Looking to upgrade your PC with an LGA 1150 CPU? Whether you’re reviving an older system or building a reliable workstation on a budget, choosing the right processor is key to unlocking optimal performance.

The LGA 1150 socket, also known as Socket H3, supports Intel’s 4th and 5th generation Core processors, including the popular Haswell and Broadwell architectures. These CPUs offer a great balance of performance and efficiency for gaming, productivity, and general use.

Because matching the right CPU to your system can dramatically improve speed, multitasking, and stability especially if you’re working with legacy hardware or limited upgrade paths.

In this guide, you’ll get dive into everything you need to know about LGA 1150 processors and find the best CPU for your build.

LGA 1150 CPU List: Complete Guide to Intel Haswell & Broadwell Processors

The LGA 1150 socket, also known as Socket H3, was a key platform in Intel’s processor roadmap, providing a solid foundation for both consumer and professional desktops.

Overview of LGA 1150 (Socket H3)

• Release Year: 2013
• Supported Architectures:
  • Intel Haswell (4th Gen) – Launched with improved integrated graphics and power efficiency.
  • Intel Broadwell (5th Gen) – A refined 14nm die shrink of Haswell, offering even better thermals and performance.
• Memory Compatibility:
  • Supports DDR3 and DDR3L RAM (typically up to 1600 MHz depending on CPU and motherboard support).
• Platform Placement:
  • Successor to LGA 1155, which supported Sandy Bridge and Ivy Bridge CPUs.
  • Predecessor to LGA 1151, used by Skylake, Kaby Lake, and Coffee Lake processors.

This socket was widely adopted across entry level desktops, mid range gaming rigs, and even small business systems for its strong balance between performance and cost.

Compatible Chipsets

The LGA 1150 socket works with a variety of Intel 8 and 9 series chipsets. Each chipset offers different features based on target users (gamers, business, mainstream):

Tip: For overclockers, Z87 and Z97 chipsets paired with a “K” series CPU (like the i7-4790K) deliver the best performance and tweaking flexibility.

Comprehensive LGA 1150 CPU List

The LGA 1150 socket supports a broad range of Intel processors from budget friendly Pentiums to powerful Core i7s and Xeons. Here’s a categorized breakdown of the most popular and relevant CPUs compatible with this socket.

Intel Core i7 Series – High Performance

Best for: High end gaming, productivity, and light workstation use.

Intel Core i5 Series – Balanced Mid-Range

Best for: Gaming builds, general computing, and budget productivity systems.

Intel Core i3 Series – Entry-Level Efficiency

Best for: Office tasks, media centers, and light duty desktops.

Intel Pentium & Celeron Series – Budget and Basic Use

Best for: Low cost builds, light browsing, and educational use.

Intel Xeon Series – Workstation & Server-Grade

Best for: Budget servers, video editing, and users needing ECC RAM support.

Tip: The i7-4790K and Xeon E3-1231 v3 are often regarded as the best performance-per-dollar CPUs for LGA 1150, especially for power users and gamers.

LGA 1150 CPU Comparison Chart (Performance Overview)

Best LGA 1150 CPUs Ranked (Performance-to-Value)

 Expert CPU Recommendations by Use Case

For Gaming:

• Best Choice: i7-4790K (High performance + overclocking)
• Budget Option: i5-4690K or G3258 (with a discrete GPU)

For Productivity & Multitasking:

• Best Choice: Xeon E3-1231 v3 (Hyper-threading, stable, cost-efficient)
• Alternative: i7-4770 (slightly cheaper than 4790K)

For Office or Home Use:

• Best Choice: i3-4160 or i3-4370 (efficient, great performance for daily tasks)
• Low Budget Option: Celeron G1840 (for browsing and light usage)

For Video Editing or Light Workstations:

• Best Choice: i7-5775C (for media tasks needing good integrated graphics)
• Alternative: Xeon E3-1276 v3 (if paired with a GPU)

Upgrade Tip: If you plan to keep your LGA 1150 system for a few more years, the i7-4790K or E3-1231 v3 are still viable in 2025 with sufficient RAM and SSD storage.

Performance Benchmarks

To give you a clear sense of what each LGA 1150 CPU can do, here are comparisons based on PassMark scores, gaming benchmarks, and productivity performance:

The Xeon E3-1231 v3 offers the best productivity performance (due to hyper threading) while the i7-4790K is top for gaming and overclocking enthusiasts.

Overclocking Potential

If you’re into tweaking performance:

• Best Overclocking CPU:
  • i7-4790K – Known to hit stable 4.6–4.8 GHz with proper cooling.
  • Pentium G3258 – A cult classic for budget overclockers; easily goes above 4.2 GHz.
• Moderate Overclockers:
  • i5-4690K – Solid performer for mid-tier builds, stable OC to ~4.4 GHz.
  • i7-5775C – Less common, but capable of modest OC (has excellent iGPU instead).

Note: Use a Z87 or Z97 motherboard to enable overclocking on these unlocked chips.

Integrated Graphics Comparison

LGA 1150 CPUs offer a range of integrated graphics options that are useful for users without a discrete GPU.

• For integrated graphics use, the i7-5775C with Iris Pro 6200 is unmatched.
• The HD Graphics 4600 found in most LGA 1150 CPUs is fine for video playback, browsing, and light gaming.

Looking to upgrade or compare options? Don’t miss our Comprehensive LGA 1151 CPU List: Compatible Intel Processors Guide that packed with the latest specs, top picks, and performance insights for your next build or upgrade. 

Compatibility & Upgrade Considerations

Before purchasing or upgrading to an LGA 1150 CPU, it’s crucial to ensure your system components are fully compatible. This includes checking BIOS versions, cooler support, and memory configurations.

BIOS Updates

Many LGA 1150 motherboards launched with support for Haswell CPUs only, so if you’re installing a Broadwell processor (like the i7-5775C), a BIOS update may be required.

Without the proper BIOS version, the system may not boot or recognize the newer CPU.

 How to Check: Visit your motherboard manufacturer’s support page and locate the CPU compatibility list.

• Pro Tip: Always perform BIOS updates using a stable power source and follow manufacturer instructions carefully to avoid bricking the motherboard.

Cooler Compatibility

LGA 1150 uses the LGA 115x mounting standard, which is shared with:

• LGA 1150
• LGA 1151
• LGA 1155
• LGA 1156

That means:

• You can use virtually any cooler designed for LGA 115x sockets that both air and liquid coolers.
• Many modern coolers still include LGA 115x brackets, even in 2025.
• Cooling Tip: If you plan to overclock (especially with chips like the i7-4790K or G3258), opt for a high-performance air cooler or a 240mm AIO liquid cooler.

Memory Support

All LGA 1150 CPUs and motherboards support DDR3 memory, typically up to 1600 MHz officially (some boards allow overclocked memory speeds).

• Supported Memory Types: DDR3 and DDR3L (1.35V low voltage memory)
• Configuration Tip: Use dual channel mode for best performance and  install RAM sticks in matched pairs.
• Not Supported: DDR4 memory is not compatible with LGA 1150 platforms.
• Recommended Capacity:
  • 4–8 GB for light usage (office, browsing)
  • 16 GB for gaming and productivity
  • 32 GB for workstation or heavy multitasking setups (if supported by your board)

Real-World Use Cases & Longevity in 2025

Even in 2025, LGA 1150 CPUs still have practical applications especially for users on a tight budget, retro gamers, or those managing legacy systems.

Everyday Computing

• Office Work & Browsing: CPUs like the i3-4160 or Pentium G3258 (with an SSD upgrade) still handle word processing, spreadsheets, and web browsing effectively.
• Media Centers/HTPCs: The i7-5775C shines in small form factor systems thanks to its powerful Iris Pro 6200 iGPU and low thermal output.

Budget Gaming Builds

• Entry Level Gaming: Paired with GPUs like the GTX 1050 Ti or RX 570, CPUs like the i5-4690K or i7-4770 can still deliver solid 1080p performance in many modern games.
• eSports Titles: CS:GO, DOTA 2, League of Legends, and Fortnite run well on most quad core LGA 1150 CPUs with modest GPU support.

Light Workstations

• Photo & Video Editing: Xeon E3-1231 v3 offers hyper threading, ECC RAM support, and reliable multitasking for editing in Adobe Premiere, Lightroom, etc.
• Virtualization & Lab Environments: Ideal for developers and IT professionals experimenting with VMs or lightweight server hosting.

Retro Gaming & Emulation

• Emulation Power: i7 and Xeon models provide enough grunt to handle Dolphin, PCSX2, and even some early PS3 titles in RPCS3.

Legacy Support: Great for running older games and applications that don’t perform well on newer architectures.

Expert & Community Insights on LGA 1150 CPU Upgrades

Professional Recommendations

According to PC Guide, the Intel Core i7-4790K stands out as a top choice for the LGA 1150 socket. It offers a quad core design with 8 threads, high clock speeds, and ample thermal headroom for overclocking, making it suitable for casual gaming and work tasks.

For users seeking a cost effective alternative, the Intel Xeon E3-1231 v3 is recommended. It provides performance comparable to the i7-4790K but at a lower price point, making it ideal for budget conscious users.

Community Feedback

In discussions on Tom’s Hardware forums, users have shared their experiences with LGA 1150 CPU upgrades:

• One user noted that upgrading to an i7-4770K or Xeon E3-1231 v3 can significantly enhance performance for the platform, especially when not utilizing integrated graphics.
• Another user mentioned that the i7-4790K is the top-of-the-line processor for the LGA 1150 socket, highlighting its overclocking capabilities and performance benefits.

On Reddit’s r/buildapc community, a user recommended the i7-4790K as the best option for the LGA 1150 socket, noting its superior performance and the potential need for a BIOS update.

Common Queries related to the LGA 1151 CPU List

LGA 1151 CPU List

The LGA 1151 socket, also known as Socket H4, supports two generations of Intel processors:

• 6th & 7th Gen (Skylake & Kaby Lake): These CPUs are compatible with 100 and 200 series chipsets.
• 8th & 9th Gen (Coffee Lake & Coffee Lake Refresh): These require 300 series chipsets due to power delivery changes.

Notable CPUs include:

• Intel Core i3-6100: 2 cores, 4 threads, 3.7 GHz.
• Intel Core i5-9600K: 6 cores, 6 threads, 3.7 GHz base, 4.6 GHz turbo.
• Intel Core i7-7700K: 4 cores, 8 threads, 4.2 GHz base, 4.5 GHz turbo.
• Intel Core i9-9900K: 8 cores, 16 threads, 3.6 GHz base, 5.0 GHz turbo.

For a detailed list, you can refer to CPU World’s LGA 1151 CPU List.

LGA 1150 Best CPU

The Intel Core i7-4790K is widely regarded as the top-performing CPU for the LGA 1150 socket. It features 4 cores and 8 threads with a base clock of 4.0 GHz and a turbo boost up to 4.4 GHz. Its unlocked multiplier allows for overclocking, making it a favorite among enthusiasts.

Another notable option is the Intel Xeon E3-1231 v3, which offers similar performance to the i7-4790K but lacks integrated graphics. It’s often chosen for its cost-effectiveness and reliability in workstation setups.

LGA 1150 Processor Generation

The LGA 1150 socket supports two Intel processor generations:

• 4th Generation (Haswell): Introduced in 2013, these CPUs brought improved integrated graphics and power efficiency.
• 5th Generation (Broadwell): Released in 2015, Broadwell CPUs are a die shrink of Haswell, offering better thermals and slightly improved performance.

Both generations are compatible with LGA 1150 motherboards, though BIOS updates may be required for Broadwell CPUs.

LGA 1150 Motherboards

LGA 1150 motherboards come with various chipsets catering to different needs:

• Z97 & Z87: Designed for enthusiasts and overclockers, supporting unlocked CPUs and multiple GPUs.
• H97 & H87: Targeted at mainstream users, offering a balance between features and cost.
• B85 & H81: Budget-friendly options suitable for basic computing tasks.
• Q87 & Q85: Business-oriented boards with features like Intel vPro and enhanced security.

For a comprehensive list of LGA 1150 motherboards, visit Pangoly’s LGA 1150 Motherboard List.

LGA 1155 CPU List

The LGA 1155 socket, also known as Socket H2, supports Intel’s 2nd and 3rd generation Core processors:

• Intel Core i7-3770K: 4 cores, 8 threads, 3.5 GHz base, 3.9 GHz turbo.
• Intel Core i5-3570K: 4 cores, 4 threads, 3.4 GHz base, 3.8 GHz turbo.
• Intel Core i3-3220: 2 cores, 4 threads, 3.3 GHz.

These CPUs are compatible with 6-series and 7-series chipsets. For more details, refer to CPU-World’s LGA 1155 CPU List.

LGA 1150 CPU List for Gaming

For gaming purposes, the following LGA 1150 CPUs are recommended:

• Intel Core i7-4790K: Excellent single thread performance and overclocking capabilities.
• Intel Core i5-4690K: Great performance for its price, especially when overclocked.
• Intel Core i7-5775C: Features Iris Pro 6200 integrated graphics, suitable for gaming without a discrete GPU.

These CPUs, paired with a capable GPU, can handle modern games at respectable settings.

LGA 1150 CPU List Reddit Insights

Reddit communities often discuss the best CPUs for LGA 1150:

• A user on r/buildapc mentioned, “A used 4790K is the best option, you won’t get anything more powerful.” Reddit
• Another user highlighted the value of the Xeon E3-1231 v3, stating it’s a cost-effective alternative to the i7-4790K. Reddit

These discussions emphasize the i7-4790K’s performance and the Xeon E3-1231 v3’s value proposition.

LGA 1150 Processor i7

Intel’s Core i7 processors for the LGA 1150 socket include:

• i7-4770: 4 cores, 8 threads, 3.4 GHz base, 3.9 GHz turbo.
• i7-4770K: Unlocked multiplier for overclocking, 3.5 GHz base, 3.9 GHz turbo.
• i7-4790: 3.6 GHz base, 4.0 GHz turbo.
• i7-4790K: 4.0 GHz base, 4.4 GHz turbo, unlocked for overclocking.
• i7-5775C: 3.3 GHz base, 3.7 GHz turbo, features Iris Pro 6200 graphics.

These processors offer a range of options for users seeking high performance computing on the LGA 1150 platform.

Conclusion: Is LGA 1150 Still Worth It?

For users who already own an LGA 1150 system or are building on a tight budget, these CPUs still hold surprising value in 2025. While they don’t compete with modern platforms on raw performance, they’re more than capable for:

• Entry level gaming
• Multimedia and daily use
• Lightweight productivity

Choose an i7-4790K or Xeon E3-1231 v3 if you want the most balanced performance and longevity from this aging but reliable socket.