â–² Better than 89% of models
This processor supports XMP/EXPO memory speeds up to 2,666 MHz, which is higher than that of 89.3% of processors and equal to 0.9% of processors.
Maximum memory capacity
32 GB
Maximum memory capacity
32 GB
â–¼ Worse than 72% of models
Market range: <32 GB – >256 GB
This processor supports up to 32 GB of memory, which is less than 71.9% of processors and equal to 19.5% of processors.
Show more
Integrated graphics
yes
Integrated graphics
yes
â–² Better than 12% of models
This processor includes integrated graphics. 12.4% of processors include integrated graphics.
Integrated GPU model
Intel HD Graphics 4000
Integrated GPU model
Intel HD Graphics 4000
â–¼ Worse than 69% of models
This processor uses the Intel HD Graphics 4000 integrated GPU, which is less advanced than that in 69.5% of processors and equal to that in 2.9% of processors.
Integrated GPU execution units
16
Integrated GPU execution units
16
â–¼ Worse than 56% of models
Market range: <6 – >64
This processor has 16 GPU execution units, which is fewer than 56.4% of processors and equal to 6.2% of processors.
Integrated GPU base frequency
650 MHz
Integrated GPU base frequency
650 MHz
â–² Better than 80% of models
Market range: <300 MHz – >800 MHz
This processor has an integrated GPU clock of 650 MHz which is higher than that of 80.4% of processors and equal to that of 4.6% of processors.
Integrated media encoders/decoders
VC-1 (HW decode)
Integrated media encoders/decoders
VC-1 (HW decode)
â–¼ Worse than 82% of models
This processor supports VC-1 (HW decode) media codecs, which is narrower support than 82.1% of processors and equal to 3.6% of processors.
Show more
TDP (Thermal design power)
77 W
TDP (Thermal design power)
77 W
â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This processor has a TDP of 77 W which is higher than that of 86.3% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% of processors.
Base power (PL1)
77 W
Base power (PL1)
77 W
â–¼ Worse than 87% of models
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This processor has a base power of 77 W which is higher than that of 86.8% of processors and equal to that of 0.6% of processors.
Boost power (PL2)
77 W
Boost power (PL2)
77 W
â–¼ Worse than 59% of models
Market range: <25 W – >150 W
This processor has a boost power of 77 W which is higher than that of 58.6% of processors and equal to that of 0.4% of processors.
Tau (power duration limit)
?
Configurable TDP
no
Configurable TDP
no
â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
This processor does not support configurable TDP. 52.8% of processors support configurable TDP.
Show more

Intel Core i7 3770K vs the average processor

246810TotalPlatformPerformanceCache & ArchitectureMemory & PCIeIntegrated GraphicsPower & Thermal
  • 6.54x faster classroom rendering
    Blender (bmw27) benchmark result
    2,186.2
    Category Benchmark
    Market range: <97 – >1.3k
    This processor has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (2,186.2 vs 334.1). The average processor needs 334.1 for the Blender Classroom test.
    2,186.2 vs 334.1
  • Higher base clock
    CPU base clock speed
    8 x 3.7 GHz & 16 x 3.2 GHz
    ★ Better than 98% of models
    This processor has a higher base clock than the average processor (8x3.7 GHz & 16x3.2 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz).
    8x3.7 GHz & 16x3.2 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Unlocked multiplier
    yes
    â–² Better than 78% of models
    This processor has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not. 21.7% of processors have an unlocked multiplier.
  • Includes stock cooler
    Cooler included
    yes
    â–² Better than 74% of models
    This processor includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not. 25.9% of processors include a stock cooler.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Memory overclocking
    yes
    â–² Better than 56% of models
    This processor supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not. 43.6% of processors support memory overclocking.
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Maximum operating temperature (TJ Max)
    105 °C
    â–² Better than 84% of models
    Market range: <95 °C – >105 °C
    This processor has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
    105 °C vs 100 °C
  • 9.25x more popular
    Intel Core i7 3770K is more popular than the average processor (9.25 vs 1).
    9.25 vs 1
  • 13.5% higher user score
    User score
    9.1/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Intel Core i7 3770K
    the average processor
    Intel Core i7 3770K has a higher user score than the average processor (9.08 vs 8.000).
    9.08 vs 8
  • 9.25x more popular
    Intel Core i7 3770K is more popular than the average processor (9.25 vs 1).
    9.25 vs 1
  • 13.5% higher user score
    User score
    9.1/ 10
    ✕
    What it is
    A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the processor.
    When it matters
    When you want to know how a processor performs in real workloads and how reliable it is for gaming, productivity, and efficiency according to user feedback.
    Score distribution
    â–¼
    â–¼
    <55-66-77-88-99-10
    Intel Core i7 3770K
    the average processor
    Intel Core i7 3770K has a higher user score than the average processor (9.08 vs 8.000).
    9.08 vs 8
  • 6.54x faster classroom rendering
    Blender (bmw27) benchmark result
    2,186.2
    Category Benchmark
    Market range: <97 – >1.3k
    This processor has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (2,186.2 vs 334.1). The average processor needs 334.1 for the Blender Classroom test.
    2,186.2 vs 334.1
  • Higher base clock
    CPU base clock speed
    8 x 3.7 GHz & 16 x 3.2 GHz
    ★ Better than 98% of models
    This processor has a higher base clock than the average processor (8x3.7 GHz & 16x3.2 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz).
    8x3.7 GHz & 16x3.2 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz
  • Unlocked for overclocking
    Unlocked multiplier
    yes
    â–² Better than 78% of models
    This processor has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not. 21.7% of processors have an unlocked multiplier.
  • 16.7% more L3 per core
    L3 per core
    2 MB/core
    â–² Better than 52% of models
    Market range: <1 MB/core – >3 MB/core
    This processor has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.7 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
    2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Memory overclocking
    yes
    â–² Better than 56% of models
    This processor supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not. 43.6% of processors support memory overclocking.
  • 85.7% higher GPU clock speed
    Integrated GPU base frequency
    650 MHz
    â–² Better than 80% of models
    Market range: <300 MHz – >800 MHz
    This processor has a higher integrated GPU frequency than the average processor (650 MHz vs 350 MHz). The average processor has integrated GPU frequency of 350 MHz.
    650 MHz vs 350 MHz
  • Includes stock cooler
    Cooler included
    yes
    â–² Better than 74% of models
    This processor includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not. 25.9% of processors include a stock cooler.
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Maximum operating temperature (TJ Max)
    105 °C
    â–² Better than 84% of models
    Market range: <95 °C – >105 °C
    This processor has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
    105 °C vs 100 °C
  • 51.8% lower single-core score
    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
    709
    â–¼ Worse than 84% of models
    Market range: <561 – >2.7k
    This processor has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (709 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    709 vs 1,471
  • 41.5% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Cinebench R20 single-core benchmark score
    286
    â–¼ Worse than 90% of models
    Market range: <282 – >775
    This processor has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (286 vs 489). The average processor scores 489 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
    286 vs 489
  • 83.3% larger process node
    Semiconductor size
    22 nm
    â–¼ Worse than 85% of models
    Market range: <4 nm – >24 nm
    This processor has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    22 nm vs 12 nm
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    N. of physical cores
    4
    â–¼ Worse than 51% of models
    Market range: <2 – >12
    This processor has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    4 vs 6
  • 50.8% lower multi-core score
    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
    2,374
    â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
    Market range: <763 – >14k
    This processor has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,374 vs 4,829). The average processor scores 4,829 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    2,374 vs 4,829
  • 50.2% weaker multi-core performance
    Cinebench R20 multi-core benchmark score
    1,391
    â–¼ Worse than 74% of models
    Market range: <702 – >10.8k
    This processor has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,391 vs 2,791). The average processor scores 2,791 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    1,391 vs 2,791
  • No configurable TDP
    Configurable TDP
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
    This processor does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does. 52.8% of processors support configurable TDP.
  • 38.4% lower PassMark score
    PassMark benchmark result
    6,510
    â–¼ Worse than 64% of models
    Market range: <2.5k – >32.5k
    This processor has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (6,510 vs 10,572.5). The average processor scores 10,572.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    6,510 vs 10,572.5
  • 8 years older release date
    Release date
    2012
    â–¼ Worse than 95% of models
    Market range: <2k – >2k
    This processor has an older release date than the average processor (2012 vs 2020).
    April 2012
    2012 vs 2020
  • Narrower instruction support
    Instruction sets
    MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, F16C, AES
    â–¼ Worse than 69% of models
    This processor supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, F16C, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
    MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, F16C, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA
  • No crypto acceleration
    Cryptographic acceleration
    AES
    â–¼ Worse than 65% of models
    This processor does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does. 0.00% of processors include crypto acceleration.
    AES vs AES, SHA
  • 51.8% lower single-core score
    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
    709
    â–¼ Worse than 84% of models
    Market range: <561 – >2.7k
    This processor has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (709 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    709 vs 1,471
  • 41.5% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
    Cinebench R20 single-core benchmark score
    286
    â–¼ Worse than 90% of models
    Market range: <282 – >775
    This processor has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (286 vs 489). The average processor scores 489 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
    286 vs 489
  • 2 fewer CPU cores
    N. of physical cores
    4
    â–¼ Worse than 51% of models
    Market range: <2 – >12
    This processor has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
    4 vs 6
  • 50.8% lower multi-core score
    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
    2,374
    â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
    Market range: <763 – >14k
    This processor has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (2,374 vs 4,829). The average processor scores 4,829 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
    2,374 vs 4,829
  • 50.2% weaker multi-core performance
    Cinebench R20 multi-core benchmark score
    1,391
    â–¼ Worse than 74% of models
    Market range: <702 – >10.8k
    This processor has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (1,391 vs 2,791). The average processor scores 2,791 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
    1,391 vs 2,791
  • 38.4% lower PassMark score
    PassMark benchmark result
    6,510
    â–¼ Worse than 64% of models
    Market range: <2.5k – >32.5k
    This processor has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (6,510 vs 10,572.5). The average processor scores 10,572.5 in PassMark benchmark.
    6,510 vs 10,572.5
  • 17% weaker single-core performance
    PassMark single-core benchmark score
    2075
    â–¼ Worse than 66% of models
    Market range: <1.4k – >4k
    This processor has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2075 vs 2,500). The average processor scores 2,500 in PassMark single-core.
    2,075 vs 2,500
  • 9.3% lower boost clock
    CPU boost clock speed
    3.9 GHz
    â–¼ Worse than 65% of models
    Market range: <3 GHz – >5.5 GHz
    This processor has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    3.9 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 37.5% lower bus speed
    Bus speed
    5 GT/s
    â–¼ Worse than 56% of models
    Market range: <3 GT/s – >8 GT/s
    This processor has a lower bus speed than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor runs at bus speed of 8 GT/s.
    5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s
  • 37.5% lower bus transfer rate
    Bus transfer rate
    5 GT/s
    â–¼ Worse than 62% of models
    Market range: <4 GT/s – >19 GT/s
    This processor has a lower bus transfer rate than the average processor (5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s). The average processor offers bus transfer rate of 8 GT/s.
    5 GT/s vs 8 GT/s
  • 83.3% larger process node
    Semiconductor size
    22 nm
    â–¼ Worse than 85% of models
    Market range: <4 nm – >24 nm
    This processor has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
    22 nm vs 12 nm
  • Less advanced microarchitecture
    Microarchitecture codename
    Ivy Bridge
    â–¼ Worse than 75% of models
    This processor uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Ivy Bridge vs Kaby Lake).
    Ivy Bridge vs Kaby Lake
  • 50% less L2 per core
    L2 per core
    0.25 MB/core
    â–¼ Worse than 63% of models
    Market range: <0.25 MB/core – >2 MB/core
    This processor has less L2 cache per core than the average processor (0.3 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core). The average processor provides 0.5 MB/core of L2 cache per core.
    0.25 MB/core vs 0.5 MB/core
  • 60% smaller L2 cache
    L2 cache
    1 MB
    â–¼ Worse than 67% of models
    Market range: <1 MB – >16 MB
    This processor has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
    1 MB vs 2.5 MB
  • 71.7% fewer transistors
    N. of transistors
    1.4 billion
    â–¼ Worse than 74% of models
    Market range: <1.303 billion – >25 billion
    This processor has fewer transistors than the average processor (1.4 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
    1.4 billion vs 4.95 billion
  • Less advanced foundry
    Foundry
    Intel 22 nm
    â–¼ Worse than 85% of models
    This processor uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 22 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
    Intel 22 nm vs Intel 14 nm
  • Older DDR support
    DDR memory version
    DDR3
    â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
    This processor supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
    DDR3 vs DDR4
  • 44.1% lower memory bandwidth
    Maximum memory bandwidth
    25.6 GB/s
    â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
    Market range: <25 GB/s – >100 GB/s
    This processor has a lower memory bandwidth than the average processor (25.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
    25.6 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s
  • 45.4% lower memory speed
    Maximum memory speed
    1,600 MHz
    â–¼ Worse than 87% of models
    Market range: <1.5k MHz – >6.5k MHz
    This processor has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (1600 MHz vs 2933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2933 MHz.
    1,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz
  • Lower JEDEC memory speed
    Max memory speed (JEDEC)
    DDR3-1600 MHz
    â–¼ Worse than 89% of models
    This processor has a lower JEDEC memory speed than the average processor (DDR3-1600 MHz vs DDR4-3200 MHz). The average processor supports JEDEC memory speed of DDR4-3200 MHz.
    DDR3-1,600 MHz vs DDR4-3,200 MHz
  • 50% less memory capacity
    Maximum memory capacity
    32 GB
    â–¼ Worse than 72% of models
    Market range: <32 GB – >256 GB
    This processor has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (32 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
    32 GB vs 64 GB
  • Limited PCIe bifurcation
    PCIe bifurcation modes
    x16, x8/x8
    â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
    This processor supports less flexible PCIe bifurcation than the average processor (x16, x8/x8 vs x16, x8/x8, x8/x4/x4).
    x16, x8/x8 vs x16, x8/x8, x8/x4/x4
  • Narrower media codec support
    Integrated media encoders/decoders
    VC-1 (HW decode)
    â–¼ Worse than 82% of models
    This processor supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (VC-1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
    VC-1 (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)
  • Inferior integrated GPU
    Integrated GPU model
    Intel HD Graphics 4000
    â–¼ Worse than 69% of models
    This processor uses an inferior integrated GPU to the average processor (Intel HD Graphics 4000 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630).
    Intel HD Graphics 4,000 vs Intel UHD Graphics 630
  • No configurable TDP
    Configurable TDP
    no
    â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
    This processor does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does. 52.8% of processors support configurable TDP.
  • 71.1% higher base power
    Base power (PL1)
    77 W
    â–¼ Worse than 87% of models
    Market range: <15 W – >90 W
    This processor has a higher base power draw than the average processor (77 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
    77 W vs 45 W
  • 71.1% higher TDP
    TDP (Thermal design power)
    77 W
    â–¼ Worse than 86% of models
    Market range: <15 W – >90 W
    This processor has a higher TDP than the average processor (77 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    77 W vs 45 W
  • 5 °C higher CPU temperature
    CPU temperature
    105 °C
    â–¼ Worse than 84% of models
    Market range: <95 °C – >105 °C
    This processor has a higher CPU temperature than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor runs at a CPU temperature of 100 °C.
    105 °C vs 100 °C
  • 28.3% higher boost power
    Boost power (PL2)
    77 W
    â–¼ Worse than 59% of models
    Market range: <25 W – >150 W
    This processor has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (77 W vs 60 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 60 W.
    77 W vs 60 W

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

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Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

P
pcper.com
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K Ivy Bridge LGA1155 Processor Review
tweaktown.com
23/04/2012
Benchmark review · Overclocked CPU
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K is a 4-core, 8-thread chip that overclocks less far than Sandy Bridge, reaching 4.59GHz in testing, and runs very hot.
B
bit-tech.net
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K CPU Review
overclockers.com
23/04/2012
Hands-on review · Overclocking test
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K draws little power at stock and reaches 4.8GHz on water cooling, but Intel's Z77 board limits heavy overclocking.
techspot.com
23/04/2012
Launch review · Desktop processor
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K is a 22nm chip with much better integrated graphics and efficiency, while Intel expects only 10–15% more CPU speed.
tomshardware.com
23/04/2012
Lab review · Desktop CPU
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K is a small step up from Sandy Bridge, with its biggest gains in integrated graphics rather than raw CPU speed.
A
aphnetworks.com
27/07/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K Review Are you looking for overclocking guides for this specific chip or modern-day benchmarks to see how it performs in 2026?
cnet.com
24/05/2012
Feature review · Desktop CPU
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K is Intel's best consumer desktop chip, but its gains over the 2700K are small and mostly show up in multi-core work.
T
techradar.com
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7 3770K review
H
hardwarezone.com.sg
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K - A Performance Analysis
U
uk.pcmag.com
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K - Review 2012
T
techenclave.com
09/05/2012
Summary of the review
Intel i7 3770K Ivy Bridge Performance Review Do you need benchmarks for specific software or gaming titles from this era to help with a retro build?
servethehome.com
14/05/2012
Benchmark review · Workstation CPU
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K uses less power and has much better onboard graphics, but Sandy Bridge owners gain too little to bother upgrading.
H
hothardware.com
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K Ivy Bridge Processor Review
E
extreme.pcgameshardware.de
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Ivy Bridge Review: Core i7-3770K, Core i5-3570K, and Core i5-3550 Put to the Test
(Translated)Show original
N
notebookcheck.com
02/05/2013
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K Desktop Processor (Review Summary)
(Translated)Show original
H
hardwareluxx.de
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Ivy Bridge Review: Intel Core i7-3770K and all i5 models
(Translated)Show original
C
computerbase.de
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Ivy Bridge Review: From Core i5-3450 to i7-3770K
(Translated)Show original
tech-review.de
03/06/2012
Benchmark test · Gaming and power
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K is the top Ivy Bridge model, drawing 25 W less than the i7-2700K under load, but it runs hotter than expected.
A
au-ja.de
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K - The fastest 'Ivy Bridge' CPU reviewed
(Translated)Show original
A
allround-pc.com
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Review: Intel Core i7-3770K Ivy Bridge
(Translated)Show original
C
computerwoche.de
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
New 22nm Ivy Bridge CPU: Intel Core i7-3770K Review
(Translated)Show original
C
cowcotland.com
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Ivy Bridge Core i7-3770K CPU Review
(Translated)Show original
T
tomshardware.fr
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K Ivy Bridge Review: A Vintage Year?
(Translated)Show original
H
hardware.fr
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K and i5-3570K: 22nm Ivy Bridge Review
(Translated)Show original
H
hardzone.es
05/07/2012
Summary of the review
AMD vs. Intel: Core i7-3770K and AMD FX-8150 Face Off at 4.6GHz
(Translated)Show original
G
geeknetic.es
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7-3770K: 3rd Generation Core
(Translated)Show original
nexthardware.com
24/04/2012
Launch review · 22nm desktop CPU
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K is Intel's first 22nm chip and a good choice for new builds, but Sandy Bridge K owners gain too little to justify upgrading.
hwlegend.tech
21/05/2012
Hands-on review · Overclocking test
Verdict
The Intel Core i7-3770K reaches 4.9GHz on water cooling, but only the unlocked K model has much room to overclock.
T
techzine.nl
23/04/2012
Summary of the review
Intel Core i7 3770K (Ivy Bridge) Review
(Translated)Show original

Third-party reviews

Based on 540 buyer reviews from online shops.
Reviews last updated: May 2026 · How we calculate this
Read buyer reviews on Amazon →

What we like about Intel Core i7 3770K

  • High multitasking performance due to 4 cores and 8 threads with Hyper-threading.
  • Unlocked multiplier allows for relatively easy overclocking (common stable speeds of 4.2-4.5GHz).
  • Excellent power efficiency for its era with a 77W TDP.
  • Tangible improvements in QuickSync video encoding/decoding performance.
  • Improved integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000 (DirectX 11 support) compared to previous generations.
  • Remarkable longevity; still capable of 1080p gaming and general tasks in modern years when paired with a good GPU.
  • Backward compatibility with many older LGA 1155 motherboards (Sandy Bridge era).

What we don't like about Intel Core i7 3770K

  • Runs hotter than previous generations (Sandy Bridge) due to the use of TIM instead of solder under the IHS.
  • The included stock cooler is often cited as inadequate, especially under heavy load or mild overclocking.
  • Only a marginal performance increase over the previous flagship i7-2600K/2700K.
  • Overclocking headroom is more limited and temperature-sensitive compared to its predecessors.
  • Stuck on the aging LGA 1155 platform with no further upgrade path beyond this generation.
  • Limited to DDR3 memory, which bottlenecks performance in modern high-bandwidth applications.
  • Initial launch price was considered high for users already owning high-end 2nd Gen CPUs.

Verdict

The Intel Core i7-3770K is a high-performance quad-core desktop processor based on the 22nm Ivy Bridge architecture, featuring 8 threads via Hyper-Threading, a 3.5 GHz base clock, and a 3.9 GHz Max Turbo frequency. It includes 8 MB of L3 cache, a 77W TDP, and integrated Intel HD Graphics 4000, supporting up to 32 GB of DDR3-1600 memory on the LGA1155 socket. Its main pros include an unlocked multiplier for significant overclocking potential, strong power efficiency for its era, and reliable multi-threaded performance for gaming and productivity. However, it is held back by aging architecture that lacks support for modern instructions like AVX-512, limited PCI Express 3.0 lanes, and compatibility being restricted to older DDR3 platforms and Windows versions prior to Windows 11.

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