Intel Core i7-4790 socket: LGA 1150
The Intel Core i7-4790 uses the LGA 1150 socket. It is a quad Haswell part with eight threads at 3.6 GHz with turbo to 4.0 GHz and 84 W with HD Graphics 4600.
- Socket
- LGA 1150
- Launched
- May 2014
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 8
- Base power
- 84 W
- Codename
- Haswell
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i7
- Clocks
- 3.6 / 4.0 GHz
Intel Core i7-4790 specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 8 |
| Core architecture | Haswell cores on 22 nm |
| Clocks | 3.6 GHz base, up to 4.0 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 8 MB Smart Cache |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 84 W |
| Manufacturing process | 22 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1333 and 1600, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | PCIe 3.0, 16 lanes |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 4600 |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1150 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i7-4790 needs a motherboard with a LGA 1150 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 9 series | Z97, H97 | Works out of the box |
| 8 series | Z87, H87, Q87, Q85, B85, H81 | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1150.
LGA 1150 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,150 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | June 2013 |
| Memory | DDR3 and DDR3L |
| Cooler mounting holes | 75 × 75 mm |
What the Core i7-4790 is
The Core i7-4790 is the standard Haswell i7 for performance towers on LGA 1150. Intel set four cores and eight threads at 3.6 GHz base with turbo to 4.0 GHz. Eight megabytes of Smart Cache serve creation, builds and virtual machines. Power is 84 W on 22 nm from May 2014. It is the locked counterpart to the unlocked 4790K with the same cache and graphics.
High base clocks keep all core work moving without waiting for turbo. Bursts to 4.0 GHz lift single thread tasks such as UI response and compile steps. Eight threads handle edits beside renders with an SSD. The locked multiplier suits offices that want i7 threads without tuning risk. Used market supply is broad with mature boards.
HD Graphics 4600 covers office monitors with three display support. DDR3-1333 and 1600 plus DDR3L variants across two channels to 32 GB feed the chip. The 4790 is a Haswell reference quad for buyers who want proven i7 threads at 84 W.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The 4790 fits LGA 1150 on 8 series boards including H81, B85, H87 and Z87, and on 9 series boards including H97 and Z97. Haswell is native on both series, so boards run it from shipping BIOS in most cases. Confirm the maker entry for OEM boards with older firmware.
Mounting is 75 × 75 mm for stock and tower coolers. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide shows fits. Chips for LGA 1151 never fit. The Socket vs chipset: what decides whether a CPU works guide covers series choice.
H81 and B85 run it at full speed for offices. H97 adds 9 series features. Z boards work but add tuning this locked chip cannot use.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
DDR3-1333 and 1600 with DDR3L options in dual channel to 32 GB is the spec. Sixteen gigabytes suits creation with an SSD. Paired sticks help graphics in meetings. Faster DDR3 kits can run via XMP on Z boards.
Sixteen PCIe 3.0 lanes from the CPU feed one graphics slot or adapters. Many 4790 towers add a mid range card for accelerated work. Chipset lanes add SATA and USB. Board manuals show slot sharing with adapters.
Boxed 84 W cooling handles 3.6 GHz in towers with normal airflow. The 37.5 × 37.5 mm FCLGA1150 package fits standard mounts. Keep VRM airflow in mind during long all core loads.
Upgrade paths
Within the socket the Intel Core i7-4790S at 3.2 GHz to 4.0 GHz is a lower power twin for slim cases. The Intel Core i7-4790K at 4.0 GHz to 4.4 GHz unlocked is the tuning step for Z boards. Both share DDR3 and LGA 1150 mounting.
DDR4 needs a new socket and board. The 4790 covers Haswell towers where locked i7 threads at 84 W are enough.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Core i7-4790 use?
It uses LGA 1150 on 8 and 9 series boards.
How many cores does the Core i7-4790 have?
Four cores and eight threads at 3.6 GHz base with turbo to 4.0 GHz.
Which graphics does the Core i7-4790 include?
Intel HD Graphics 4600.
What is the TDP of the Core i7-4790?
84 W for performance towers.
Sources and verification
- 4th Generation Intel Core i7 Processors (Intel, 4790 8M Cache up to 4.00 GHz Q2 14)
- Intel Core i7-4790 Desktop Processor (Newegg, 3.6 GHz 84W HD4600)
- LGA 1150 (Wikipedia, chipsets and memory)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .