Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) vs Apple M2 Pro

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 65/100 to the Apple M2 Pro's 45, leading on Core Specifications and Integrated Graphics. Choose the Apple M2 Pro instead if you want to spend less.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) leads overall

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

Apple M2 Pro

Why it stands out

Integrated Graphics Model: Apple M4 Pro GPU (16 Core)
Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm (40% less)
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 32,723 (22% more)

Winner by category for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) vs Apple M2 Pro
Category	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Apple M2 Pro	Winner
Core Specifications	76	28	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Integrated Graphics	40	37	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Benchmark	66	54	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

In-depth analysisAI

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

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

Apple M2 Pro

The Apple M2 Pro is a specialized system-on-a-chip (SoC) developed by Apple Inc. that powers professional computing devices, such as high-end laptops and desktops. It integrates a powerful multi-core CPU with high-performance integrated graphics and unified memory architecture. This processor is designed for demanding users who require significant computational power for creative or intricate workflows.

Best for Professional creative workloadsBest for High-performance computing tasksBest for Intensive multi-media production

Pros

Offers advanced processing capabilities due to its System on a Chip (SoC) design
Includes a substantial amount of L2 cache, specifically 24 MB as noted in its high-performance specifications
Utilizes an energy-efficient architecture suitable for sustained, demanding tasks
The comprehensive SoC structure handles CPU and GPU operations within a unified system model

Cons

Its specialized nature means it's intended primarily for professional and advanced use cases.
Specific detailed performance metrics relative to newer or higher-tier silicon are not provided in the grounding sources.

Source

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Jun 28, 2026

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

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Apple M2 Pro

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)32,723

Apple M2 Pro26,730

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 Pro (12 Core)	Apple M2 Pro
Cores	12	12
Threads	12	12
Base Frequency	N/A	N/A
Base Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
Maximum Frequency	4.51 GHz	N/A
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	N/A
L1 Cache	N/A	N/A
L2 Cache	36 MB	N/A
L3 Cache	N/A	N/A
Lithography Process	3 nm40% less	5 nm
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Apple M2 Pro
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Apple M2 Pro
PassMark CPU Mark	32,72322% more	26,730

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 Pro (12 Core) vs Apple M2 Pro comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) rates higher at 70/100 versus 60/100 for Apple M2 Pro — a 10-point lead. Apple M4 Pro (12 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 M4 Pro (12 Core) and Apple M2 Pro 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 70/100 for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) and 60/100 for Apple M2 Pro.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) (70/100) edges out Apple M2 Pro (60/100). But if Apple M2 Pro 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.