I7 4790k running at 4.6GHz with a 1.16v golden chip?
I7 4790k running at 4.6GHz with a 1.16v golden chip?
Hello! I have some questions about my 4790k. I've been checking out overclocks for it and want to know how much performance I can achieve. From what I've heard, my 4790k @4.6Ghz at 1.16v seems quite strong, possibly with a Golden Chip. I have a picture of CPU-Z and am considering upgrading once I get a new AIO cooler this weekend. So far, the temperatures aren't too high. Is my 4790k a golden chip? Could I push it to 4.8Ghz, 4.9Ghz, or even 5Ghz?
You observed those ~65'C temperatures under normal operating conditions or during synthetic stress tests. The performance was solid at 1.168V, but it's unclear if it reaches higher values under full load. The 4.6GHz result isn't a definitive benchmark by itself; it tends to be achieved more often with slightly higher voltages, typically above 1.2V. Achieving higher frequencies like 4.7GHz is largely dependent on luck and the specific conditions of the test.
It makes sense that it crashed under those conditions, since 4.7GHz at less than 1.17V probably exceeds the chip's limits—even if it were a top model.
The AIO (with the right version) can push the voltage slightly higher while managing temperatures, so you can test what works.
For HAswell/Devil's Canyon, the ideal maximum core voltage is around 1.3V.
You currently have some flexibility, but other elements like your board's power delivery and VRM cooling needs also matter.
Just a note—there’s no certainty, which is why it’s called the silicon lottery… but reaching a stable 1.168V at 4.6GHz is a promising sign. You might expect to go a bit higher within that small margin.
Good luck!
For my motherboard I'm using is a Gigabyte GA‑Z97X‑UD3H. It's a decent board.
Update: My current speed is around 4.7Ghz at 1.168/1.1715v (CPUZ reports 1.168v and CoreTemp shows 1.1715v). I'm not sure which reading to trust. Temperatures are staying below 71°C.