Intel Core i7-4790 vs Intel Core i7-5775C

The Intel Core i7-4790, based on the Haswell S architecture (22 nm), was designed for the desktop mainstream to enthusiast segment.

It offers 4 cores and 8 threads with 8 MB of Level 3 Cache and Intel HD Graphics 4600. The Intel Core i7-5775C, part of the Broadwell S architecture (14 nm), also targeted desktops but placed a stronger focus on its integrated graphics.

It features 4 cores, 8 threads, and 6 MB of Level 3 Cache, complemented by the more powerful Intel Iris Pro Graphics 6200. Both support PCIe 3.0 and achieve 26 GB/s memory bandwidth. In terms of CPU performance, the Intel Core i7-5775C shows slight advantages in single- and multi-core tasks, especially in newer benchmarks like Cinebench 2024.

However, the Intel Core i7-4790's performance remains very solid. For gaming with a dedicated graphics card, the differences in pure CPU performance are minimal. Without a dedicated graphics card, the Intel Core i7-5775C offers a significantly better gaming experience thanks to the Iris Pro Graphics 6200.

The Intel Core i7-4790 has a TDP of 84 Watts, while the Intel Core i7-5775C, due to the more efficient 14 nm manufacturing process, has a TDP of 65 Watts, leading to lower consumption. In the used market, prices vary; historically, the Intel Core i7-5775C was more expensive.

The Intel Core i7-4790 is a robust desktop processor that offers solid pure CPU performance for applications and gaming with a dedicated graphics card. Its strengths lie in its balanced performance. The Intel Core i7-5775C stands out due to its more advanced manufacturing, lower TDP, and especially its significantly superior integrated Iris Pro Graphics 6200.

For systems without a dedicated graphics card or with a high priority for energy efficiency, the Intel Core i7-5775C is the better choice. If a dedicated graphics card is present and pure CPU performance is the main focus, the Intel Core i7-4790 can offer comparable baseline performance, which may be attractive depending on the used market price.