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Intel Core i7 4790K Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£110
Avg. price in US: ~$100
PassMark benchmark result: 8063
N. of physical cores: 4
CPU boost clock speed: 4.4 GHz

Intel Core i7 4790K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

4.6

Poor

4.1

Poor

9.5

Exceptional

3.9
Gaming
Score components:
30.0%
4.1
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
3.9
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
5.8
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
2.1
L3 cache
8.0%
1.8
N. of physical cores
2.4
Video editing
Score components:
45.0%
2.6
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
1.8
N. of physical cores
20.0%
2.8
CPU threads
15.0%
2.1
L3 cache

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Verdict

The Intel Core i7-4790K, codenamed 'Devil's Canyon', is a 4th generation quad-core desktop processor built on a 22nm Haswell architecture for the LGA 1150 socket. It features a base clock frequency of 4.0 GHz, a Max Turbo frequency of 4.4 GHz, 8 MB of Intel Smart Cache, and 8 threads via Hyper-Threading technology. Key pros include its high out-of-the-box clock speeds—making it one of the fastest consumer quad-cores of its era—and improved thermal interface material (NGPTIM) for better heat management compared to the i7-4770K. However, it carries a higher 88W TDP and, despite its 'K-series' unlocked status, many users found its additional overclocking headroom limited as power consumption and temperatures spike sharply beyond stock settings.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 4790K

Overall score

4.6

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Popularity

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.

Platform

7.1

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Intel

Processor type

What it is: The kind of system the processor is built for, such as desktop PCs, laptops, workstations, or servers.

When it matters: When you want a processor meant for the kind of machine you are actually building or buying, rather than a chip aimed at a different class of system.

Importance: HIGH

CPU socket

What it is: The physical socket the processor fits into on the motherboard.

When it matters: When you need to make sure the CPU can actually be installed on a specific motherboard.

Importance: HIGH

Chipset

What it is: The motherboard chipset families officially meant to work with the processor.

When it matters: When you are checking whether a CPU will work with the motherboard features and platform you plan to use.

Importance: HIGH

CPU architecture

What it is: The processor family or design generation behind the chip, such as Zen 4 or Raptor Lake.

When it matters: When you are comparing CPUs across generations and want a clearer sense of their design age, feature level, and expected performance class.

Importance: HIGH

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Performance

3.6

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N. of physical cores

What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.

When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 8+

CPU threads

What it is: The total number of processing threads the CPU can handle at once.

When it matters: When you run heavily threaded workloads or multitask a lot.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: 16+

Threads per core

What it is: The number of threads each physical core can handle at once.

When it matters: When you want to understand how much thread-level parallelism each core can provide in multitasking or heavily threaded work.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 2

CPU boost clock speed

What it is: The highest clock speed the processor can reach under boost conditions.

When it matters: When you care about peak speed in short bursts.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >4.7 GHz

CPU base clock speed

What it is: The processor's normal all-core starting frequency before boost behavior raises clocks temporarily.

When it matters: When you care about steadier performance in longer workloads rather than short burst speed alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Cache & Architecture

4.1

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Semiconductor size

What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.

When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <10 nm

Foundry

What it is: The semiconductor manufacturer that physically fabricates the processor chip.

When it matters: When process source, manufacturing generation, or foundry differences matter to your comparison more than day-to-day performance alone.

Importance: MEDIUM

L3 cache

What it is: The total amount of L3 cache available on the processor.

When it matters: When you want better performance in cache-sensitive workloads and games.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=16 MB

L2 cache

What it is: The total amount of L2 cache available across the processor.

When it matters: When you want to compare CPU design efficiency and how much fast intermediate cache the cores have available.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=6 MB

L1 cache

What it is: The total amount of L1 cache built into the processor, which sits closest to the cores.

When it matters: When you are comparing low-level CPU design details rather than the broader performance picture buyers usually notice first.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=512 KB

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Memory & PCIe

4.5

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DDR memory version

What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.

When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: DDR5

Maximum memory speed

What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.

When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=4800 MHz

Max memory speed (JEDEC)

What it is: The highest official RAM speed the processor supports under standard JEDEC settings, before any memory overclocking profiles are applied.

When it matters: When officially supported stock RAM speed matters more than XMP, EXPO, or manual memory tuning.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5600 MHz

Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)

What it is: The highest memory speed supported through XMP or EXPO profiles.

When it matters: When you want faster RAM through memory profiles.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5200 MHz

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Maximum memory capacity

What it is: The largest total amount of memory officially supported by the processor.

When it matters: When you plan a system with very large RAM capacity.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >=128 GB

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Integrated Graphics

6.5

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Integrated graphics

What it is: Includes built-in graphics, so the system can output video without a separate graphics card.

When it matters: When you want the PC to work without a dedicated GPU, or you are building an office, media, compact, or troubleshooting-friendly system.

Importance: HIGH

Integrated GPU model

What it is: The model name of the integrated graphics processor, if present.

When it matters: When you plan to use the CPU's built-in graphics.

Importance: MEDIUM

Integrated GPU execution units

What it is: The number of execution units available in the integrated graphics part of the processor.

When it matters: When you plan to rely on built-in graphics and want a better sense of its light gaming, display, or media capability.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=24

Integrated GPU base frequency

What it is: The base operating frequency of the integrated GPU.

When it matters: When integrated graphics performance matters to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=350 MHz

Integrated media encoders/decoders

What it is: The hardware media formats the processor can encode or decode directly.

When it matters: When you stream, edit video, or rely on hardware media acceleration.

Importance: LOW

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Power & Thermal

5.2

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TDP (Thermal design power)

What it is: The rated thermal design power, which gives a general idea of cooling and power needs.

When it matters: When you choose a cooler or build in a tighter case.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <30 W

Base power (PL1)

What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.

When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <30 W

Boost power (PL2)

What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.

When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <50 W

Tau (power duration limit)

What it is: The time limit the CPU can stay at higher boost power before dropping toward sustained power.

When it matters: When you want to understand turbo behavior under longer loads.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=28 s

Configurable TDP

What it is: Allows the processor to run in alternate power modes instead of being fixed to one default TDP target.

When it matters: When you want more control over heat, noise, and power draw in compact systems, quieter builds, or thermally limited machines.

Importance: LOW

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Intel Core i7 4790K vs the average processor

Why is Intel Core i7 4790K better than the average processor?

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Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i7 4790K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
What it is: Has an unlocked CPU multiplier, which makes manual CPU overclocking much easier on supported platforms.
When it matters: When you plan to push clock speeds beyond stock settings instead of leaving the processor completely at default behavior.
Importance: MEDIUM
Intel Core i7 4790K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
Includes stock cooler
Intel Core i7 4790K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
What it is: A stock CPU cooler is included in the box with the processor.
When it matters: When total build cost matters and you need to know whether separate cooling must be bought right away.
Importance: MEDIUM
Intel Core i7 4790K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i7 4790K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
What it is: Allows memory speeds beyond official stock settings through manual tuning or profile-based overclocking.
When it matters: When you want to push RAM performance higher than stock support allows, especially in enthusiast or gaming builds.
Importance: MEDIUM
Intel Core i7 4790K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
66.8% faster classroom rendering
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,320.7 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
What it is: A Blender render result based on the Classroom scene, used to show how quickly the processor can complete a demanding rendering workload.
When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >1500
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,320.7 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.1,320.7 vs 791.745
10x more popular
Intel Core i7 4790K is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1.000).
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.
Intel Core i7 4790K is more popular than the average processor (10.00 vs 1.000).10 vs 1
19.4% higher user score
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher user score than the average processor (9.55 vs 8.000).
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.
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher user score than the average processor (9.55 vs 8.000).9.55 vs 8
27.5% faster Blender rendering
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (423.2 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
What it is: A Blender render result based on the BMW27 scene, used to show how quickly the processor can finish a heavy 3D rendering task.
When it matters: When rendering speed matters for 3D work, content creation, or other workloads that behave like long multi-core renders.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >290
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (423.2 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.423.2 vs 331.88
16.7% more L3 per core
Intel Core i7 4790K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
What it is: The amount of L3 cache effectively available per CPU core.
When it matters: When you are comparing how much shared cache each core can draw on in deeper technical analysis.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=2 MB/core
Intel Core i7 4790K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core
Unlocked for overclocking
Intel Core i7 4790K has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not.
66.8% faster classroom rendering
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,320.7 vs 791.745). The average processor needs 791.745 for the Blender Classroom test.
27.5% faster Blender rendering
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Blender BMW27 render time than the average processor (423.2 vs 331.88). The average processor needs 331.88 for the Blender BMW27 test.
12 higher clock multiplier
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (40 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
1 wider front-end design
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher front-end width than the average processor (5 vs 4). The average processor uses front-end width of 4.
16.7% more L3 per core
Intel Core i7 4790K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2 MB/core vs 1.714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1.714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
Supports memory overclocking
Intel Core i7 4790K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
Includes stock cooler
Intel Core i7 4790K includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not.

Cache & Architecture

Power & Thermal

Why is Intel Core i7 4790K worse than the average processor?

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Narrower instruction support
Intel Core i7 4790K supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2 vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
6 year/s older release date
Intel Core i7 4790K has an older release date than the average processor (2014 vs 2020).
May 2014
No crypto acceleration
Intel Core i7 4790K does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
2 fewer CPU cores
Intel Core i7 4790K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
15.1% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (411 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
26.6% weaker multi-core performance
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (2043 vs 2,783). The average processor scores 2,783 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
37.5% lower bus transfer rate
Intel Core i7 4790K 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.
37.5% lower bus speed
Intel Core i7 4790K 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.
23.4% lower PassMark score
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (8,063 vs 10,532.5). The average processor scores 10,532.5 in PassMark benchmark.
5.6% lower single-core score
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,389 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
83.3% larger process node
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
60% smaller L2 cache
Intel Core i7 4790K 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.
50% less L2 per core
Intel Core i7 4790K 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.
Less advanced microarchitecture
Intel Core i7 4790K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Haswell vs Kaby Lake).
33.3% smaller L1 cache
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
71.7% fewer transistors
Intel Core i7 4790K has fewer transistors than the average processor (1.4 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
Less advanced foundry
Intel Core i7 4790K uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 22 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
Older DDR support
Intel Core i7 4790K supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
44.1% lower memory bandwidth
Intel Core i7 4790K 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.
45.4% lower memory speed
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (1,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
Lower JEDEC memory speed
Intel Core i7 4790K 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.
50% less memory capacity
Intel Core i7 4790K has fewer maximum memory capacity than the average processor (32 GB vs 64 GB). The average processor supports 64 GB of memory.
Narrower media codec support
Intel Core i7 4790K supports fewer media codecs than the average processor (H.264 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode), VC-1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode) vs H.264 (HW decode/encode), H.265 (HW decode/encode), VP9 (HW decode/encode), AV1 (HW decode)).
95.6% higher base power
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (88 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
95.3% higher boost power
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
No configurable TDP
Intel Core i7 4790K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
95.6% higher TDP
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher TDP than the average processor (88 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
20 seconds shorter turbo duration
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (8 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
83.3% larger process node
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
What it is: The manufacturing process node used to produce the processor, usually expressed in nanometers.
When it matters: When efficiency, heat, and the relative modernity of the chip-making process matter to your comparison.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: <10 nm
Intel Core i7 4790K 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
Intel Core i7 4790K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.
What it is: The number of physical CPU cores on the processor.
When it matters: When you run workloads that benefit from more real cores.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: 8+
Intel Core i7 4790K has fewer CPU cores than the average processor (4 vs 6). The average processor has 6 CPU cores.4 vs 6
95.6% higher base power
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (88 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
What it is: The sustained power target used for longer CPU loads.
When it matters: When you choose cooling and power delivery for sustained workloads.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <30 W
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (88 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.88 W vs 45 W
95.3% higher boost power
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.
What it is: The short-term boost power limit the processor may draw under heavier turbo loads.
When it matters: When you size cooling and power delivery for peak turbo behavior.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <50 W
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 64 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 64 W.125 W vs 64 W
Older DDR support
Intel Core i7 4790K supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).
What it is: The RAM generation the processor is designed to support, such as DDR4 or DDR5.
When it matters: When you need the CPU to match the kind of memory platform you want to buy or reuse.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: DDR5
Intel Core i7 4790K supports an older DDR generation than the average processor (DDR3 vs DDR4).DDR3 vs DDR4
44.1% lower memory bandwidth
Intel Core i7 4790K 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.
What it is: The maximum theoretical memory bandwidth the processor can support.
When it matters: When memory-heavy workloads matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >75 GB/s
Intel Core i7 4790K 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
15.1% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (411 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
What it is: A Cinebench R20 benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
When it matters: When you care about lighter workloads, interface responsiveness, or software that still depends heavily on one fast core.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >600
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (411 vs 484). The average processor scores 484 in Cinebench R20 single-core.411 vs 484
45.4% lower memory speed
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (1,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
What it is: The highest official memory speed supported by the processor.
When it matters: When you choose RAM and want to know the supported speed ceiling.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: >=4800 MHz
Intel Core i7 4790K has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (1,600 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.1600 MHz vs 2933 MHz

Cache & Architecture

Integrated Graphics

Power & Thermal

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 4790K and other processors

Attribute category

Attribute

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 4790K?

High base clock speed of 4.0 GHz with a 4.4 GHz turbo boost.
Improved Thermal Interface Material (TIM) and additional capacitors for better heat management compared to the i7-4770K.
Strong single-threaded performance, making it excellent for gaming and general productivity.
Reliable multitasking, video editing, and live streaming capabilities with 8 threads.
Compatible with both Z87 and Z97 motherboards, providing a solid upgrade path for LGA 1150 socket users.
Includes professional features like VT-d and TSX that were missing in its predecessor.

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 4790K?

Limited overclocking headroom beyond factory settings, despite being marketed for enthusiasts.
Higher power consumption (88W TDP) compared to previous Haswell models.
Onboard graphics (Intel HD 4600) are weak for modern gaming and did not receive a performance boost over the previous generation.
Requires high-quality aftermarket cooling to maintain stable temperatures under heavy load.
Not a substantial enough performance gain to justify an upgrade for users already on an i7-4770K.
Limited by DDR3 memory support in an era transitioning to DDR4.

Expert reviews

pcmag.com

31/07/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K Review

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" is a high-end refinement of the Haswell architecture, offering a 4GHz base clock and 4.4GHz Turbo Mode to directly address heat and performance concerns of the previous i7-4770K. It incorporates a new thermal interface material (NGPTIM) and improved capacitors, allowing for lower operating temperatures and better power efficiency. Key advantages include its superior out-of-the-box speeds, support for VT-d and TSX virtualization features, and a competitive price point for new system builds. However, the processor has limited overclocking headroom, with significant thermal spikes occurring beyond its default speeds. Furthermore, for existing 4770K users, the performance increase is considered too marginal to justify an upgrade.

techspot.com

24/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K Devil's Canyon Review

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil’s Canyon" is a refined Haswell-based processor featuring a base clock increase to 4.0GHz and improved thermal performance via a new polymer interface (NGPTIM). Performance benchmarks show up to 15% gains in multi-threaded applications like WinRAR and Photoshop, while maintaining similar thermals to the 4770K despite higher operating frequencies. Key pros include the same $339 launch price as its predecessor and better out-of-the-box speeds, though overclocking headroom often fell short of pre-release hype.

overclockers.com

12/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel i7 4790K Devil's Canyon CPU Review

The Intel i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" acts as a refined Haswell processor, featuring a 4.0 GHz base clock and improvements to thermal material (NGPTIM) and capacitors for better power delivery. Performance tests showed up to 21% gains in single-threaded tasks and over 10% in multi-threaded work, with overclockers achieving stable 4.8 GHz speeds while running cooler than predecessors. Key pros include high stock speeds and improved thermals, while cons include a higher TDP and limited extra overclocking headroom over the factory boost.

tomshardware.com

10/06/2014

Summary of the review

Core i7-4790K Review: Devil's Canyon Tantalizes Enthusiasts

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" is a refined Haswell-based processor designed to improve thermals and power delivery, achieving a 4.0 GHz base and 4.4 GHz turbo speed through improved thermal interface material and additional capacitors. It offers 10–15% better multi-threaded performance than the i7-4770K while maintaining compatibility with Z87/Z97 platforms, making it an excellent, drop-in choice for new high-end builds. However, the processor provides minimal overclocking headroom beyond its high stock clocks and delivers no improvements in IPC or integrated graphics, making it less necessary for existing i7-4770K owners.

lanoc.org

10/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel i7-4790K Devil’s Canyon Review Are you looking for benchmark comparisons against a specific modern CPU, or do you need help with overclocking se...

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" represents a significant refinement of the Haswell architecture, featuring a substantial 500 MHz increase in stock speeds to reach a 4.0 GHz base and 4.4 GHz turbo, along with improved thermals via a new Next Generation Polymer Thermal Interface Material (NGPTIM) and extra capacitors for stable power delivery. Performance tests show the chip excels in single-threaded tasks and gaming, often outperforming older high-end models, while demonstrating superior thermal management during overclocking compared to the 4770K. While offering exceptional stock performance, high value at its price point, and good Z97 platform compatibility, the 4790K is limited by underwhelming, dated integrated graphics and a 10-14% gain that may not justify an upgrade for 4770K owners.

illgaming.net

27/09/2014

Summary of the review

Tweaking the Tech: Intel i7-4790K Devil’s Canyon Review

The iLL Gaming review of the Intel i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" highlights it as a refined, enthusiast-grade processor featuring a 4 GHz base clock and improved thermal management via NGPTIM, addressing previous heat issues. It offers strong performance for CPU-heavy tasks and gaming, utilizing the existing LGA 1150 socket for a cost-effective upgrade. While praised for its high stock speeds, the review notes potential limitations in games not fully optimized for multiple threads and suggests high-end cooling is necessary for significant overclocking, ultimately awarding it an Editor's Pick for its overall value.

expertreviews.co.uk

25/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K review

The Intel Core i7-4790K ("Devil’s Canyon") acts as a refined, high-clocked successor to the i7-4770K, featuring a 4GHz base speed that delivers strong performance in single-threaded tasks and media rendering. Key improvements include better thermals via a revised thermal interface material (NGPTIM) and added capacitors for stable power delivery, resulting in significantly lower operating temperatures. However, the CPU offers limited overclocking headroom beyond its factory settings and retains weak integrated graphics, making it better suited for new builds than an upgrade for 4770K users.

kitguru.net

22/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7 4790K Devil’s Canyon Review (inc. Overclocking)

The KitGuru review of the Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" highlights it as an improved Haswell-based processor featuring a 4.0GHz base/4.4GHz turbo frequency, making it the first consumer chip to reach 4GHz across all cores at stock. Key refinements include a "Next-Generation Polymer Thermal Interface Material" (NGPTIM) and extra capacitors for better power stability, specifically targeting the heat issues found in the previous i7-4770K. The chip offers ~10% better performance than its predecessor in multi-threaded tasks, with pros including strong stock performance, lower temperatures, and the same launch price. However, the review cites limited overclocking headroom as a con, noting the test sample hit a stability wall at 4.7GHz despite high voltage, falling short of the legendary 5GHz+ overclocks seen on older architectures. Despite this, the chip is highly recommended for new LGA 1150 builds using the Z97 platform.

bit-tech.net

19/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K (Devil's Canyon) Review

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" review by bit-tech highlights the processor as a significant 4.0GHz stock-speed upgrade over the i7-4770K, providing a 7-14% performance boost. Utilizing improved NGPTIM thermal material and additional capacitors, the chip runs cooler and delivers better power stability, making it ideal for new high-end builds, though not a necessary upgrade for current 4770K owners. While offering excellent stock performance and competitive pricing, the chip faced limited overclocking headroom, with many samples hitting a thermal wall around 4.8GHz.

hardwarecanucks.com

13/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Devil’s Canyon i7-4790K Performance Review

The Hardware Canucks review of the Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" highlights it as an enthusiast-focused refresh, offering significant performance gains through 4.0GHz base/4.4GHz turbo clocks and improved thermal material (NGPTIM) to combat previous heat issues. Priced identically to its predecessor, the chip serves as a high-value, fast out-of-the-box option that excels in heavily threaded applications, making it a compelling upgrade from older architectures. However, the review notes disappointing overclocking headroom on air, with limited gains over stock, and suggests that for existing i7-4770K owners, the performance jump is likely insufficient to justify an upgrade. For more details, visit Hardware Canucks.

chip.de

06/02/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K (Desktop Processor) Review

The Intel Core i7-4790K ("Devil's Canyon") is a high-performance, refined Haswell-architecture processor, offering a 4.0 GHz base clock and 4.4 GHz Turbo for demanding tasks. Key advantages include significantly improved thermal management and superior overclocking potential compared to its predecessor, alongside strong integrated graphics performance. While delivering top-tier performance for 2015, the chip faces drawbacks in higher power consumption and heat output, requiring robust cooling solutions.

allround-pc.com

16/08/2014

Summary of the review

Review: Intel Core i7-4790K Devil's Canyon - All-round PC

The Allround-PC review from June 2014 presents the Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil’s Canyon" as a high-performance Haswell Refresh, boasting a 4.0 GHz base clock and a 4.4 GHz turbo speed, which offers a 7% to 15% performance increase over the i7-4770K. Addressing previous heat issues, Intel utilized improved thermal material (NGPTIM) and added extra capacitors for better power delivery, resulting in superior operating temperatures and stability, particularly on the Z97 platform. While suitable for new builds and compatible with Z87 boards, the review highlights that the chip offers only moderate performance gains for existing 4770K owners and retains unpredictable overclocking limits, often failing to reach 5.0 GHz on air.

hardwareluxx.de

18/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K Review - Hardwareluxx

The Hardwareluxx review of the Intel Core i7-4790K ("Devil’s Canyon") identifies the 22nm Haswell-based processor as a refined, 4.0 GHz flagship addressing previous thermal issues with improved internal thermal interface material (TIM). The CPU delivers top-tier, 500 MHz higher clock speeds than its predecessor for gaming and productivity, representing high value without a price increase. Notable cons include high power consumption, with a 88W TDP requiring efficient cooling, and weak integrated HD Graphics 4600 performance. The review highlights the chip's superior overclocking potential and high-voltage stability compared to the i7-4770K, cementing it as an ideal LGA 1150 upgrade.

computerbase.de

13/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K Review: Overclocking 'Devil's Canyon' with Five Coolers", "Intel Core i7-4790K Benchmarked: Overclocking 'Devil's Canyon' with Fiv...

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" launched as a refined Haswell processor featuring a 4.0 GHz base clock and improved thermal interface material (NGTIM) to address heat issues. It provides a 10-15% performance boost over the i7-4770K, running significantly cooler while supporting features like VT-d and TSX. While a strong option for new LGA 1150 builds due to improved stock performance, the chip offers limited overclocking headroom beyond 4.6-4.8 GHz and provides little upgrade incentive for existing high-end Haswell users.

tweakpc.de

10/06/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K Devil's Canyon: A Preview of the New Processor

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" review highlights a refined Haswell architecture featuring a 4.0 GHz base clock and a 4.4 GHz Turbo, delivering a 15% frequency increase over its predecessor. Key improvements include a Next-Generation Polymer Thermal Interface Material (NGPTIM) and additional capacitors, which lead to significantly lower operating temperatures and more stable power delivery compared to original Haswell chips. While offering strong out-of-the-box performance, the review notes modest overclocking headroom, as the chip is already pushed high at stock, and concludes the CPU is more of a "side step" for current i7-4770K owners rather than a necessary upgrade. Copy

comptoir-hardware.com

03/01/2017

Summary of the review

Intel Z270 and Core i5-7600K / i7-7700K Review (vs i7-4790K Comparison)

The review from Comptoir-Hardware analyzes the Intel Core i7-7700K and i5-7600K, highlighting higher out-of-the-box clock speeds and impressive 5.0 GHz+ overclocking potential, along with the Z270 chipset’s increased PCIe 3.0 lanes. However, the review highlights that performance gains are driven by higher frequencies rather than IPC improvements over Skylake, while also noting high thermal output on the i7 and minimal benefits for existing Z170 users. Ultimately, while the chips are strong performers, they are characterized as a refined "refresh" leading to diminished returns for current owners, despite excellent performance in gaming and heavily threaded tasks, respectively.

comptoir-hardware.com

08/12/2014

Summary of the review

The impact of L3 cache size on performance (i7-4790K Test)

Comptoir-Hardware's analysis highlights that increased L3 cache capacity acts as a high-speed buffer for frequently used data, reducing "cache misses" and significantly boosting gaming performance by minimizing reliance on slower system RAM. In CPU-bound scenarios, such as lower resolutions, expanding L3 cache can deliver notable average frame rate gains and smoother gameplay. However, the review notes diminishing returns, where massive cache increases yield smaller, incremental gains, alongside higher manufacturing costs due to increased die area.

tomshardware.fr

29/08/2014

Summary of the review

Review of the Core i7-5960X, i7-5930K, and i7-5820K (including i7-4790K)

The Haswell-E platform (LGA 2011-3) introduced Intel's first desktop 8-core processor, the Core i7-5960X, providing unmatched rendering and encoding performance, alongside 40 PCIe Gen3 lanes, but it requires expensive X99 motherboards and DDR4 memory. The Core i7-5820K was highlighted as the best value option for 6-core performance, while the 5930K offers faster stock speeds and 40 PCIe lanes compared to the 5820K's limited 28 lanes, according to the review. While offering great overclocking potential (4.5GHz-4.6GHz) and massive multi-GPU support on higher-end models, the platform faces high total cost of ownership and lower relative gaming performance due to lower base clock speeds compared to cheaper 4-core alternatives.

hardware.fr

13/06/2014

Summary of the review

Core i7-4790K Review: Devil's Canyon Has Arrived

The Intel Core i7-4790K ("Devil’s Canyon") improves upon the Haswell architecture by utilizing Next-Generation Polymer Thermal Interface Material (NGPTIM) and extra capacitors to enhance heat transfer and power stability, enabling a 4.0 GHz base clock. It offers a 7% to 15% performance boost in multi-threaded applications compared to the 4770K while launching at the same $339 price point, representing a solid value for new LGA 1150 platform builders. Despite the improvements, the chip still runs hot, often hitting 88°C under load, and offers limited gains for existing users due to identical IPC.

hardzone.es

19/01/2026

Summary of the review

Cyberpunk 2077 at 60 FPS on 12-year-old hardware

HardZone tests running Cyberpunk 2077 at 60 FPS using a 2014-era Intel Core i7-4790K, 32GB DDR3 RAM, and an RTX 2060 SUPER, proving that roughly $300 in used hardware can deliver a solid 1080p gaming experience. The main advantages include high cost-efficiency and the ability of older enthusiast CPUs to scale with modern GPUs, provided sufficient RAM capacity is maintained. However, drawbacks include occasional stuttering (low 1% frames) and the lack of support for modern, faster storage standards (NVMe PCIe 4.0) or DDR5 bandwidth.

xataka.com.mx

05/08/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K 'Devil's Canyon' Review

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" is a refined Haswell-architecture CPU, delivering a 4.0 GHz base frequency and a 14% performance boost over the 4770K at the same price point. It features improved thermal materials (NGPTIM) and enhanced power delivery for better stability, making it a compelling option for high-performance computing, note Xataka México and associated reviews. While offering excellent out-of-the-box speeds, the chip is considered an incremental, rather than revolutionary, upgrade, with limited overclocking gains beyond 4.79 GHz under typical air cooling, say Xataka México.

profesionalreview.com

09/08/2014

Summary of the review

Review: Intel Core i7-4790K (Devil's Canyon)

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil’s Canyon" acts as a refined flagship 4th-gen processor, delivering a 4.0 GHz base clock and 4.4 GHz turbo to address thermal and speed demands. Key improvements include enhanced polymer thermal interface material (TIM) and additional capacitors for improved stability. Performance sees a 7% to 15% boost over the 4770K, making it strong for content creation. Pros include excellent stock performance and a competitive launch price for an unlocked processor. However, substantial overclocking requires high-end cooling, and the performance gains may not justify the cost for existing 4770K owners. Copy

xataka.com

07/08/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K: In-Depth Review

The Xataka review highlights the Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" as a high-performance refresh of the Haswell architecture, featuring 4.0 GHz base and 4.4 GHz turbo speeds. Improvements include a new thermal material and extra capacitors, which significantly lower operating temperatures and enhance power stability, addressing issues from the 4770K. Performance tests show a 10-15% increase over the 4770K, providing excellent, efficient processing for power users, though it requires specific hardware to maximize these speeds. While overclocking capabilities are better, the review notes it is not a "miracle" chip, often struggling to exceed 4.7–4.8 GHz consistently. Pros include high out-of-the-box performance and improved heat management, while cons center on stagnant integrated graphics and limited benefits for existing 4770K owners. The processor is considered a strong, cost-effective option for users upgrading from older platforms, as analyzed in the full review at Xataka. Copy

hwupgrade.it

04/08/2014

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K: The Devil's Canyon CPU

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil's Canyon" is a high-performance Haswell refresh featuring a 500 MHz increase over the i7-4770K, delivering a 4.0 GHz base and 4.4 GHz turbo speed, which results in a 10-15% performance gain. Key improvements include a new Polymer Thermal Interface Material (NGPTIM) and improved capacitors, leading to significantly lower operating temperatures. While this chip offers better stability for overclocking, the lack of IPC improvements makes it a better choice for new builds than for existing Haswell users.

tomshw.it

20/06/2014

Summary of the review

Core i7-4790K: Our Review

The Intel Core i7-4790K ("Devil's Canyon") acts as an enthusiast-focused refresh of the i7-4770K, utilizing the same Haswell architecture but introducing improved thermal material (NGPTIM) and extra capacitors for better power stability. It provides a 500 MHz boost in both base (4.0 GHz) and turbo (4.4 GHz) clocks, resulting in a roughly 13–14% performance increase over the 4770K. Despite a slightly higher TDP of 88W, the 4790K runs significantly cooler—approximately 15% lower under load—making it a superior option for stock performance. Overclocking reaches stable levels of 4.6 GHz at 1.27V, providing a more reliable experience than its predecessor. Pros include improved thermals, higher factory speeds, and compatibility with Z87/Z97 motherboards. A key con is that it is not a "must-buy" upgrade for existing 4770K users who already have a stable, manual overclock, despite its improvements.

tweakers.net

03/01/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K Boxed - Vincent Dw - Product reviews - Tweakers

The Intel Core i7-4790K "Devil’s Canyon" is a high-performance, refined quad-core processor featuring a 4.0 GHz base clock, delivering roughly 15% better performance than its 4770K predecessor. It addresses previous thermal issues using upgraded thermal interface material (NGPTIM) and extra capacitors for stable, cooler operation. While praised for its high stock speeds, the review notes limited manual overclocking headroom and suggests it is a better upgrade for new builds rather than existing 4770K owners.

tweakers.net

07/04/2016

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K Boxed Review - Tweakers

The Intel Core i7-4790K, reviewed on Tweakers, is described as a high-performance "Super CPU" offering exceptional speed and long-term relevance, particularly when paired with the Z97 chipset. A major drawback noted is the processor's tendency to run extremely hot, making it poorly suited for overclocking with the included stock cooler. While pros include high out-of-the-box performance and longevity, the primary con is the inadequacy of the stock cooling solution for managing high temperatures under heavy loads.

tweakers.net

28/08/2015

Summary of the review

Intel Core i7-4790K Boxed - Retaliator - Product reviews - Tweakers

The Intel Core i7-4790K is described as a reliable, high-performance CPU with a 4GHz base clock, making it ideal for gaming and demanding tasks. Key advantages include its high stock speed, excellent overclocking potential, and relatively low power consumption for the performance offered. However, a significant drawback is the thermal performance when using the stock cooler, as the CPU runs very hot under load, creating a need for aftermarket cooling. The processor is praised for its longevity, 8-thread multitasking, and compatibility with the Z97 chipset. To avoid excessive noise and thermal throttling, users are advised to replace the stock heatsink.

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