Intel Core i5-4440S
Intel Core i5-4440S: Review and Relevance in 2025
Haswell architecture, energy efficiency, and use cases
Key Specifications: What the i5-4440S Offers
The Intel Core i5-4440S processor, released in 2013, is still found in budget PCs and upgrade systems. Let's examine its key parameters:
- Architecture: Haswell (4th generation Intel Core).
- Process Technology: 22 nm — a progressive standard for its time but now outdated (modern CPUs use 5–7 nm).
- Cores and Threads: 4 cores, 4 threads — the lack of Hyper-Threading limits multitasking.
- Frequency: Base — 2.8 GHz, maximum in turbo mode — 3.3 GHz.
- Cache: L3 — 6 MB, which is sufficient for basic tasks but limited for heavy applications.
- TDP: 65 W — low power consumption for a desktop CPU.
- Graphics: Intel HD 4600 — supports 4K via DisplayPort but is weak for gaming (e.g., CS:GO on low settings — 40–50 FPS).
- Performance: Geekbench 6 — 808 (Single-Core), 2040 (Multi-Core). For comparison, the modern Ryzen 5 5500 scores around ~1500/4500.
Key Features:
- Energy efficiency — suitable for compact builds.
- Support for AVX2 instructions — accelerates media processing.
- Integrated graphics — allows for a PC to be built without a discrete graphics card.
Compatible Motherboards: What to Choose in 2025
The processor uses the LGA 1150 socket, which is no longer supported by new motherboards. Current chipsets:
- H81/B85: Budget options with basic features (USB 3.0, SATA III). Example: ASUS H81M-K ($50–70 in 2025).
- H87/H97: Enhanced capabilities — RAID support, more SATA ports.
- Z87/Z97: For enthusiasts — overclocking (though the i5-4440S has a locked multiplier).
Choosing Considerations:
- New LGA 1150 motherboards are rarely produced, so look for them on the secondary market.
- Check the condition of VRM modules — old boards often suffer from bulging capacitors.
- Update BIOS to the latest version for compatibility with Windows 11 (requires UEFI and Secure Boot).
Supported Memory: DDR3 and Its Limitations
The i5-4440S only works with DDR3-1600 MHz (maximum of 32 GB in dual-channel mode).
Recommendations:
- Use two 8 GB modules to activate dual-channel mode (e.g., Kingston HyperX Fury DDR3-1600).
- Avoid memory with high latency (CL9–11 is optimal).
- DDR4/DDR5 are not supported — this is a major limitation for upgrades.
Power Supply: Power Calculation
With a TDP of 65 W, the processor does not require a powerful PSU, but it's important to consider other components:
- Without a discrete graphics card: A 300 W PSU is sufficient (e.g., be quiet! SFX Power 3 300W, $45).
- With a graphics card like NVIDIA GTX 1650: A 400–450 W PSU is recommended (Corsair CX450M, $55).
- Tips:
- Choose units with an 80+ Bronze certificate or higher.
- Avoid cheap no-name models — unstable voltage can damage components.
Pros and Cons of the i5-4440S
Advantages:
- Low power consumption — ideal for office PCs and media centers.
- Reliability — a tried and true architecture.
- Affordable price on the secondary market ($30–50 in 2025).
Disadvantages:
- No support for DDR4/PCIe 4.0 — limits upgrades.
- Weak performance in modern games and applications (e.g., Blender or Premiere Pro).
- Lack of Hyper-Threading — falls short in multi-threaded tasks.
Use Cases: Where the CPU is Still Relevant
1. Office Tasks: Document work, browsing, Zoom — the processor handles it without lag.
2. Multimedia: Watching 4K videos (thanks to HD 4600), music streaming.
3. Casual Gaming: Dota 2, Minecraft, indie projects (at medium settings).
4. Home Server: Low TDP allows for energy savings.
Practical Example:
A user built a PC using the i5-4440S and GTX 1050 Ti for their child — the system runs Fortnite at 60 FPS (on Low settings).
Comparison with Competitors
- AMD FX-8350: 8 cores, but weak Single-Core performance (~600 in Geekbench 6). Better for rendering but worse for gaming.
- Intel Core i3-10100: 4 cores/8 threads, Geekbench 6 — 1200/3800. Newer architecture but requires a motherboard replacement.
- Ryzen 3 3200G: Integrated Vega 8 graphics stronger than HD 4600, but more expensive ($90–100).
Conclusion: The i5-4440S falls behind modern counterparts but remains attractive on a tight budget.
PC Building Tips for the i5-4440S
1. Motherboard: Look for models with USB 3.1 and M.2 (e.g., ASRock H97M Pro4 — M.2 slot via adapter).
2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for quiet operation, consider the DeepCool GAMMAXX 400 ($20).
3. Storage: Use an SSD (Samsung 870 EVO 500 GB, $45) to speed up the system.
4. Upgrade: Add a graphics card such as GTX 1660 Super — this is the maximum balance with the CPU.
Final Conclusion: Who Is the i5-4440S Suitable For?
This processor is worth considering in three cases:
1. Budget Builds: When you need to assemble a PC for $150–200 (considering used components).
2. Upgrading an Old Computer: Replacing an outdated Pentium or Core i3 in an LGA 1150 setup.
3. Energy-Efficient Systems: Media centers, office PCs, home servers.
Why Is It Still Relevant in 2025?
Despite its age, the i5-4440S remains a reliable solution for undemanding tasks. Its key advantages are its price and minimal power consumption. However, for gaming, video editing, or AI work, a more modern CPU should be chosen.
The article is current as of April 2025. Prices are indicated for new components if available on the market.