Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core

Updated Jun 2026 · Scored by the Let’s Compare Data Engine · How we score

For most buyers the Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core is the better pick — it scores 62/100 to the Apple M1 Max 10 Core's 42, leading on Core Specifications and Integrated Graphics. Choose the Apple M1 Max 10 Core instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Key takeaways

  • Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core leads Apple M1 Max 10 Core overall by 20 points (62 vs 42 out of 100).
  • Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core stands out on Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 41,396 (87% more), Core Specifications Cores: 20, Core Specifications Threads: 20.
Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core leads overall
Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core
62
Apple M1 Max 10 Core
42
Why it stands out
  • Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 41,396 (87% more)
  • Core Specifications Cores: 20
  • Core Specifications Threads: 20

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core

The Apple M1 Ultra is an extremely powerful System-on-a-Chip designed for high-end, professional workstations. It combines two independently connected M1 Max units via the 'UltraFusion' interconnect to significantly increase computational throughput. This processor is suited for users who require maximum performance for intensive creative and scientific workloads.

Best for Professional video editingBest for 3D Rendering/VFXBest for Computational modeling
Pros
  • High core count structure, featuring a total of 20 CPU cores and dedicated high-bandwidth interconnectivity (Source 1)
  • Significant memory capacity options are available, supporting up to 128 GB of LPDDR5 RAM (Source 1)
  • Achieves exceptional performance by combining two M1 Max units, effectively doubling peak capabilities (Source 1)
Cons
  • The high resource requirements make it unsuitable for most general-purpose computing tasks
  • It is a discontinued processor, limiting modern upgrade paths and support options (Source 1)

Apple M1 Max 10 Core

The Apple M1 Max processor is a high-performance, professional-grade chip designed for powerful computing tasks. Its architecture separates general computation from advanced graphical and media workloads. This CPU/GPU combination suits users who require peak efficiency and raw power for demanding applications.

Best for Video EditingBest for 3D RenderingBest for Professional Design/Development
Pros
  • Features a robust core structure combining multiple high-performance and energy-efficient CPU cores
  • Offers extensive memory capacity up to 64GB using LPDDR5 technology
  • Provides highly scalable GPU acceleration due to its multi-core design (up to 32 cores)
  • Designed with high transistor counts (57 billion) for complex and demanding tasks (Source 1)
Cons
  • The chip is designed for mobile/desktop integration, potentially limiting some standalone upgrade options
  • Requires modern operating systems to fully utilize its advanced ARM architecture capabilities
  • Is positioned at a higher end of Apple's silicon product line

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core

Apple M1 Max 10 Core

Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core41,396
Apple M1 Max 10 Core22,155

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core rates higher at 72/100 versus 55/100 for Apple M1 Max 10 Core — a 17-point lead. Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.
Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core and Apple M1 Max 10 Core are compared side by side above across every spec in the cpus category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 72/100 for Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core and 55/100 for Apple M1 Max 10 Core.
If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core (72/100) edges out Apple M1 Max 10 Core (55/100). But if Apple M1 Max 10 Core is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.

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