Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core

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

For most buyers the Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) is the better pick — it scores 67/100 to the Apple M1 Max 10 Core's 39, 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

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) leads overall

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

Apple M1 Max 10 Core

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 12
Core Specifications Threads: 12
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 32,723 (48% more)

Winner by category for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core
Category	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Apple M1 Max 10 Core	Winner
Core Specifications	76	27	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Integrated Graphics	54	0	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Benchmark	68	45	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

In-depth analysisAI

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

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

The Apple M4 Pro (12-core) is a powerful system-on-a-chip built on second-generation 3-nanometer technology, designed to handle demanding workflows for researchers, developers, engineers, and creative professionals. It features a robust multi-core CPU configuration, high-bandwidth unified memory support, and advanced hardware acceleration for complex tasks and AI workloads.

Best for building and testing applications across multiple simulatorsBest for complex 3D rendering and visual effects workflowsBest for running demanding on-device AI and machine learning tasks

Pros

Exceptional single-threaded and multi-threaded CPU performance
Significantly increased unified memory bandwidth compared to previous generations
Advanced hardware-accelerated ray-tracing for improved 3D rendering and gaming
Integrated support for Thunderbolt 5 connectivity on compatible Mac devices

Cons

High cost associated with stepping up to pro-tier Apple silicon hardware
Unified memory cannot be upgraded post-purchase

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 M4 Pro (12 Core)

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Apple M1 Max 10 Core

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)32,723

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.

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	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	4.51 GHz	N/A
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
L1 Cache	N/A	N/A
L2 Cache	36 MB	N/A
L3 Cache	N/A	N/A
Lithography Process	3 nm40% less	5 nm
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Apple M1 Max 10 Core
Model		N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Apple M1 Max 10 Core
PassMark CPU Mark	32,72348% 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 M4 Pro (12 Core) vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) rates higher at 70/100 versus 55/100 for Apple M1 Max 10 Core — a 15-point lead. Apple M4 Pro (12 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 M4 Pro (12 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 70/100 for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) and 55/100 for Apple M1 Max 10 Core.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) (70/100) 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.