Intel Core i5-4570R
Intel Core i5-4570R: Review and Relevance in 2025
Architecture, Performance, and Use Cases for an Outdated but Interesting Processor
Key Features: Crystal Well in Detail
The Intel Core i5-4570R processor, released in 2013, belongs to the fourth generation of Intel Core (codename - Haswell). Despite its age, it can still be found in compact PCs and systems where balanced performance and energy efficiency are important.
Architecture and Process Technology
- Codebase: Crystal Well - a specialized version of Haswell optimized for integrated graphics.
- Process Technology: 22 nm, which by 2025 is considered outdated (modern processors use 5–7 nm).
- Feature: Equipped with 128 MB of eDRAM, which speeds up the work of the integrated Iris Pro 5200 graphics.
Performance
- Cores/Threads: 4 cores, 4 threads (the lack of Hyper-Threading limits multitasking).
- Frequency: Base - 2.7 GHz, maximum in Turbo mode - 3.2 GHz.
- Cache: L3 - 4 MB (small for modern tasks, but sufficient for basic scenarios).
- Graphics: Iris Pro 5200 with 40 execution units - comparable to entry-level discrete GPUs from 2013-2014 (e.g., NVIDIA GT 740M).
Geekbench 6 (2025)
- Single-Core: 982 points - lower than modern budget processors (e.g., Intel Core i3-13100F - ~2200).
- Multi-Core: 2936 points - comparable to Pentium Gold from 2023.
Compatible Motherboards: BGA Limitations
The processor uses BGA1364 socket, meaning it has a non-removable installation on the motherboard. This imposes significant restrictions:
- Original Boards: Mainly OEM solutions from Intel (e.g., boards for mini-PC NUC series D54250WYK) or industrial solutions.
- Chipsets: Intel HM86/QM87 (for mobile devices) or similar.
- Advice: In 2025, finding new motherboards with this processor is nearly impossible. Ready systems based on i5-4570R are only available on the second-hand market (price: $50–$80 for used PCs).
Memory Support: DDR3L Only
The i5-4570R supports DDR3L-1333/1600 (Low Voltage) memory.
- Maximum Capacity: 32 GB (2 slots).
- Limitations: No support for DDR4/DDR5 - critical for modern applications requiring high bandwidth.
- Example: In 2025, 16 GB of DDR3L will cost around ~$30 (new modules are rare, mostly second-hand).
Power Supply: Minimum Requirements
With a TDP of 65 watts, the processor does not require a powerful PSU:
- Basic PC (office, media center): A power supply of 300–400 watts (e.g., EVGA 400 N1, $35).
- System with Dedicated GPU: If adding a mid-range graphics card like NVIDIA GTX 1650 (TDP 75W), a PSU of 450–500 watts will be needed (Corsair CX450, $55).
Pros and Cons in 2025
Pros:
1. Energy Efficiency: 65W TDP suitable for compact systems.
2. Iris Pro 5200 Graphics: Still handles HD video and older games (e.g., GTA V on low settings).
3. Price: Used systems based on i5-4570R are available for under $100.
Cons:
1. Outdated Architecture: Fails to compete even with budget CPUs from 2025 in multitasking.
2. No Upgrade Path: BGA socket and DDR3L represent a dead-end platform.
3. Lack of Support for Modern Technologies: PCIe 3.0 (instead of 5.0), absence of AI accelerators.
Use Cases: Where It Still Remains Relevant
1. Office Tasks: Document work, browsing, Zoom.
2. Media Center: Playback of 4K video via HDMI 1.4 (limited to 30Hz).
3. Retro Gaming: Games from 2010-2015 (Skyrim, CS:GO on medium settings).
4. Entry-Level Servers: NAS or home server based on Linux.
Real Experience: A user on Reddit built a media center using i5-4570R with Kodi - the system consumes 45 watts at idle and handles 1080p streaming well.
Comparison with Competitors
1. AMD A10-7850K (2014):
- Pros: Better graphics (Radeon R7), unlocked multiplier.
- Cons: Weaker in single-threaded tasks.
2. Intel Core i3-12100 (2023):
- Pros: 4 times higher performance, supports DDR4.
- Cons: A new system will cost $200+ (processor + motherboard).
Assembly Tips in 2025
1. Look for Ready Solutions: Intel NUC D54250WYK - compact and quiet.
2. Save on Memory: Use used DDR3L (2×8 GB for $20).
3. Add SSD: A 512 GB SATA SSD (Crucial MX500, $40) will speed up the system.
4. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quieter operation, replace it with Noctua NH-L9i ($45).
Final Conclusion: Who is the i5-4570R Suitable For?
This processor is a choice for:
- Budget Build Enthusiasts: If you want to assemble a PC for $100-150.
- Retro Tech Lovers: For experiments or nostalgic projects.
- Owners of Old Systems: Upgrade by adding an SSD and optimizing the OS.
Why you shouldn’t consider it in 2025?
For modern tasks (AI, streaming, gaming), the i5-4570R is weak. It’s better to consider the Intel Core i3-N305 (8 cores, 6W TDP, $120) or AMD Ryzen 3 8300G - they offer 3-5 times more performance at a similar price for a new system.
However, if you value the balance between price and sufficient power for basic tasks, the i5-4570R might still be useful.