Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Intel Core Ultra 5 245K

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

For most buyers the Intel Core Ultra 5 245K is the better pick — it scores 75/100 to the Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core's 56, leading on Core Specifications. Choose the Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core instead if integrated graphics matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K leads overall

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core

Why it stands out

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

Winner by category for Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core vs Intel Core Ultra 5 245K
Category	Intel Core Ultra 5 245K	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core	Winner
Core Specifications	94	28	Intel Core Ultra 5 245K
Integrated Graphics	20	55	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core
Benchmark	72	70	Tie

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)

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K

The Intel Core Ultra 5 245K is a mid-range desktop processor belonging to Intel's Core Ultra 200S series (Arrow Lake generation). Built for general desktop computing, it targets users who need a balance of everyday system performance and content creation capabilities. However, third-party benchmarks highlight significant performance trade-offs, particularly for PC gaming enthusiasts.

Best for Productivity-focused desktop builds prioritizing power efficiency over peak gamiBest for Content creation tasks like video editing and 3D rendering on a mid-range budget

Pros

Improved power efficiency and thermal management during operation
Solid performance in creative and productivity applications such as rendering and photo editing

Cons

Underwhelming and unexpectedly slow performance in gaming workloads compared to expectations
Poor cost-per-frame value for dedicated gaming builds

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core

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Intel Core Ultra 5 245K

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core41,396

Intel Core Ultra 5 245K42,980

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	Intel Core Ultra 5 245K
Cores	20	14
Threads	20	14
Base Frequency	N/A	4.2 GHz
Base Power Consumption	N/A	125 W
Maximum Frequency	N/A	5.2 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	159 W
L1 Cache	N/A	1,440 KB
L2 Cache	N/A	26 MB
L3 Cache	N/A	24 MB
Lithography Process	5 nm	3 nm40% less
Is unlocked	No	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core	Intel Core Ultra 5 245K
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core	Intel Core Ultra 5 245K
PassMark CPU Mark	41,396	42,9804% more

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 Intel Core Ultra 5 245K comparison

They are closely matched: Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core scores 72/100 and Intel Core Ultra 5 245K scores 72/100 in our overall comparison — within 1 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 Intel Core Ultra 5 245K 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 72/100 for Intel Core Ultra 5 245K.

It's close — Apple M1 Ultra 20 Core (72/100) and Intel Core Ultra 5 245K (72/100) 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.