Intel Core i7-4790K: The Ultimate Processor Upgrade

Intel Core i7-4790K: The Ultimate Processor Upgrade

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Intel Core i7 4790k: Overview
3. Changes in the Devil's Canyon Processor
4. Performance Comparisons: 4790k vs. 4770k
5. Overclocking Capability and Results
6. Price and Availability
7. Is the 4790k Worth the Upgrade?
8. Compatibility with Motherboards
9. The 4690k: An Alternative to Consider
10. Conclusion

Introduction

The Intel Core i7 4790k processor, also known as the Devil's Canyon, has been generating a lot of buzz in the tech world. This new processor, based on the Haswell architecture, promises improved performance and overclockability compared to its predecessor, the 4770k. In this article, we will dive into the details of the 4790k and assess whether it lives up to the hype.

Intel Core i7 4790k: Overview

The Intel Core i7 4790k is a high-performance processor designed for PC enthusiasts and power users. It features a base clock speed of 4GHz and a turbo clock speed of 4.4GHz, providing a significant frequency boost compared to the 4770k. With its four cores and eight Threads, the 4790k offers excellent multitasking capabilities and is well-suited for demanding tasks such as video editing, 3D rendering, and gaming.

Changes in the Devil's Canyon Processor

One notable change in the Devil's Canyon processor is the thermal interface material (TIM) between the die and the heat spreader. Intel has introduced a next-generation polymer TIM, which improves heat transfer and helps lower temperatures. Additionally, new capacitors have been added to the back of the processor to optimize power delivery, allowing for higher clock speeds and improved stability.

Performance Comparisons: 4790k vs. 4770k

In terms of performance, the Intel Core i7 4790k offers significant advantages over the 4770k. During testing, we observed performance gains ranging from 7% to 14% depending on the application and thread utilization. Even in single-threaded workloads, the higher clock speeds of the 4790k result in improved performance. Overall, the 4790k proves to be a superior processor compared to other Haswell parts on the market.

Overclocking Capability and Results

One of the key expectations for the Devil's Canyon processor was its overclocking potential. However, our test results were somewhat underwhelming. Using an ASUS Z97 Deluxe motherboard, we were only able to achieve a stable overclock of 4.7GHz on all cores. This required a voltage of 1.36V, which is relatively high for a standard Haswell processor. It is important to note that these results may vary from part to part, and it remains to be seen how the 4790k performs when tested by the community at large.

Price and Availability

The Intel Core i7 4790k is priced at $339, the same as the 4770k. Pre-orders for the 4790k are already available on platforms like Amazon, Newegg, and Micro Center, with shipping expected by the end of June. Considering the performance advantages and the price parity with its predecessor, the 4790k presents an attractive option for those looking to upgrade their systems.

Is the 4790k Worth the Upgrade?

If you already own a Haswell processor, the performance advantages and the overclocking headroom offered by the 4790k may not warrant an immediate upgrade. However, if you have been waiting for a reason to upgrade or are still using older generation processors like Ivy Bridge or Sandy Bridge, the 4790k can provide a significant performance boost. Its base clock speed of 4GHz and turbo clock speed of 4.4GHz make it a compelling choice for power users and gamers alike.

Compatibility with Motherboards

Intel recommends using a Z97 motherboard with the 4790k. However, some motherboard manufacturers, like ASUS, have added support for Devil's Canyon processors to their Z87 platforms through BIOS or UEFI updates. If you already own a Z87 motherboard, it is worth checking with the manufacturer if they have implemented support for the 4790k. This can potentially save you the extra cost of a new motherboard.

The 4690k: An Alternative to Consider

In addition to the 4790k, Intel also offers the Core i5 4690k, another Devil's Canyon processor. The 4690k is a quad-core, non-Hyper-threaded part that provides a modest 100MHz improvement over the 4670k. Priced similarly to the 4790k, the 4690k may not be as tempting of an upgrade, considering its relatively small frequency boost. However, for users who prioritize lower cost or do not require the additional threads, the 4690k can still offer a significant performance upgrade.

Conclusion

The Intel Core i7 4790k, also known as the Devil's Canyon processor, introduces several improvements over its predecessor. With its higher base and turbo clock speeds, improved thermal interface material, and optimized power delivery, the 4790k offers enhanced performance and overclocking potential. While our overclocking results were not exceptional, it is important to remember that individual part variances may affect the overall performance. Overall, the 4790k is an excellent choice for users looking to upgrade or build high-performance systems.

Highlights:

• 💡 Introduction to the Intel Core i7 4790k processor, aka Devil's Canyon
• 💡 Overview of the 4790k's specifications and features
• 💡 Changes in the Devil's Canyon processor, including thermal interface material and capacitors
• 💡 Performance comparisons between the 4790k and the 4770k
• 💡 Evaluation of the 4790k's overclocking capability and results
• 💡 Price and availability of the 4790k, as well as potential upgrade considerations
• 💡 Compatibility with Z97 and some Z87 motherboards
• 💡 An alternative option: the Core i5 4690k
• 💡 Conclusion: The 4790k's performance, value, and suitability for different user profiles

FAQs:

Q: Can I use a Z87 motherboard with the Intel Core i7 4790k? A: Intel recommends using a Z97 motherboard with the 4790k. However, some motherboard manufacturers, like ASUS, have released BIOS or UEFI updates to add Devil's Canyon support to certain Z87 models. Check with your motherboard manufacturer for compatibility information.

Q: Is the Intel Core i7 4790k significantly better than the 4770k? A: Yes, the 4790k offers higher clock speeds and improved performance compared to the 4770k. Depending on the application and thread utilization, you can expect performance gains ranging from 7% to 14%.

Q: How much does the Intel Core i7 4790k cost? A: The 4790k is priced at $339, the same as the 4770k. Pre-orders are already available on various online platforms.

Q: What are the alternatives to the Intel Core i7 4790k? A: If you are looking for a more budget-friendly option or do not require hyper-threading, the Core i5 4690k can be a suitable alternative. It offers a smaller frequency boost compared to the 4790k but comes at a similar price point.