Apple M4 Max vs Apple M2 Max

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

For most buyers the Apple M4 Max is the better pick — it scores 65/100 to the Apple M2 Max's 42, 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 M4 Max leads overall

Apple M4 Max

Apple M2 Max

Why it stands out

Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 43,862 (63% more)
Core Specifications Cores: 16
Core Specifications Threads: 16

Winner by category for Apple M4 Max vs Apple M2 Max
Category	Apple M4 Max	Apple M2 Max	Winner
Core Specifications	59	27	Apple M4 Max
Integrated Graphics	45	41	Apple M4 Max
Benchmark	78	50	Apple M4 Max

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.

Apple M4 Max

The Apple M4 Max is a high-performance system-on-a-chip designed for intensive computing tasks. It features an advanced architecture with up to 16 performance cores and a powerful graphics section, backed by substantial unified memory capacity. This chip is intended for demanding users, such as videographers, 3D artists, and developers who require maximum computational headroom.

Best for Professional Content CreationBest for High-End DevelopmentBest for Computational Engineering

Pros

Exceptional memory bandwidth is available in configurations supporting up to 128GB of unified memory (Source 1)
The comprehensive processing units include substantial GPU cores (up to 40) alongside a powerful Neural Processing Unit for accelerated AI tasks (Source 1)
Offers some of the most advanced single-core performance available in consumer silicon, targeting high benchmark scores (Source 1)
Designed with efficiencies that yield significant generational improvements in both CPU and GPU performance over previous series (Source 1)

Cons

The chip's complexity suggests a higher power draw requirement compared to lower-tier variants, indicated by its reported TDP (Source 1)
Performance is highly dependent on the specific configuration chosen, especially regarding memory bandwidth and core count (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

Enter today's price for each product to see which offers better value. Use the same currency for both.

Apple M4 Max

Check Price on Amazon

Apple M2 Max

Check Price on Amazon

Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M4 Max43,862

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 M4 Max	Apple M2 Max
Cores	16	12
Threads	16	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	3 nm40% less	5 nm
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M4 Max	Apple M2 Max
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M4 Max	Apple M2 Max
PassMark CPU Mark	43,86263% 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 M4 Max vs Apple M2 Max comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M4 Max rates higher at 75/100 versus 60/100 for Apple M2 Max — a 15-point lead. Apple M4 Max 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 M4 Max 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 75/100 for Apple M4 Max and 60/100 for Apple M2 Max.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M4 Max (75/100) 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.