Intel Core i7-4960X Ivy Bridge-E CPU Review

Final Thoughts

Pros:

Fastest desktop CPU on the market
Incredible overclocking potential
Relatively cool running temps

Cons:

Price

All in all, the Intel Core i7-4960X is an absolute monster. It is hands down the fastest desktop CPU available, has insane overclocking potential, and is still able to run cool for a six-core beast. Now to be realistic, for most people (including even us enthusiasts) this chip is just overkill. A Haswell or even 4930K will do everything you would ever need for significantly less money. But this is an Intel Extreme, it’s a halo product. It’s built to be the best of best, pull out all of the stops, and compromise nowhere, and that is exactly what you get.

At about $1000, if you are at all concerned about money or price to performance, there are plenty of other chips out there to suit your need. But if you are one of those people that just have to have the best no matter the cost, then there is just no other choice. The 4960X is the king.