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Intel Core i7 4790K Review | 78 Data compared

Avg. price:~£110PassMark benchmark result:8063N. of physical cores:4CPU boost clock speed:4.4 GHzCPU socket:LGA1150TDP (Thermal design power):88 W

Intel Core i7 4790K Review: Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Processors category and whether it is worth buying.

5.0

▼Worse than 62% of processors

4.5

▼Worse than 71% of processors

9.5

★Better than 96% of processors

4.1
Gaming
Gaming
4.1/ 10
✕
What it is
Measures single-core benchmark performance, peak boost clock speeds, and fast L3 cache sizing critical for high frame rates.
When it matters
When you want to play demanding mobile games, 3D titles, or run graphics-intensive apps smoothly.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
Score components
30.0%
4.4
PassMark single-core benchmark score
25.0%
4.1
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
20.0%
6.1
CPU boost clock speed
17.0%
1.8
L3 cache
8.0%
2.3
N. of physical cores
3.4
Video editing
Video editing
3.4/ 10
✕
What it is
Assesses multi-core benchmark throughput, total physical core and thread count, and cache bandwidth for rapid video rendering.
When it matters
When evaluating how effectively this processors meets your specific video editing needs.
Score distribution
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
Score components
45.0%
3.9
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
20.0%
2.3
N. of physical cores
20.0%
4.4
CPU threads
15.0%
1.8
L3 cache

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Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 4790K

5.0

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Platform

7.1

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Brand name

Intel

Processor type

CPU socket

Chipset

CPU architecture

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Performance

4.2

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N. of physical cores

CPU threads

Threads per core

CPU boost clock speed

CPU base clock speed

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Cache & Architecture

4.2

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Semiconductor size

Foundry

L3 cache

L2 cache

L1 cache

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Memory & PCIe

4.6

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DDR memory version

Maximum memory speed

Max memory speed (JEDEC)

Max memory speed (XMP / EXPO)

?

Maximum memory capacity

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Integrated Graphics

7.0

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Integrated graphics

Integrated GPU model

Integrated GPU execution units

Integrated GPU base frequency

Integrated media encoders/decoders

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Power & Thermal

5.9

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TDP (Thermal design power)

Base power (PL1)

Boost power (PL2)

Tau (power duration limit)

Configurable TDP

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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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3.95x faster classroom rendering
Blender (bmw27) benchmark result
1,320.7
▲ Better than 54% of models
Market range: <97 – >1.3k
This processor has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,320.7 vs 334.1). The average processor needs 334.1 for the Blender Classroom test.
1,320.7 vs 334.1
Unlocked for overclocking
Unlocked multiplier
yes
▲ 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
▲ 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
▲ Better than 56% of models
This processor supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not. 43.6% of processors support memory overclocking.
10x more popular
Intel Core i7 4790K is more popular than the average processor (10 vs 1).
10 vs 1
19.4% higher user score
User score
9.5/ 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
▼
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
Intel Core i7 4790K
the average processor
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher user score than the average processor (9.55 vs 8.000).
9.55 vs 8
16.7% more L3 per core
L3 per core
2 MB/core
▲ 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
Higher base clock
CPU base clock speed
4 x 4.0 GHz
▲ Better than 57% of models
This processor has a higher base clock than the average processor (4x4 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz).
4x4.0 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz

10x more popular
Intel Core i7 4790K is more popular than the average processor (10 vs 1).
10 vs 1
19.4% higher user score
User score
9.5/ 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
▼
▼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
Intel Core i7 4790K
the average processor
Intel Core i7 4790K has a higher user score than the average processor (9.55 vs 8.000).
9.55 vs 8

Modern CPU socket
CPU socket
LGA1150
▲ Better than 57% of models
This processor uses a more modern CPU socket than the average processor (LGA1150 vs FP4).
LGA1150 vs FP4

3.95x faster classroom rendering
Blender (bmw27) benchmark result
1,320.7
▲ Better than 54% of models
Market range: <97 – >1.3k
This processor has a lower Blender Classroom render time than the average processor (1,320.7 vs 334.1). The average processor needs 334.1 for the Blender Classroom test.
1,320.7 vs 334.1
Unlocked for overclocking
Unlocked multiplier
yes
▲ Better than 78% of models
This processor has an unlocked multiplier, the average processor does not. 21.7% of processors have an unlocked multiplier.
Higher base clock
CPU base clock speed
4 x 4.0 GHz
▲ Better than 57% of models
This processor has a higher base clock than the average processor (4x4 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz).
4x4.0 GHz vs 4x3.3 GHz
12 higher clock multiplier
Clock multiplier
40
★ Better than 94% of models
Market range: <16 – >38
This processor has a higher clock multiplier than the average processor (40 vs 28). The average processor has a clock multiplier of 28.
40 vs 28

16.7% more L3 per core
L3 per core
2 MB/core
▲ 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
▲ Better than 56% of models
This processor supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not. 43.6% of processors support memory overclocking.

Includes stock cooler
Cooler included
yes
▲ Better than 74% of models
This processor includes a stock cooler, the average processor does not. 25.9% of processors include a stock cooler.

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

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83.3% larger process node
Semiconductor size
22 nm
▼ 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
▼ 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
No configurable TDP
Configurable TDP
no
▼ Worse than 53% of models
This processor does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does. 52.8% of processors support configurable TDP.
95.6% higher base power
Base power (PL1)
88 W
▼ Worse than 88% of models
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This processor 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
2.08x higher boost power
Boost power (PL2)
125 W
▼ Worse than 82% of models
Market range: <25 W – >150 W
This processor has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 60 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 60 W.
125 W vs 60 W
Older DDR support
DDR memory version
DDR3
▼ 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
▼ 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
▼ 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

Narrower instruction support
Instruction sets
SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, BMI1, BMI2
▼ Worse than 72% of models
This processor 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).
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 years older release date
Release date
2014
▼ Worse than 87% of models
Market range: <2k – >2k
This processor has an older release date than the average processor (2014 vs 2020).
May 2014
2014 vs 2020
No crypto acceleration
Cryptographic acceleration
AES
▼ 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

2 fewer CPU cores
N. of physical cores
4
▼ 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
16% lower Cinebench R20 single-core score
Cinebench R20 single-core benchmark score
411
▼ Worse than 69% of models
Market range: <282 – >775
This processor has a lower Cinebench R20 single-core score than the average processor (411 vs 489). The average processor scores 489 in Cinebench R20 single-core.
411 vs 489
23.7% lower PassMark score
PassMark benchmark result
8,063
▼ Worse than 57% of models
Market range: <2.5k – >32.5k
This processor has a lower PassMark benchmark score than the average processor (8,063 vs 10,572.5). The average processor scores 10,572.5 in PassMark benchmark.
8,063 vs 10,572.5
26.8% weaker multi-core performance
Cinebench R20 multi-core benchmark score
2043
▼ Worse than 60% of models
Market range: <702 – >10.8k
This processor has a lower multi-core performance than the average processor (2043 vs 2,791). The average processor scores 2,791 in Cinebench R20 multi-core.
2,043 vs 2,791
37.5% lower bus speed
Bus speed
5 GT/s
▼ 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
▼ 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
5.6% lower single-core score
Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score
1,389
▼ Worse than 54% of models
Market range: <561 – >2.7k
This processor 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.
1,389 vs 1,471
8.9% lower multi-core score
Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score
4,399
▼ Worse than 53% of models
Market range: <763 – >14k
This processor has a lower Geekbench 6 multi-core score than the average processor (4,399 vs 4,829). The average processor scores 4,829 in Geekbench 6 multi-core.
4,399 vs 4,829

83.3% larger process node
Semiconductor size
22 nm
▼ 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
Haswell
▼ Worse than 69% of models
This processor uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Haswell vs Kaby Lake).
Haswell vs Kaby Lake
50% less L2 per core
L2 per core
0.25 MB/core
▼ 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
▼ 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
33.3% smaller L1 cache
L1 cache
256 KB
▼ Worse than 59% of models
Market range: <128 KB – >1.2k KB
This processor has a lower L1 cache than the average processor (256 KB vs 384 KB). The average processor has L1 cache of 384 KB.
256 KB vs 384 KB
71.7% fewer transistors
N. of transistors
1.4 billion
▼ 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
▼ 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
▼ 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
▼ 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
▼ 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
▼ 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
▼ 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

Narrower media codec support
Integrated media encoders/decoders
H.264 (HW decode/encode), MPEG-2 (HW decode/encode), VC-1 (HW decode), JPEG (HW decode)
▲ Better than 51% of models
This processor 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)).
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)

No configurable TDP
Configurable TDP
no
▼ Worse than 53% of models
This processor does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does. 52.8% of processors support configurable TDP.
95.6% higher base power
Base power (PL1)
88 W
▼ Worse than 88% of models
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This processor 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
2.08x higher boost power
Boost power (PL2)
125 W
▼ Worse than 82% of models
Market range: <25 W – >150 W
This processor has a higher boost power draw than the average processor (125 W vs 60 W). The average processor has a boost power draw of 60 W.
125 W vs 60 W
95.6% higher TDP
TDP (Thermal design power)
88 W
▼ Worse than 88% of models
Market range: <15 W – >90 W
This processor has a higher TDP than the average processor (88 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
88 W vs 45 W
20 seconds shorter turbo duration
Tau (power duration limit)
8 seconds
★ Better than 90% of models
Market range: <8 seconds – >28 seconds
This processor has a lower turbo duration limit than the average processor (8 seconds vs 28 seconds). The average processor maintains turbo for 28 seconds.
8 seconds vs 28 seconds

Video reviews

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

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

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.

Third-party reviews

Based on 3,319 buyer reviews from online shops.

Reviews last updated: May 2026 · How we calculate this

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What we 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 we don't like 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.

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.

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