Intel Core i7-860 vs Intel Core i5-4690K

The Intel Core i5-4690K, codenamed "Devils Canyon S", was introduced as an overclockable mainstream and enthusiast processor.

Manufactured using a 22 nm process, it features 4 cores, PCIe 3.0, and 26 GB/s memory bandwidth. An integrated Intel HD Graphics 4600 is present. The Intel Core i7-860, codenamed "Lynnfield", was designed as a more powerful processor for demanding applications.

It is based on a 45 nm manufacturing process, offers 4 cores with 8 threads (Hyper-Threading), PCIe 2.0, and 17 GB/s memory bandwidth. It has an 8 MB Level 3 Cache. In terms of performance, the Intel Core i5-4690K significantly outperforms the Intel Core i7-860 in both single-core and multi-core performance, mainly thanks to its newer architecture and higher Instruction-Per-Clock (IPC).

For gaming, the Intel Core i5-4690K is the better choice due to its superior single-core performance and PCIe 3.0. The energy efficiency of the Intel Core i5-4690K is better than that of the Intel Core i7-860 (manufactured in 45 nm) thanks to its 22 nm manufacturing process.

The Intel Core i5-4690K offers a better performance-to-price ratio. In summary, the Intel Core i5-4690K, with its strong single-core performance and modern features, is the superior choice for current applications and gaming. Despite Hyper-Threading, the Intel Core i7-860 is inferior in overall performance and is only recommended for very basic tasks.