3570 Will I regret buying a "K" CPU?

[+LogicalApex MVC]

Wouldn't you rather not go through the RMA stuff though? I had to RMA 2 AMD CPUs and it wasn't that fun. I'd rather buy better stuff I wouldn't have to RMA. Not chance anything.

I have a K and I run VMs fine BTW. Using Hyper-v

Not saying the RMA would be fun, I've never done it with Intel, but that if Intel is warranting the CPU for 3 years then I'm sure their cooler is designed well enough to handle normal load.

Yes, a K series CPU will support virtualization, as all newer Intel chips do, but it won't support all of Intel virtualization features. Notably Intel VT-d; Virtualized Direct-I/O support. Essentially it speeds up I/O access in VMs and reduces load on the CPU by allowing it to not waste clock cycles virtualizing the I/O subsystem. So it results in a faster VM and the ability to run more VMs/more responsive host.

[Elliot B.]

I don't use VMs but I MIGHT one day overclock.

The CPU is already on its way, so I have two choices: Keep it - or send it back, get a refund, and order the K. The second option could take two weeks :/

[remixedcat]

I still don't get why you are all saying it's a good idea to cheap out like that and have crappy cooling but, whatevs.

Don't come bawwing on here that you fried your CPU....

[Elliot B.]

I still don't get why you are all saying it's a good idea to cheap out like that and have crappy cooling but, whatevs. Don't expect to be bawwing over it later.

It's not "cheaping out" if someone has no plans to overclock. A stock cooler from Intel will be sufficient for almost the while life of the chip.

[Draconian Guppy]

I've never overclocked, and have never once had an issue with a stock CPU cooler. Intel aren't stupid :o

Still, it's always a good idea to have a better than rated cooler. OCing or not.

Disagree kitteh, stock Ivy bridge coolers are more than enough if you have an adequate airflow in your case.

The reason I would buy a K cpu, is after reading ( an article here on neowin) that they're are cherry picked and inspected individually, if that adds any peace of mind anyway in case of failure after warranty, less chance of RMA, etc.

[primexx]

It all depends on your needs as the K and non K chips aren't 100% identical. For instance, K series chips lack VT-d support. If you're planning on using VMs a lot and not planning on overclocking then a K series chip is worse off than a non-K. Basically, it all depends on your needs and what the chip offers. But a K isn't the same as a non-K with the ability to overclock. Intel doesn't like to make anything that easy :p

Keep in mind that if your CPU roasted due to a failure of the stock fan when properly installed Intel would be obligated to replace it for you as long as you purchased the retail chip. Intel gives all of their retail chips a three year warranty. As a result, I'm sure the stock cooler is more than enough unless you have needs that extend beyond that (overclocking, quieter operation, etc.).

I'm surprised it took this long for anyone to mention this. The K version lacks features and processors are plenty fast these days to eliminate the need to overclock unless you're doing it for fun. the default choice should be the non-K version.

[MorganX]

You will only regret the K if you need to Virtualize Peripherals for VMs. Chances of this being an issue on a desktop are slim to none.

The K fully supports hardware assisted virtualization, VT-x. It does not support Directed I/O, VT-d. Allowing multiple VMs direct access to hardware and I/O devices.

I'm surprised it took this long for anyone to mention this. The K version lacks features and processors are plenty fast these days to eliminate the need to overclock unless you're doing it for fun. the default choice should be the non-K version.

Gamers and enthusiasts always have a need to overclock. ;>

I think the default choice should be the K version. They are generally 10% cheaper and for a desktop VT-d is simply not needed 99.99999% of the time.

[The_Decryptor Veteran]

Not having VT-d on the K models is really strange, even the Intel guy who did an AmA on Reddit didn't realise that it was missing. It's useful for virtual machines but it's also useful as a security measure (It allows the OS/hardware to e.g. segment off parts of memory so a device driver can't do DMA outside the allowed bounds, which is super useful for Thunderbolt/Firewire)

[Elliot B.]

You will only regret the K if you need to Virtualize Peripherals for VMs. Chances of this being an issue on a desktop are slim to none.

The K fully supports hardware assisted virtualization, VT-x. It does not support Directed I/O, VT-d. Allowing multiple VMs direct access to hardware and I/O devices.

Gamers and enthusiasts always have a need to overclock. ;>

I think the default choice should be the K version. They are generally 10% cheaper and for a desktop VT-d is simply not needed 99.99999% of the time.

They're never cheaper in the UK.

[MorganX]

They're never cheaper in the UK.

If that's the case, then yeah, I'd get the non-K. Wonder why that is?

[Elliot B.]

If that's the case, then yeah, I'd get the non-K. Wonder why that is?

Because K are cherry-picked and unlockable. Of course they're more expensive. They're enthusiast variants.

[MorganX]

Because K are cherry-picked and unlockable. Of course they're more expensive. They're enthusiast variants.

No I mean why they're more expensive in the UK and cheaper in USA.

Edit: Actually I just checked Newegg and it has reversed itself. Wasn't that way last month and most of the year. hmmmm.

[Elliot B.]

No I mean why they're more expensive in the UK and cheaper in USA.

Ooh! :) Probably a few reasons, including the fact they're made there and your tax system is different.

[Draconian Guppy]

Uk gets more taxes right?

[YounGMessiah]

I would go with the 3570K, I have it and did NOT invest (yet) into an after market cooler and the stock has been great! I used my motherboard to I guess overclock my system using the Asus Optimal setting and with then it (in OS) OCs (the turbo feature) to 4GHz and the temp might get to 40-45 degress celcius at most.

Edit: Other reason im sticking with the stock cooler for now, is if any chance it craps out it will make life easier with Intel :p

[Elliot B.]

Uk gets more taxes right?

Yes, but we don't have to pay for our general heathcare. This is going off-topic :p

[J400uk]

I've got a 3770K but its never been overclocked and probably never will be. Don't really regret it either way!

[Hebulba]

It's not even necessary to get K processor to overclock but it makes overclocking a lot easier.

I haven't had any unlocked processors in the past and have always OC'd by changing bus frequency.

After my i7 930 gets obsolete I just might get one that's unlocked be it Hashwell or Broadwell.

[YounGMessiah]

I love the K because of the capability, from installing it default it amazed me with it now reaching 4GHz with turbo, so no need for me to mess with anything especially since its stable.

Oh and I love how the core voltage typically uses less than 1V

[Elliot B.]

I love the K because of the capability, from installing it default it amazed me with it now reaching 4GHz with turbo, so no need for me to mess with anything especially since its stable.

Oh and I love how the core voltage typically uses less than 1V

Everything you mentioned is standard on the non K, too.

[YounGMessiah]

You quoted the most important words "because of the capability"

Example of when my CPU goes on more of a load, look at max temp on CPU

[Raa]

I didn't get a K cpu. No regrets.