Intel Core i7-7740X X-Series desktop processor LGA 2066 112W

Socket LGA 2066 quad-core

The Intel Core i7-7740X is a desktop processor built for the LGA 2066 platform. It delivers four cores and eight threads with a 4.3 GHz base clock and a 4.5 GHz max turbo frequency. The 14nm Kaby Lake X architecture supports DDR4-2666 memory in dual-channel mode. It targets enthusiasts who need high single-thread speed on an X299 chipset board.

Check motherboard and cooling

Verify that your motherboard uses the Intel X299 chipset and an LGA 2066 socket before ordering. The CPU has a 112W thermal design power and ships without a cooler or thermal paste, so a suitable aftermarket solution is required. Ensure the BIOS version supports Kaby Lake X processors. Only sixteen PCI Express 3.0 lanes are available from the chip itself.

Upgrade from quad-core mainstream

This processor replaces a mainstream four-core CPU when you need the X299 platform's quad-channel memory capability and additional connectivity. The jump is worthwhile if your workload benefits from higher clock speeds and the 8MB L3 cache on a 14nm design. It fits builds that prioritise frequency over core count within the 112W envelope.