Intel Core i7-4790 vs Intel Core i7-7700

The Intel Core i7-4790 and Intel Core i7-7700 are desktop processors for users seeking solid computing performance for everyday tasks, productivity, and gaming.

The Intel Core i7-4790, based on the Haswell S architecture and manufactured using a 22 nm process, was a powerful chip of its generation. The Intel Core i7-7700 belongs to the Kaby Lake S architecture and is manufactured using the more advanced 14 nm process, signaling a later generation and associated improvements.

Both CPUs feature 4 cores and 8 threads. The integrated graphics solution of the Intel Core i7-4790 is the Intel HD Graphics 4600, while the Intel Core i7-7700 offers the more modern Intel HD Graphics 630. Both support PCIe 3.0 and have an 8 MB Level 3 Cache. Performance-wise, the Intel Core i7-7700 shows noticeably higher performance in single-core applications than the Intel Core i7-4790, due to architectural advancements.

For multi-core tasks, the Intel Core i7-7700 also offers slightly higher performance, but the difference is less pronounced. For gaming, the Intel Core i7-7700 has an advantage due to its better single-core performance, as many games benefit from a high clock speed per core. The more modern integrated graphics of the Intel Core i7-7700 provides a slightly better basis for simple visual tasks without a dedicated graphics card.

The maximum memory bandwidth is 26 GB/s for the Intel Core i7-4790 and 38 GB/s for the Intel Core i7-7700. Energy efficiency is another important difference: The Intel Core i7-7700 has a Thermal Design Power (TDP) of 65W, compared to 84W for the Intel Core i7-4790.

This means the Intel Core i7-7700 consumes less power under load and potentially allows for cooler operating temperatures. On the used market, the Intel Core i7-4790 is often found at a lower price, making it a cost-effective option for older systems. In comparison, the Intel Core i7-7700 offers higher performance per watt and a more modern platform, making it more attractive for somewhat more current systems.