Intel Core i9 12900H vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i9 12900H is the better pick — it scores 65/100 to the Apple M1 Max 10 Core's 49, 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

Intel Core i9 12900H leads overall

Intel Core i9 12900H

Apple M1 Max 10 Core

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 14
Core Specifications Threads: 20
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 26,524 (20% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core i9 12900H vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core
Category	Intel Core i9 12900H	Apple M1 Max 10 Core	Winner
Core Specifications	85	51	Intel Core i9 12900H
Integrated Graphics	44	0	Intel Core i9 12900H
Benchmark	58	48	Intel Core i9 12900H

In-depth analysisAI

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

Intel Core i9 12900H

The Intel Core i9 12900H is a high-performance mobile processor designed for intensive laptops like portable workstations and gaming rigs. Released in early 2022, it features 14 cores, 20 threads, and maximum clock speeds reaching up to 5.0 GHz. Manufactured on a 7nm lithography process, this chip incorporates 24 MB of L3 cache alongside integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics for basic display management.

Best for High-end mobile gaming setups paired with a dedicated graphics cardBest for Demanding creative workloads like high-resolution video rendering and 3D asset c

Pros

High 14-core, 20-thread configuration delivers solid multi-threaded performance
Reaches peak boost frequencies of up to 5.0 GHz for responsive single-core execution
Large 24 MB L3 cache facilitates fast data access during complex processing tasks
Includes integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics for display output without requiring continuous discrete GPU power

Cons

Maximum power consumption reaches 115W under full load, requiring robust thermal solutions and shortening battery life
Locked design prevents manual core overclocking

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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Intel Core i9 12900H

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Apple M1 Max 10 Core

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core i9 12900H26,524

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	Intel Core i9 12900H	Apple M1 Max 10 Core
Cores	14	10
Threads	20	10
Base Frequency	2.5 GHz	N/A
Base Power Consumption	45 W	N/A
Maximum Frequency	5 GHz	N/A
Maximum Power Consumption	115 W	N/A
L1 Cache	1,248 KB	N/A
L2 Cache	11.5 MB	N/A
L3 Cache	24 MB	N/A
Lithography Process	7 nm	5 nm29% less
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900H	Apple M1 Max 10 Core
Model		N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900H	Apple M1 Max 10 Core
PassMark CPU Mark	26,52420% 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 Intel Core i9 12900H vs Apple M1 Max 10 Core comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core i9 12900H scores 56/100 and Apple M1 Max 10 Core scores 55/100 in our overall comparison — within 1 point. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.

Intel Core i9 12900H 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 56/100 for Intel Core i9 12900H and 55/100 for Apple M1 Max 10 Core.

It's close — Intel Core i9 12900H (56/100) and Apple M1 Max 10 Core (55/100) score almost the same. Pick based on price and the individual specs that matter most to you; the comparison above shows where each one pulls ahead.