Apple M2 Max vs Intel Core i5 13600

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i5 13600 is the better pick — it scores 66/100 to the Apple M2 Max's 53, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Apple M2 Max instead if integrated graphics matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Key takeaways

  • Intel Core i5 13600 leads Apple M2 Max overall by 13 points (66 vs 53 out of 100).
  • Intel Core i5 13600 stands out on Core Specifications Cores: 14, Core Specifications Threads: 20, Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 31,017 (16% more).
Intel Core i5 13600 leads overall
Intel Core i5 13600
66
Apple M2 Max
53
Why it stands out
  • Core Specifications Cores: 14
  • Core Specifications Threads: 20
  • Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 31,017 (16% more)

In-depth analysisAI

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

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.

Intel Core i5 13600

The Intel Core i5-13600 is recognized as a mid-range processor from Intel's lineup. It provides robust computational power suitable for users who handle demanding tasks without needing the absolute top-tier performance available.

Best for productivityBest for general use
Pros
  • Its designation as part of the Core series indicates it benefits from modern architectural advancements in CPU design.
  • The sheer capacity of the Core i5 line generally makes it highly versatile for productivity and gaming workloads.
Cons
  • While mid-range, performance may be significantly surpassed by higher-tier Intel CPUs suitable for extreme computing tasks.

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.

Intel Core i5 13600

Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M2 Max26,839
Intel Core i5 1360031,017

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Apple M2 Max vs Intel Core i5 13600 comparison

They are closely matched: Apple M2 Max scores 60/100 and Intel Core i5 13600 scores 60/100 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 M2 Max and Intel Core i5 13600 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 60/100 for Apple M2 Max and 60/100 for Intel Core i5 13600.
It's close — Apple M2 Max (60/100) and Intel Core i5 13600 (60/100) 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.

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