Intel Core i5-4670S
Intel Core i5-4670S: Review and Relevance in 2025
Haswell Architecture, Energy Efficiency, and Use Cases
Key Specifications: What Does the i5-4670S Offer in 2025?
The Intel Core i5-4670S processor, released in 2013, is still found in budget builds and office PCs. Let's take a look at its key parameters:
- Architecture and Process: Haswell, 22 nm. Improved IPC (instructions per cycle) compared to Ivy Bridge, supports AVX2 and FMA3 for computational acceleration.
- Cores and Threads: 4 cores, 4 threads. The absence of Hyper-Threading limits multitasking, but it is sufficient for basic tasks.
- Cache and Frequency: L3 cache — 6 MB, base frequency — 3.1 GHz, turbo mode — up to 3.8 GHz.
- Integrated Graphics: Intel HD 4600. Suitable for HD video and light gaming (e.g., CS:GO on low settings).
- TDP: 65 W — energy efficiency remains a strong point.
- Performance: Geekbench 6 — 1085 (Single-Core), 3079 (Multi-Core). For comparison, the modern Ryzen 5 5500 scores around 1800/6000 but costs 2-3 times more.
Key Features:
- Support for virtualization (VT-x, VT-d).
- Power-saving technologies (SpeedStep, C-states).
- Overclocking capability via multiplier (only on Z87/Z97 chipsets).
Compatible Motherboards: What to Look for in 2025?
The processor uses the LGA 1150 socket, which is no longer supported by modern motherboards. Main chipsets:
- H81/B85: Budget options with basic functionality (USB 3.0, SATA III).
- H87/Z87: Enhanced features — RAID, overclocking (Z87).
- H97/Z97: Updated versions with support for M.2 (via adapters) and Broadwell.
Choosing Tips:
- Look for boards with functioning VRM modules (e.g., ASUS H97-PRO).
- Ensure that the BIOS is updated to the latest version.
- New boards are no longer manufactured — only used ones. Average price on the secondary market — $30–$60.
Supported Memory: DDR3 in the Age of DDR5
The i5-4670S only works with DDR3 (1333/1600 MHz). In 2025, this is an outdated standard, but modules are still available:
- Recommended capacity: 16 GB (2×8 GB) for multitasking.
- Dual-channel mode is essential to maximize bandwidth.
- Average price for new DDR3-1600 8 GB modules — $25–$35 (e.g., Kingston HyperX Fury).
Important: DDR3 consumes more power than DDR4/DDR5 and does not support ECC.
Power Supply: How Many Watts Are Needed?
With a TDP of 65 W, the i5-4670S does not require a powerful PSU, but it's important to consider other components:
- For a system without a discrete graphics card: 300–400 W is sufficient (e.g., be quiet! System Power 10 400W, $45).
- With a graphics card like the NVIDIA GTX 1650: 450–500 W (EVGA 500 BR, $55).
- An 80+ Bronze certification or higher is mandatory for stability.
Pros and Cons: Is It Worth Buying in 2025?
Pros:
- Low power consumption.
- Sufficient performance for office and media tasks.
- Availability of integrated graphics.
- Affordable price (used — $25–$40).
Cons:
- Outdated socket and DDR3.
- No support for PCIe 4.0, NVMe (only through adapters).
- Weak for modern gaming and heavy workloads.
Use Cases: Where Is the Processor Still Relevant?
1. Office PCs: Document work, browsing, Zoom.
2. Media Centers: 4K playback via HDMI 1.4 (limited to 30 Hz).
3. Light Gaming: Dota 2, Minecraft, older AAA titles on low settings.
4. Entry-Level Servers: NAS or home server running Linux.
Real-World Example: A user built a PC with i5-4670S + GTX 1050 Ti for streaming retro games — the system's power consumption does not exceed 150 W.
Comparison with Competitors
- Intel Core i3-12100 (2023): 4 cores/8 threads, DDR4, ~$120. Single-threaded performance is 70% higher.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500 (2022): 6 cores/12 threads, DDR4, ~$100. Better choice for gaming.
- Intel Core i5-4670S: Lags in multi-threading but wins on price for basic tasks.
Practical Building Tips
1. SSD is a Must: Install a SATA SSD (e.g., Crucial MX500 500 GB, $45) instead of an HDD.
2. Cooling: The stock cooler is sufficient, but for silence, choose a DeepCool GAMMAXX 400 ($20).
3. Upgrade: Add a graphics card like the RX 6400 (no extra power supply required) for gaming.
4. OS: Windows 10/11 (with limitations) or Linux (full support).
Final Conclusion: Who Is the i5-4670S Suitable For?
This processor is ideal for:
- Budget Builds: If you need a PC for $100–$150.
- Upgrading Old Systems: Replacing weaker CPUs on LGA 1150.
- Retro Hardware Enthusiasts: Building a PC in the style of the 2010s.
2025 Alternatives: If the budget allows, it’s better to opt for the Ryzen 5 5500 or Intel i3-12100 — they offer modern technologies and future-proofing.
Price: New processors from this generation are not sold, used ones — starting from $20.