Apple M2 Max 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 M2 Max is the better pick — it scores 53/100 to the Apple M1 Max 10 Core's 46, leading on Integrated Graphics and Benchmark. Choose the Apple M1 Max 10 Core instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple M2 Max leads overall

Apple M2 Max

Apple M1 Max 10 Core

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 12
Core Specifications Threads: 12
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 26,839 (21% more)

Winner by category for Apple M2 Max vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core
Category	Apple M2 Max	Apple M1 Max 10 Core	Winner
Core Specifications	44	42	Tie
Integrated Graphics	57	0	Apple M2 Max
Benchmark	59	48	Apple M2 Max

In-depth analysisAI

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

Apple M2 Max

The Apple M2 Max is a high-performance system-on-a-chip designed by Apple Inc., intended for professional computing tasks. Due to its advanced specifications, it powers applications requiring intensive computational resources, such as video editing and 3D rendering. It is best suited for creative professionals and developers who demand top-tier performance in portable forms.

Best for Video ProductionBest for 3D RenderingBest for Software Development

Pros

Offers substantial processing power through a combined CPU/GPU design.
The integrated graphics capability (up to 76 cores) provides extensive visual compute resources.
Features advanced memory support, capable of high data transfer rates (LPDDR5 up to 192 GB).

Cons

While powerful, the chip is designed for professional workloads rather than routine general computing.
Its high specification level may result in a premium cost point.

Source

Video — reviews used (2)

Generated Jun 28, 2026

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

Enter today's price for each product to see which offers better value. Use the same currency for both.

Apple M2 Max

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Apple M1 Max 10 Core

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M2 Max26,839

Apple M1 Max 10 Core22,155

See the raw benchmark values →

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

Review Videos

Hand-picked expert reviews for each product

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Apple M2 Max	Apple M1 Max 10 Core
Cores	12	10
Threads	12	10
Base Frequency	N/A	N/A
Base Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
Maximum Frequency	N/A	N/A
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
L1 Cache	N/A	N/A
L2 Cache	N/A	N/A
L3 Cache	N/A	N/A
Lithography Process	5 nm	5 nm
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M2 Max	Apple M1 Max 10 Core
Model		N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M2 Max	Apple M1 Max 10 Core
PassMark CPU Mark	26,83921% more	22,155

Specification Note

Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Apple M2 Max vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M2 Max rates higher at 60/100 versus 55/100 for Apple M1 Max 10 Core — a 5-point lead. Apple M2 Max 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 M2 Max 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 60/100 for Apple M2 Max and 55/100 for Apple M1 Max 10 Core.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M2 Max (60/100) 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.