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Intel Core i7-4790K Processor (8M Cache, up to 4.40 GHz) BX80646I74790K
Intel

Intel Core i7-4790K Processor (8M Cache, up to 4.40 GHz) BX80646I74790K

Bottom line: The Intel Core i7-4790K Processor BX80646I74790K: Unlocked multiplier for overclocking on Z97 boards; main trade-off: dead-end LGA1150 platform with no future upgrade path.

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By , Founder & Editor-in-Chief · Listing data updated

Mike Perry — Hardware researcher since 2014, focused on GPU performance across gaming, rendering, and local-LLM inference. Synthesises community benchmarks, manufacturer specs, and public forum data into actionable buying guides.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • ✓ Unlocked multiplier for overclocking on Z97 boards
  • ✓ 4 cores / 8 threads with 8MB cache at up to 4.40 GHz
  • ✓ Drop-in FCLGA1150 upgrade, no new motherboard needed
  • ✓ Quick Sync Video speeds up hardware video conversion

Cons

  • ✗ Dead-end LGA1150 platform with no future upgrade path
  • ✗ Only 4 cores; modern titles favor 6-8 core CPUs
  • ✗ Overclocking needs an aftermarket cooler, sold separately
  • ✗ DDR3-era platform, no DDR4 or PCIe 4.0 support

Manufacturer description

The Intel Core i7-4790K is the fastest LGA1150 chip Intel ever shipped, and it remains the go-to upgrade for anyone still running a Haswell board. Four cores, eight threads, 8MB of cache, and boost clocks up to 4.40 GHz give this Devil's Canyon processor the single-thread speed that older games and legacy software actually reward. The unlocked clock multiplier means you are not locked to stock behavior: pair it with a Z97 motherboard and a decent cooler, and you control the tuning yourself. Socket FCLGA1150 compatibility makes this a genuine drop-in path for aging Core i5 builds, no new…

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SpecPicks Verdict

SpecPicks scored Intel Core i7-4790K Processor BX80646I74790K using a rating × review-volume × price-fit model applied to published specs and reviews across the processors category. Intel's processors lineup sits within the broader category mid-tier; price and specs are the deciding factors over brand loyalty here. Judge it on the specification table and the price rather than on sentiment: check the figures that decide your use case, then put it side-by-side with two or three close alternatives in the Compare tool before clicking through.

Common buyer scenarios for processors of this kind: matching it to an existing build, replacing a failing part, or upgrading from a previous-generation equivalent. Check the spec table below against your current setup — particularly socket / form-factor / power-rating fields — and confirm compatibility on the retailer's listing before purchase. Prices and stock are set by the retailer and may have moved since this page was last updated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What motherboard socket does the i7-4790K need?

It uses Socket FCLGA1150. For overclocking the unlocked multiplier, a Z97 chipset board is the standard pairing.

How many cores and threads does it have?

Four cores and eight threads, with 8MB of cache and boost clocks listed up to 4.40 GHz.

Can I overclock this processor?

Yes. It ships with an unlocked clock multiplier, so you can raise the ratio directly in a compatible Z-series BIOS.

Is the i7-4790K still worth it in 2026?

For LGA1150 upgrades and retro builds, yes. It is the fastest chip for that socket.

Does it include a cooler in the box?

This is the boxed BX80646I74790K retail SKU. Check the product listing for current bundle contents before ordering, and plan on an aftermarket cooler if you intend to overclock.

Key Features

  • Intel Rapid Storage Technology
  • Processor with Unlocked Clock Multiplier
  • Quick Sync Video enabling faster video conversion
  • Socket Type FCLGA1150

Full Specifications

BrandIntel
Wattage88
PlatformWindows
CPU ModelCore i7
CPU Speed4.1 GHz
CPU SocketLGA 1150
Model NumberBX80646I74790K
Mfr Part NumberBX80646I74790K
Processor BrandIntel
Processor Count4
Processor Speed4.1 GHz
Secondary Cache8 MB
CPU ManufacturerIntel
Item Part NumberBX80646I74790K
Processor SeriesCore i7
Processor SocketLGA 1150
Processor Core Count4
Item Dimensions L x W4.61"L x 4.41"W
Cache Memory Installed Size8 MB
Global Trade Identification Number00675901296557, 00735858285957, 00735858285964, 05032037065948, 05032037065955, 05032037066181, 07358582859572, 08809481923493

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Intel Core i7-4790K Processor (8M Cache, up to 4.40 GHz) BX80646I74790K is listed on Amazon. Price, availability, shipping and returns are set by Amazon and its sellers — check the listing for current terms. SpecPicks earns a small commission on qualifying purchases — thank you for supporting independent review work.

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Intel Core i7-4790K Processor (8M Cache, up to 4.40 GHz) BX80646I74790K
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