Intel Core i7 5930K Review | 78 Data compared

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  • Avg. price: ~£120
  • PassMark benchmark result: 10352
  • N. of physical cores: 6
  • CPU boost clock speed: 3.7 GHz

Intel Core i7 5930K review. Compare 78 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among processors and if it is worth buying.

5.1

Overall score

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 components:

90.0%

4.7

Technical Score

10.0%

8.9

User score

Good
4.7

Technical Score

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 components:

60.0%

4.4

Performance

18.0%

4.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.5

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

4.2

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.6

Platform

1.0%

3.4

Integrated Graphics

Poor
8.9

User score

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 components:

70.0%

9.1

User reviews

30.0%

8.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(147)
amazon
4.4
(75)
amazon
4.3
(5)
amazon
4.7
(3)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

Excellent
  • 3.3
    Gaming

    Score components:

    30.0%

    3.1

    PassMark single-core benchmark score

    25.0%

    3.4

    Geekbench 6 single-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    3.7

    CPU boost clock speed

    17.0%

    3.1

    L3 cache

    8.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

  • 3.2
    Video editing

    Score components:

    45.0%

    3.1

    Geekbench 6 multi-core benchmark score

    20.0%

    2.6

    N. of physical cores

    20.0%

    4.0

    CPU threads

    15.0%

    3.1

    L3 cache

  • intel-core-i7-5930k
intel-core-i7-5930k

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Intel Core i7-5930K is a high-end desktop (HEDT) processor from the Haswell-E family, featuring 6 physical cores and 12 threads with a base clock of 3.50 GHz and a 3.70 GHz Turbo Boost. Built on a 22nm process for the LGA 2011-v3 socket, it stands out with 40 PCIe lanes and quad-channel DDR4-2133 memory support, making it ideal for multi-GPU setups and heavy content creation tasks. Its main strengths include its massive PCIe bandwidth for SLI/Crossfire, an unlocked multiplier for significant overclocking potential, and 15MB of Intel Smart Cache. However, it carries a high 140W TDP, requires expensive X99 platform components, and suffers from lower single-core performance compared to mainstream consumer chips from the same era.

Technical Specifications of processor Intel Core i7 5930K

Technical Score

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 components:

60.0%

4.4

Performance

18.0%

4.3

Cache & Architecture

10.0%

6.5

Memory & PCIe

7.0%

4.2

Power & Thermal

4.0%

7.6

Platform

1.0%

3.4

Integrated Graphics

4.7
Intel Core i7 5930K has a technical score of 4.71 points, which is lower than that of 60.8% of products in this category.
User score

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 components:

70.0%

9.1

User reviews

30.0%

8.5

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.6
(147)
amazon
4.4
(75)
amazon
4.3
(5)
amazon
4.7
(3)
amazon
5.0
(1)

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

8.9
Intel Core i7 5930K has a user score of 8.9 points, which is higher than that of 87.5% of products in this category.
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.
8.5
Intel Core i7 5930K has a popularity of 8.5 points, which is higher than 87.1% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

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 components:

60.0%

5.1

Overall score

40.0%

9.9

Price

6.6
Intel Core i7 5930K has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.6 points, which is higher than 57.6% of products in this category.
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

desktop
Intel Core i7 5930K 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
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

x86-64
Intel Core i7 5930K 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.
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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+

6
Intel Core i7 5930K has 6 CPU cores, which is more than 49.9% of processors and equal to 13.4% of processors.
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+

12
Intel Core i7 5930K offers 12 CPU threads, which is more than 55.1% of processors and equal to 14.1% of processors.
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

2
Intel Core i7 5930K offers 2 threads per core, which is more than 30.4% of processors and equal to 69.6% of processors.
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

3.7 GHz
Intel Core i7 5930K reaches a boost clock of 3.7 GHz which is lower than that of 72.7% of processors and equal to that of 3.9% of processors.
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

6 x 3.5 GHz
Intel Core i7 5930K has a base clock of 6x3.5 GHz which is equal to that of 100% of processors.
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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

22 nm
Intel Core i7 5930K 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
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

Intel 22 nm
Intel Core i7 5930K 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
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

15 MB
Intel Core i7 5930K has an L3 cache of 15 MB which is larger than that of 63.6% of processors and equal to that of 0.5% of processors.
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

1.5 MB
Intel Core i7 5930K has an L2 cache of 1.5 MB which is smaller than that of 62.5% of processors and equal to that of 4.6% of processors.
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

384 KB
Intel Core i7 5930K has an L1 cache of 384 KB which is larger than that of 45% of processors and equal to that of 15.8% of processors.
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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

DDR4
Intel Core i7 5930K supports DDR DDR4, which is newer than that of 26.3% of processors and equal to that of 31.7% of processors.
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

2,133 MHz
Intel Core i7 5930K supports memory speeds up to 2,133 MHz, which is lower than that of 75.6% of processors and equal to 8.8% of processors.
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

DDR4-2133 MHz
Intel Core i7 5930K supports JEDEC memory speeds up to DDR4-2,133 MHz, which is lower than that of 75.9% of processors and equal to 5.3% of processors.
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

?
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

64 GB
Intel Core i7 5930K supports up to 64 GB of memory, which is more than 28.4% of processors and equal to 27.6% of processors.
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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

no
Intel Core i7 5930K does not include integrated graphics. 87.6% of processors include integrated graphics.
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

N/A
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

N/A
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

N/A
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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

140 W
Intel Core i7 5930K has a TDP of 140 W which is higher than that of 94.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.8% of processors.
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

140 W
Intel Core i7 5930K has a base power of 140 W which is higher than that of 94.7% of processors and equal to that of 0.8% of processors.
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

8 seconds
Intel Core i7 5930K has a turbo duration of 8 seconds which is longer than that of 89.1% of processors and equal to that of 7.1% of processors.
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

no
Intel Core i7 5930K does not support configurable TDP. 52.9% of processors support configurable TDP.
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Intel Core i7 5930K vs the average processor

  • 24 more PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i7 5930K has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (40 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
    What it is: The number of PCIe lanes provided directly by the processor.
    When it matters: When you connect fast GPUs, SSDs, or expansion cards.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >=20

    Intel Core i7 5930K has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (40 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.40 vs 16
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i7 5930K 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 5930K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 45.9% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 5930K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 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 5930K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.2.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
    What it is: The highest safe operating junction temperature before the CPU starts throttling or protecting itself.
    When it matters: When you tune cooling or monitor thermals under load.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=100 °C

    Intel Core i7 5930K 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
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i7 5930K has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 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+

    Intel Core i7 5930K has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.12 vs 8
  • 8.52x more popular
    Intel Core i7 5930K is more popular than the average processor (8.52 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 5930K is more popular than the average processor (8.52 vs 1,000).8.52 vs 1
  • 87.5% larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (15 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
    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

    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (15 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.15 MB vs 8 MB
  • 48.5% higher memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (68 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 5930K has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (68 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.68 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s
  • 4 more CPU threads
    Intel Core i7 5930K has more CPU threads than the average processor (12 vs 8). The average processor has 8 CPU threads.
  • 45.9% more L3 per core
    Intel Core i7 5930K has more L3 cache per core than the average processor (2.5 MB/core vs 1,714 MB/core). The average processor provides 1,714 MB/core of L3 cache per core.
  • 87.5% larger L3 cache
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher L3 cache than the average processor (15 MB vs 8 MB). The average processor has L3 cache of 8 MB.
  • 24 more PCIe lanes
    Intel Core i7 5930K has more PCIe lanes than the average processor (40 vs 16). The average processor offers 16 PCIe lanes.
  • Supports memory overclocking
    Intel Core i7 5930K supports memory overclocking, the average processor does not.
  • 48.5% higher memory bandwidth
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher memory bandwidth than the average processor (68 GB/s vs 45.8 GB/s). The average processor offers memory bandwidth of 45.8 GB/s.
  • 5 °C higher TJ Max
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher TJ Max than the average processor (105 °C vs 100 °C). The average processor has a TJ Max of 100 °C.
  • 6 year/s older release date
    Intel Core i7 5930K has an older release date than the average processor (2014 vs 2020).
    August 2,014
  • No crypto acceleration
    Intel Core i7 5930K does not include crypto acceleration, the average processor does.
  • Narrower instruction support
    Intel Core i7 5930K supports a narrower instruction set than the average processor (MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES vs MMX, SSE, SSE2, SSE3, SSSE3, SSE4A, SSE4.1, SSE4.2, AVX, AVX2, F16C, FMA3, AES, SHA).
  • 14% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
  • 17.2% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,057 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
  • 16.9% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,222 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
  • 83.3% larger process node
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher process node than the average processor (22 nm vs 12 nm). The average processor uses a process node of 12 nm.
  • 2x larger die size
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher die size than the average processor (356 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 5930K 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 5930K uses a less advanced microarchitecture than the average processor (Haswell vs Kaby Lake).
  • 40% smaller L2 cache
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower L2 cache than the average processor (1.5 MB vs 2.5 MB). The average processor has L2 cache of 2.5 MB.
  • Less advanced foundry
    Intel Core i7 5930K uses a less advanced foundry process than the average processor (Intel 22 nm vs Intel 14 nm).
  • 47.5% fewer transistors
    Intel Core i7 5930K has fewer transistors than the average processor (2.6 billion vs 4.95 billion). The average processor has 4.95 billion transistors.
  • 27.3% lower memory speed
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower maximum memory speed than the average processor (2,133 MHz vs 2,933 MHz). The average processor supports memory speed of 2,933 MHz.
  • 2 fewer memory channels
    Intel Core i7 5930K has fewer memory channels than the average processor (4 vs 2). The average processor supports 2 memory channels.
  • No integrated graphics
    Intel Core i7 5930K does not include integrated graphics, the average processor does.
  • 3.11x higher base power
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.
  • 3.11x higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher TDP than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
  • No configurable TDP
    Intel Core i7 5930K does not support configurable TDP, the average processor does.
  • 20 seconds shorter turbo duration
    Intel Core i7 5930K 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 5930K 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 5930K 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
  • 14% lower boost clock
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.
    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

    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower boost clock speed than the average processor (3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz). The average processor reaches boost clock speed of 4.3 GHz.3.7 GHz vs 4.3 GHz
  • 3.11x higher base power
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (140 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 5930K has a higher base power draw than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a base power draw of 45 W.140 W vs 45 W
  • 17.2% weaker single-core performance
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,057 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.
    What it is: A benchmark score that reflects single-core CPU performance.
    When it matters: When you care about responsiveness in lighter or older software.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >3200

    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower PassMark single-core score than the average processor (2,057 vs 2,483). The average processor scores 2,483 in PassMark single-core.2,057 vs 2,483
  • 2x larger die size
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher die size than the average processor (356 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².
    What it is: The physical area of the processor die, usually measured in square millimeters.
    When it matters: When you are comparing chip scale, packaging density, or broader design differences rather than direct user-visible performance.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: <150 mm²

    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher die size than the average processor (356 mm² vs 178 mm²). The average processor has a die size of 178 mm².356 mm² vs 178 mm²
  • 16.9% lower single-core score
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,222 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.
    What it is: A Geekbench 6 score that reflects single-core CPU performance in mixed modern workloads.
    When it matters: When you care about snappy everyday performance in lighter apps, browsing, office work, or tasks that do not scale well across many cores.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: >2000

    Intel Core i7 5930K has a lower Geekbench 6 single-core score than the average processor (1,222 vs 1,471). The average processor scores 1,471 in Geekbench 6 single-core.1,222 vs 1,471
  • 50% less L2 per core
    Intel Core i7 5930K 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.
    What it is: The amount of L2 cache available to each CPU core.
    When it matters: When you are comparing per-core cache resources in deeper architectural analysis.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=1 MB/core

    Intel Core i7 5930K 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
  • 3.11x higher TDP
    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher TDP than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.
    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

    Intel Core i7 5930K has a higher TDP than the average processor (140 W vs 45 W). The average processor has a TDP of 45 W.140 W vs 45 W

Graphic comparison of Intel Core i7 5930K and other processors

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Third-party reviews

(Reviews last updated: May 2026)

What customers like about Intel Core i7 5930K?

  • High number of PCIe lanes (40), supporting robust multi-GPU (SLI/CrossFire) and high-speed NVMe storage setups.
  • Strong multi-threaded performance for workstation tasks like 3D rendering, video editing, and virtualization.
  • Excellent overclocking headroom; many users report stability at 4.5GHz with proper cooling.
  • Quad-channel DDR4 memory support provides high memory bandwidth for professional applications.
  • Large L3 cache (15MB) contributes to consistent performance under heavy multitasking workloads.

What customers dislike about Intel Core i7 5930K?

  • High platform entry cost, requiring expensive X99 motherboards and DDR4 RAM (at launch).
  • Lacks integrated graphics, mandating the purchase of a discrete graphics card.
  • High power consumption and heat output (140W TDP), necessitating high-end aftermarket cooling.
  • Poor value proposition compared to the i7-5820K, which offered similar 6-core performance for significantly less money.
  • Lower single-core performance compared to mainstream 'Devil's Canyon' chips (like the i7-4790K) in gaming.

Expert reviews

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tomshardware.com
29/08/2014

The Tom's Hardware review highlights the Intel Core i7-5960X as the first consumer-grade eight-core processor, built on the 22nm Haswell-E architecture with 16 threads, 20MB of L3 cache, and 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes. A significant advantage is the introduction of quad-channel DDR4 memory support for increased bandwidth, though it requires a new LGA 2011-3 socket and X99 chipset....Read more

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tomshardware.com
17/03/2015

The Tom's Hardware review of the Nvidia GeForce GTX Titan X (Maxwell) highlights the GM200 GPU as a major silicon achievement, featuring 3,072 CUDA cores and 12GB of GDDR5 to target 4K gaming. The card's primary advantages included unmatched single-GPU performance for 3840x2160 resolutions and efficient power consumption relative to its performance. However, the review noted...Read more

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techpowerup.com
16/03/2015

The TechPowerUp comparison of Intel’s Haswell-E lineup (i7-5960X, 5930K, 5820K) details a shift toward high-core-count computing, introducing the X99 platform and DDR4 memory, with the 8-core 5960X dominating in heavily threaded tasks. The 5820K is highlighted for offering high-end, 6-core performance at a value price point with high overclocking headroom (up to 4.6 GHz), while the...Read more

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hexus.net
10/11/2014

The Intel Core i7-5930K is a six-core, 12-thread 22nm Haswell-E high-end desktop (HEDT) processor, serving as a versatile option that supports 40 PCIe Gen 3 lanes, ideal for multi-GPU configurations. While delivering excellent performance, it is often seen as a mid-ground choice between the cheaper 28-lane i7-5820K and the more powerful eight-core i7-5960X. Key advantages include...Read more

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bit-tech.net
03/09/2014

The bit-tech review of the Intel Core i7-5930K and i7-5820K highlights significant multi-threaded performance gains, with the 5930K offering 40 PCIe lanes for multi-GPU setups and the 5820K providing 28 lanes as a more budget-friendly, high-performance option. Pros include exceptional rendering capabilities, with the 5930K being 26% faster in Cinebench than predecessors, alongside...Read more

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pcmag.com
28/08/2014

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition is hailed by PCMag as a "beast" and a major milestone as Intel's first eight-core desktop CPU, delivering exceptional performance in heavily multithreaded tasks like 4K video editing and 3D rendering. Based on the "Haswell-E" architecture, the processor features 16 threads and 20MB of L3 cache, which established it as the fastest consumer CPU...Read more

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modders-inc.com
14/11/2014

The Modders-Inc review of the Intel Core i7-5820K and i7-5930K highlights these 6-core/12-thread processors as accessible, high-performance entries into the X99 Haswell-E platform. While the i7-5930K offers 40 PCIe lanes for multi-GPU setups at 3.5GHz, the i7-5820K provides 28 lanes at 3.3GHz, both utilizing DDR4 memory and featuring unlocked multipliers for significant overclocking...Read more

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bit-tech.net
03/09/2014

The bit-tech review highlights the Intel Core i7-5930K and i7-5820K as powerful 6-core/12-thread Haswell-E processors, with the 5930K offering 40 PCIe lanes and the 5820K offering 28 lanes. Performance testing shows both chips excel in multi-threaded tasks with strong overclocking potential, though gaming performance is largely GPU-bottlenecked. While the i7-5820K is recommended for...Read more

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chip.de
11/03/2015

The Intel Core i7-5930K is a high-end 22nm Haswell-E desktop processor featuring six cores, 12 threads, and a 3.5 GHz base clock, aimed at performance enthusiasts. Its primary advantage is providing 40 PCI Express 3.0 lanes, ideal for multi-GPU setups without bandwidth bottlenecks, along with excellent multi-threaded performance in rendering and encoding tasks. The processor is...Read more

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tomshardware.fr
29/08/2014

The Haswell-E review introduces Intel’s 22nm X99 platform, featuring the 8-core Core i7-5960X and 6-core i7-5930K/5820K, which bring DDR4 support and significant multi-threaded performance gains. While the 5960X excels in workstation tasks, the 5820K is highlighted for its value, though all chips require a 140W TDP and the new LGA 2011-3 socket. Pros include massive rendering power...Read more

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tested.es
25/02/2015

The Intel Core i7-5960X, as analyzed in the Tested.es review, is an 8-core, 16-thread Haswell-E desktop processor utilizing the X99 chipset, LGA 2011-v3 socket, and DDR4 memory, featuring a 3.0 GHz base clock and 20 MB of L3 cache. It provides exceptional performance in heavily threaded workloads, such as 4K video rendering and content creation, while offering significant...Read more

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geeknetic.es
29/08/2014

The Intel Core i7-5960X Extreme Edition, a 22nm Haswell-E processor, launched as the first 8-core desktop CPU, featuring a 3.0 GHz base, 3.5 GHz Turbo, 16 threads, and 20MB L3 cache. It mandates the X99 chipset (LGA 2011-v3), introducing quad-channel DDR4 support and 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes. Pros include unmatched multi-threaded performance in professional, heavily threaded tasks and...Read more

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tomshw.it
01/09/2014

The Haswell-E architecture introduces Intel's first consumer-grade platform to support DDR4 memory and an 8-core desktop processor with the i7-5960X. This flagship CPU offers exceptional multi-threaded performance, making it an ideal choice for intensive, professional-grade workloads, although its lower base clock speed can be a drawback for single-threaded applications. The...Read more

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tomshw.it
01/09/2014

The Intel Core i7-5960X, 5930K, and 5820K (Haswell-E) review details a major shift in the enthusiast market with the introduction of the first 8-core consumer processor and DDR4 memory support. The flagship i7-5960X delivers massive multi-threaded performance for professional applications, though its high $999 price tag and lower base clock make it less ideal for pure gaming....Read more

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id.nl
15/12/2014

This ID.nl review evaluates seven X99-chipset motherboards for Intel's Haswell-E processors (Socket 2011-v3), highlighting the transition to DDR4 memory and performance stability across various models. Key advantages include exceptional multi-threaded performance and high capacity for memory, with top performers like the ASUS X99-Deluxe offering advanced features, while the ASrock...Read more

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tweakers.net
29/08/2014

The X99 platform, paired with Haswell-E processors, represents a major milestone as Intel's first consumer-grade transition to DDR4 memory and the introduction of its first eight-core desktop CPU, the i7-5960X, designed for "early adopters" and enthusiasts. The platform brings significant improvements over the X79 chipset, including ten native SATA 6Gb/s ports, six integrated USB...Read more

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