Intel

Intel BX80633I74960X Core i7-4960X 3.6GHz 6-Core CPU Processor

Push past performance limits with the Intel Core i7-4960X Extreme Edition, a 6-core enthusiast processor built for overclocking and heavy multitasking.

View price on Amazon
Affiliate Disclosure: Studio Supplies may earn a commission from qualifying purchases made through links on this page, at no additional cost to you. This helps support our editorial team.

Notice a mistake? Let Us Know

Overview

Unleash Extreme Performance with Intel Core i7

Introducing the Intel Core i7 4960X, an extreme edition processor designed for enthusiasts and power users. Featuring six cores and ample cache, this processor delivers exceptional performance for demanding applications and gaming.

Specifications:

  • Intel Core i7 4960X
  • 3.6 GHz Clock Speed
  • 6 Cores
  • 12 Threads
  • 15 MB Cache
  • LGA2011 Socket

Pros & Cons

👍 Pros

  • Six cores with 12 threads provide strong multi-threaded performance for rendering, encoding, and multitasking
  • Fully unlocked multiplier allows extensive overclocking headroom for enthusiasts
  • 15MB of L3 cache helps maintain performance in cache-sensitive workloads
  • Quad-channel DDR3 memory support delivers high memory bandwidth for data-intensive tasks

👎 Cons

  • LGA2011 platform is a legacy socket, making compatible motherboards increasingly difficult to find new
  • Based on the older Ivy Bridge-E architecture with higher power consumption than modern processors
  • Does not include a stock cooler, adding additional cost for an aftermarket cooling solution
  • Lacks support for modern features like PCIe Gen 4/5, DDR4/DDR5, and newer instruction sets

Frequently Asked Questions

The i7-4960X uses the LGA2011 socket, which requires a compatible X79 chipset motherboard.
Yes, it is a 6-core, 12-thread processor with Intel Hyper-Threading Technology, allowing it to handle 12 threads simultaneously.
Yes, as an Extreme Edition processor, the i7-4960X has a fully unlocked multiplier, making it designed for overclocking beyond its 3.6GHz base clock.
Intel Extreme Edition processors typically do not include a stock cooler, so you will need to purchase a compatible aftermarket CPU cooler separately.
It supports quad-channel DDR3 memory, which requires an LGA2011 motherboard with four memory channels for optimal performance.