Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core rates higher at 58/100 versus 49/100 for Apple M1 Pro 8 Core — a 9-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 vs Apple M1 Pro 8 Core
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple M1 Pro 8 Core and Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core are closely matched overall (within 1 point).
- Apple M1 Pro 8 Core stands out on Core Specifications L1 Cache: 2,380 KB, Core Specifications L2 Cache: 28 MB, Core Specifications L3 Cache: 8 MB.
- Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core counters with Core Specifications Cores: 20, Core Specifications Threads: 20, Core Specifications Base Frequency: 3.1 GHz.
Apple M1 Pro 8 Core and Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core are closely matched
Apple M1 Pro 8 Core
57
Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core
56
Where Apple M1 Pro 8 Core stands out
- Core Specifications L1 Cache: 2,380 KB
- Core Specifications L2 Cache: 28 MB
- Core Specifications L3 Cache: 8 MB
Where Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core stands out
- Core Specifications Cores: 20
- Core Specifications Threads: 20
- Core Specifications Base Frequency: 3.1 GHz
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 Pro 8 Core
The Apple M1 Pro is an advanced, power-efficient system-on-a-chip designed for professional computing tasks. It incorporates a blended CPU architecture featuring both high-performance and energy-efficient cores. This processor is built for users who require substantial processing capability without excessive power draw.
Best for video productionBest for software developmentBest for complex content creation
Pros
- Offers significant performance gains over previous architectures due to its hybrid core design (M1 Pro) in the Apple silicon family.
- The chip integrates graphics, processing, and memory controllers onto a single die, improving system-level efficiency.
- High-bandwidth LPDDR5 memory is utilized for substantial memory speed, supporting intensive workloads.
Cons
- Compared to the highest-tier M1 Max variants, users select fewer total cores on the base models.
- Its discontinuation signals that newer, more powerful professional silicon upgrades are available from Apple’s lineup.
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
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Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core
Apple M1 Pro 8 Core
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core26,695
Apple M1 Pro 8 Core17,198
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 Pro 8 Core comparison
Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core and Apple M1 Pro 8 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 58/100 for Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core and 49/100 for Apple M1 Pro 8 Core.
If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core (58/100) edges out Apple M1 Pro 8 Core (49/100). But if Apple M1 Pro 8 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.