The Core i7-4770K is Intel's fourth generation (codename Haswell) flagship processor in the hugely successful Core range. It's not surprising that the 4770K sets a new Real World Performance index record, besting its predecessor by just over 9%. The 4770K also tops out in the remainder of our benchmarks setting new highs of 10020 and 2164 in the PassMark and PassMark Single Thread tests which equates to roughly an 8% overall performance increase over the 3770K. With a TDP of 84 watts, power consumption has increased slightly over the 3770K. The new Core i7-4770K demonstrates around an 8% performance increase over its predecessor the 3770K but it costs 12% more. As a result, at least until prices drop, this processor represents marginally worse value for money than the 3770K. [Jun '13CPUPro]
This was the ultimate niche CPU. At the time of its release, it had an optimal combination of multi-core performance without sacrificing as much single- and quad- as the higher-core CPUs, at an excellent price-point. It utilizes quad-channel RAM. If you were a content creator without external funding, had one machine in the budget, then this chip might even now in mid-2019 be what you're looking for.
The higher-end Threadrippers will throw more cores at you... for up to five times the price. If you've a home studio, running a DAW on the same PC you use for everything; or you do your own video editing; or you're an independent streamer; then those extra 12 or 18 cores aren't really going to help you that much anyway, for all that extra cash - AND those CPUs have lower performance in more common applications (single- low-thread apps). Not worth it. Intel isn't even on the table, of course.
If you're reading this in the future: these benchmarks have multiple categories for a reason. Read and think. Find the best combination for what you intend to do with it - not some arbitrary "the best" overall. There is no such thing, because you won't be using your computer for Overall, now will you? [Aug '19spacefiddle]
We calculate effective speed which measures real world performance for typical users. Effective speed is adjusted by current prices to yield a value for money rating. Our calculated values are checked against thousands of individual user ratings. The customizable table below combines these factors to bring you the definitive list of top CPUs. [CPUPro]
Welcome to our PC speed test tool. UserBenchmark will test your PC and compare the results to other users with the same components. You can quickly size up your PC, identify hardware problems and explore the best value for money upgrades.