Intel Core i7-4785T
Intel Core i7-4785T: Architecture, Compatibility, and Use Cases in 2025
Overview of an outdated, yet still relevant processor for specific tasks
Key Features: Haswell in the Modern World
The Intel Core i7-4785T processor, released in 2013, belongs to the Haswell architecture (4th generation Core). Despite its age, it maintains niche popularity due to its unique features:
- Manufacturing Process and TDP: 22 nm, thermal design power of 35W — one of the most energy-efficient in the Haswell lineup.
- Cores and Threads: 4 cores / 8 threads (Hyper-Threading). Base frequency — 2.2 GHz, maximum turbo frequency — 3.2 GHz.
- Graphics: Intel HD 4600 (base frequency 200 MHz, dynamic — 1200 MHz). Supports 4K via DisplayPort but lacks HDMI 2.0 support.
- Cache: L3 — 8 MB.
- Performance: In Geekbench 6 (2025) — 975 (single-core), 3001 (multi-core). For comparison, the modern budget Core i3-13100 (2023) scores ~2400/8500.
Key Features:
- Low power consumption — suitable for passive cooling systems.
- Support for vPro and TXT technologies for corporate security.
Compatible Motherboards: Searching in 2025
The processor uses the LGA1150 socket, limiting the choice of motherboards to models from 2013-2015.
- Chipsets: H81, B85, H87, Q87, Z87, Z97.
- Choosing Features:
- Z87/Z97 — memory overclocking and RAID support.
- H81/B85 — budget options but with PCIe 2.0 and SATA 3.0 limitations.
Prices in 2025: New motherboards are rare. For example, the ASUS H81M-K from leftover stock is sold for $90-120, while the high-end ASUS Z97-A can go up to $150.
Tip: Check for USB 3.0 and M.2 support (only through adapters, as native NVMe slots are absent).
Memory: Only DDR3
The processor supports DDR3-1333/1600 in dual-channel mode. The maximum capacity is 32 GB (dependent on the motherboard).
- Recommendations: Use low-voltage modules (1.35 V) to reduce heating.
- Limitations: Frequencies above 1600 MHz are not supported without overclocking, which makes the system less responsive in modern applications.
Example: A set of 16 GB DDR3-1600 (2x8 GB) will cost around $45-60 (new Kingston ValueRAM modules).
Power Supply: Minimum Power Needed
With a TDP of 35W, the processor works well even with low-wattage PSUs.
- Recommendations:
- For a system without a discrete graphics card: 250-300W (for example, be quiet! SFX Power 3 — $55).
- With an NVIDIA GTX 1650 level graphics card: 400-450W (Corsair CX450 — $65).
Important: Ensure the PSU has a 4-pin EPS12V connector for stable power.
Pros and Cons: Who Is Haswell Still Relevant For?
Advantages:
- Energy efficiency: Ideal for HTPCs or mini PCs.
- Multithreading: 8 threads handle video encoding or virtualization well.
- Price: The processor itself on the second-hand market is priced between $50-70.
Disadvantages:
- Outdated architecture: Lacks in IPC compared to even budget Intel 12th generation processors.
- No support for DDR4/PCIe 4.0: Upgrade limitations.
- Weak graphics: HD 4600 cannot handle modern games.
Use Cases: Where the i7-4785T Still Shines
1. Office Tasks: Working with documents, browsing, Zoom.
2. Media Center: Streaming 4K video (via DisplayPort), Plex server.
3. Home Server: NAS based on Proxmox or TrueNAS.
4. Retro Gaming: Emulators for consoles up to PS2 or 2010s games at low settings.
Example: A compact PC build in a Silverstone ML05 case (11L capacity) with passive cooling — a quiet media center for $300-400.
Comparison with Competitors: What to Choose Instead?
- Intel Core i3-13100 (2023): 4 cores / 8 threads, DDR4, TDP 60W. Price — $120. Performance is 40-60% higher.
- AMD Ryzen 5 5500 (2022): 6 cores / 12 threads, DDR4, TDP 65W. Price — $110. Best choice for multitasking.
- Intel N100 (2023): 4 cores, TDP 6W. Price — $80. More economical, but weaker in multi-threading.
Conclusion: The i7-4785T falls short against modern counterparts but excels in specific scenarios (e.g., replacing an old PC without a complete upgrade).
Practical Assembly Tips
1. Cooling: Even the stock cooler will suffice, but for a quiet system, choose the Noctua NH-L9i ($45).
2. Storage: Use SSD SATA (e.g., Crucial MX500 1TB — $70). M.2 NVME is unavailable without an adapter.
3. Drivers: Install Windows 10 LTSC or Linux (Ubuntu LTS) for better support.
Final Conclusion: Who Is the i7-4785T Suitable For in 2025?
This processor is worth considering only in three cases:
1. Upgrading an Old PC: If you already have an LGA1150 motherboard.
2. Energy-Efficient Projects: Media centers or servers with low TDP.
3. Budget Builds: When aiming to stay within $200-300.
For new systems, it's better to opt for modern processors—they offer better performance, support for new standards, and long-term relevance. However, the i7-4785T remains an example of a "survivor" chip that can still tackle niche tasks even 12 years after its release.