Performance comparison: which is faster?
Core i5-9400 (Intel, 2019) and Core i7-4790 (Intel, 2014) are compared here. Compare not only scores, but also whether the motherboard can be reused and which GPU class is balanced with each CPU.
Overall performance: nearly equal
The sockets differ (LGA1151 / LGA1150), so switching requires a motherboard replacement. For games, performance balance with the GPU (guideline CPU:GPU = 0.9:1) matters more than CPU speed alone.
Relative performance score (higher is faster). Actual speed varies by workload, cooling, and memory configuration.
| Item | i5-9400 | i7-4790 |
|---|---|---|
| Performance Score | 10,500 | 10,500 |
| Generation | 9th Gen | 4th Gen |
| Socket | LGA1151 | LGA1150 |
| Release Year | 2019 | 2014 |
| Type | Desktop | Desktop |
| Compatible GPU Example | GeForce RTX 5050 | GeForce RTX 2060 |
| If You Want To... | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Prioritize maximum speed for heavy work or a high-end GPU | i5-9400 |
| Upgrade while reusing the current motherboard | Choose the CPU matching your motherboard socket |
| Prioritize value and adequate performance | i5-9400 (the lower model is often sufficient) |
Their scores are nearly identical (i5-9400: 10500 points / i7-4790: 10500 points). Choose the less expensive option or the one that fits your current motherboard.
i5-9400 is 9th Gen, while i7-4790 is 4th Gen.The sockets differ (LGA1151 / LGA1150), so switching requires a motherboard replacement.
Using our CPU:GPU = 0.9:1 guideline, GeForce RTX 5050 pairs well with i5-9400 and GeForce RTX 2060 pairs well with i7-4790. If either GPU is too strong or too weak, one part holds the other back.
