Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Apple M2 Max

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

For most buyers the Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core is the better pick — it scores 61/100 to the Apple M2 Max's 47, leading on Core Specifications and Integrated Graphics. Choose the Apple M2 Max instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core leads overall

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core

Apple M2 Max

Why it stands out

Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 41,396 (54% more)
Core Specifications Cores: 20
Core Specifications Threads: 20

Winner by category for Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Apple M2 Max
Category	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core	Apple M2 Max	Winner
Core Specifications	45	41	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core
Integrated Graphics	48	40	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core
Benchmark	76	51	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core

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 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

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core

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Apple M2 Max

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core41,396

Apple M2 Max26,839

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 M1 Ultra 20 Core	Apple M2 Max
Cores	20	12
Threads	20	12
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 M1 Ultra 20 Core	Apple M2 Max
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core	Apple M2 Max
PassMark CPU Mark	41,39654% more	26,839

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 M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Apple M2 Max comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core rates higher at 72/100 versus 60/100 for Apple M2 Max — a 12-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 and Apple M2 Max 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 72/100 for Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core and 60/100 for Apple M2 Max.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core (72/100) edges out Apple M2 Max (60/100). But if Apple M2 Max 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.