Final Thoughts
Most processors that are part of the Haswell refresh received a 100 MHz boost in terms of core frequency and turbo frequency. With Devil’s Canyon Intel did something different, they gave the Core i7-4790K a 500 MHz boost for both its core and turbo frequencies. This is quite a boost and makes the Core i7-4790K Intel’s fastest quad-core processor to date!
When it comes to normal usage the Core i7-4790K will most definitely outperform the processor which it is effectively replacing, the Core i7-4770K. That is more than evident in all of our tests as we directly compared both processors. The Core i7-4790K outperformed the Core i7-4770K anywhere from 5-15% depending on the test. If you are debating on waiting for the i7-4970K to come out or the i7-4770K our suggestion is to wait, you will definitely appreciate that extra 500 MHz of performance.
Being a “K-Series” processor means that the Core i7-4790K is targeted at enthusiasts so overclocking is very important. We were able to push the Core i7-4790K from its stock 4.0 GHz to 4.6 GHz, which is only about an 11% overclock. It is consistent with our stable overclocks on the Core i7-4770K. While 4.6 GHz is nothing groundbreaking it is still pretty impressive for a processor that is already clocked quite high. For all those hoping they can achieve “5 GHz on air” with this processor it is not going to happen.
Right now Amazon’s pre-order page for the Core i7-4790K says that it will be available on June 20th for $339. That is currently the same price as the Core i7-4770K so as I just said if you are debating between the two it is a no-brainer. It is great that Intel is keeping the Core i7-4790K at the same price as the Core i7-4790K. If you are building a new system with an Intel 9-Series motherboard the Core i7-4790K is the perfect processor to team with it.
Overal ThinkComputers gives the Intel Core i7-4790K Devil’s Canyon Processor a 9 out of 10 score and our Editor’s Choice Award!
Pros:
– 500 MHz boost over the Core i7-4770K
– Improved TIM and added capacitors
– Priced the same as the Core i7-4770K
– The fastest Intel quad-core processor to date
Cons:
– Overclocking could be better
