Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M1 Pro 10 Core rates higher at 67/100 versus 53/100 for Apple M2 Pro 12 Core — a 14-point lead. Apple M1 Pro 10 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 Pro 10 Core vs Apple M2 Pro 12 Core
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple M1 Pro 10 Core leads Apple M2 Pro 12 Core overall by 8 points (65 vs 57 out of 100).
- Apple M1 Pro 10 Core stands out on Core Specifications Maximum Frequency: 3.9 GHz, Core Specifications L2 Cache: 20,480 MB, Core Specifications L3 Cache: 24,576 MB.
Apple M1 Pro 10 Core leads overall
Apple M1 Pro 10 Core
65
Apple M2 Pro 12 Core
57
Why it stands out
- Core Specifications Maximum Frequency: 3.9 GHz
- Core Specifications L2 Cache: 20,480 MB
- Core Specifications L3 Cache: 24,576 MB
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple M1 Pro 10 Core
The Apple M1 Pro chip is an advanced System-on-a-chip powered by ARM architecture, built with specialized performance and efficiency cores. It is designed for users who require substantial computing power beyond standard productivity tasks, catering to creative professionals and developers.
Best for Creative professional workflowsBest for Software developmentBest for High-performance computing tasks
Pros
- Feature a robust, hybrid CPU design utilizing both high-performance and hyper-efficient core clusters (Source 1)
- Enhanced memory bandwidth compared to base M1 variants, using LPDDR5 memory (Source 1)
- Includes an advanced integrated graphics unit with a higher core count than the base M1 chip (Source 1)
Cons
- While highly capable, it represents a generation of silicon that has been succeeded by newer processing chips (Source 1)
Apple M2 Pro 12 Core
The Apple M2 Pro is a powerful system-on-a-chip designed for professionals who require extensive creative and computing capabilities. It uses Apple's custom architecture, offering a significant boost in performance over previous generations of Macs. This chip powers devices intended for demanding tasks such as complex video editing, graphic design, and software development.
Best for Professional video editingBest for High-resolution graphic designBest for Software development
Pros
- It provides a strong balance of processing power through its specific core count of 8 performance and 4 efficiency cores (unbinned model) (Source 1)
- Users benefit from high bandwidth memory with LPDDR5, providing fast data transfer across all components (Source 1)
- The integrated GPU is designed for enhanced graphics performance, suitable for demanding visual workloads (Source 1)
- It supports advanced connectivity features including Thunderbolt 4 (Source 1)
Cons
- Its existence within a tiered system means that even its professional versions are surpassed by the M2 Max and M2 Ultra options in workstation contexts (Source 1)
- Performance scaling is tied to specific chassis models, meaning users must select hardware based on required memory bandwidth (Source 1)
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 M1 Pro 10 Core
Apple M2 Pro 12 Core
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple M1 Pro 10 Core21,726
Apple M2 Pro 12 Core26,457
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 Pro 10 Core vs Apple M2 Pro 12 Core comparison
Apple M1 Pro 10 Core and Apple M2 Pro 12 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 67/100 for Apple M1 Pro 10 Core and 53/100 for Apple M2 Pro 12 Core.
If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M1 Pro 10 Core (67/100) edges out Apple M2 Pro 12 Core (53/100). But if Apple M2 Pro 12 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.