Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Apple M4 Pro (12 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 62/100 to the Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core's 58, leading on Core Specifications. Choose the Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core instead if integrated graphics and benchmark matter most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) and Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core are closely matched

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core

Where Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) stands out

Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm (40% less)

Where Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 20
Core Specifications Threads: 20
Integrated Graphics Model: Apple M1 Ultra GPU

Winner by category for Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Category	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core	Winner
Core Specifications	75	30	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Integrated Graphics	36	49	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core
Benchmark	60	74	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 Nov 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 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

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 M4 Pro (12 Core)

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core41,396

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)32,723

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 M1 Ultra 20 Core	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Cores	20	12
Threads	20	12
Base Frequency	N/A	N/A
Base Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
Maximum Frequency	N/A	4.51 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
L1 Cache	N/A	N/A
L2 Cache	N/A	36 MB
L3 Cache	N/A	N/A
Lithography Process	5 nm	3 nm40% less
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
PassMark CPU Mark	41,39627% more	32,723

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 M4 Pro (12 Core) comparison

They are closely matched: Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core scores 72/100 and Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) scores 70/100 in our overall comparison — within 2 points. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core and Apple M4 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 72/100 for Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core and 70/100 for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core).

It's close — Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core (72/100) and Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) (70/100) 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.