Intel Core i7-4790 vs Intel Core i7-2600

The Intel Core i7-4790 is based on the Haswell S architecture and was designed for desktop users seeking a reliable computing unit.

Manufactured using the 22-nanometer process, this processor provides four cores and eight threads. With a memory bandwidth of 26 GB/s and PCIe 3.0 support, rapid data exchange is guaranteed. While the Level 2 cache is listed as 0 MB, 8 MB of Level 3 cache is available. In benchmarks, single-core and multi-core performance exceeds the older model by more than 10 percent, making it more efficient for computationally intensive tasks.

In games, the Intel Core i7-4790 delivers more stable results thanks to Intel HD Graphics 4600 and better optimization. With a TDP of 84 watts, heat generation remains controllable. It is the better choice for high-performance systems. The Intel Core i7-2600 comes from the Sandy Bridge S architecture and is produced using the 32-nanometer process.

It also offers four cores and eight threads for standard applications. However, technical features such as PCIe 2.0 and a memory bandwidth of 17 GB/s limit the speed of communication with hardware components. In addition to 1 MB of Level 2 cache, it has 8 MB of Level 3 cache. In available measurements of single-core and multi-core performance, it lags significantly behind the Haswell model.

For gaming scenarios, the Intel Core i7-2600 is less recommended, as the Intel HD Graphics 2000 and lower per-clock performance lead to bottlenecks in demanding scenarios. The thermal design power of 95 watts requires effective cooling. It is primarily of interest for budget systems or simple office work.