Haswell vs. Haswell-E

March 26, 2015

You’re ready to make the plunge into a new Intel PC. But which processor architecture/socket should you choose? Haswell (often called Intel 4th gen Core processors) in an LGA 1150 socket or Haswell-E/EP (refered to as Intel Core Extreme processors) in an LGA 2011 socket are the two main options today, each with its own Pro and Cons, each filling a specific need for a specific type of customer. Let’s break down those options to help you make the most informed decision possible on Haswell vs. Haswell-E.

Haswell

Officially known as 4th Gen Intel Core, the Haswell microarchitecture is designed specifically for performance benefits at minimal power consumption, making it ideal for a wide range of users, form factors, and chipsets. Desktop versions of the Haswell processor use the LGA 1150 socket with chipsets like Z97, H97, B85, and H81.

Our Most Popular Haswell CPUs – Core i7-4790k, Core i7-4790, Core i5-4690, Core i5-4590

Pros:

  • Lower pricepoint makes them more accessible to mainstream
  • 6-10% improved performance at less power consumption than predecessor (Ivy Bridge)
  • Integrated graphics produce around 20% better performance than previous generation
  • 1150 Socket is known for its overclockability and durability compared to previous generation 1155

Cons:

  • Corresponding chipsets/socket are limited to 4 RAM DIMM slots
  • Maximum of 4-cores with Hyperthreading

Best For – Mainstream Gaming, Home & Office

Haswell-E/EP

Officially known as 5th Gen Core i7 Extreme Edition processors for consumer and Intel Xeon E5 2600 v3 for workstation/Enterprise, Haswell-E is best for higher demand users like extreme gamers or media creators. More efficient use of RAM and support for DDR4 go a long way to better overall performance. Desktop versions use the LGA 2011-3 socket and X99 chipset.

Our Most Popular Haswell-E CPUs – Core i7-5820k, Core i7-5930K, Core i7-5960X

Pros:

  • I7’s have up to 8-Cores with Hyperthreading, Xeons 14-Cores with Hyperthreading
  • 8 RAM DIMM slots for a maximum 64GB RAM with more supported in dual CPU configurations
  • Support for DDR4 memory
  • X99 chipset with i7-5930k or i7-5960X has 40 PCIe 3.0 lanes for better graphic performance in SLI configurations

Cons:

  • More expensive than mainstream Haswell
  • No integrated video option

Best For – Extreme Gaming, Workstation

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Josh Covington

Josh has been with Velocity Micro since 2007 in various Marketing, PR, and Sales related roles. As the Director of Sales & Marketing, he is responsible for all Direct and Retail sales as well as Marketing activities. He enjoys Seinfeld reruns, the Atlanta Braves, and Beatles songs written by John, Paul, or George. Sorry, Ringo.

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