Intel Core i7-4790 CPU Design

Currently on its fourth generation refresh, Intel's Core CPU design has been in use for many years now. Over its iterations, power consumption has dropped while overall performance has increased, although only in minor increments. Intel has also given end users more control over the CPU itself with its unlocked "K" and "X" CPUs, while also removing basic overclocking functionality from non-"K" or "X" product SKUs.


Physically comparing it to the older unlocked i7-4770K, the locked i7-4790 appears to be an identical match, from the IHS down to the PCB substrate. Even its underside is identical because the same LGA1150 socket is used.


After testing the MSI Z97I GAMING mITX motherboard, I slipped the i7-4790 into the tiny motherboard's socket, where I intend to leave it as the basis of a portable gaming rig. Using a CPU with limited power consumption, and, thereby, an easy thermal budget, allows cooling in tight spaces to be taken care of by Intel's stock heatsink, so you will not have to spend more on aftermarket cooling, as many do when purchasing an unlocked "K" CPU. You are actually saving yourself a fair bit more than just $50 here once that shiny new cooler you need to maintain that overclock you got with your unlocked chip is included in the total.