Intel Core i5-4440 vs Intel Core i7-4790K

The Intel Core i5-4440, based on the Haswell S architecture, was introduced as a mainstream processor for standard desktop applications.

It offered solid performance for everyday tasks. The Intel Core i7-4790K, known by the codename Devils Canyon S, targeted enthusiasts and demanding users as a high-end model.

Both CPUs are manufactured using the 22 nm process and utilize PCIe 3.0. The Intel Core i5-4440 features 4 cores and 4 threads with 6 MB L3 cache. The Intel Core i7-4790K also offers 4 cores, but thanks to Hyper-Threading, it has 8 threads and 8 MB L3 cache. Both have Intel HD Graphics 4600 and a maximum memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s.

The Intel Core i7-4790K outperforms the Intel Core i5-4440 in single-core performance by over 30 percent and in multi-core performance by more than 50 percent, mainly due to higher clock speeds and Hyper-Threading. This also makes it a significantly better choice for gaming, as games benefit from its superior core performance.

The Intel Core i5-4440 has a lower TDP and is more energy-efficient. The Intel Core i7-4790K, with a higher TDP, requires more cooling but offers a better price-performance ratio for demanding tasks due to its overclockability and higher performance. The Intel Core i5-4440 is well-suited for cost-effective systems and everyday use.

The Intel Core i7-4790K is the clear recommendation for demanding applications and gaming, thanks to its superior performance and overclockability.