Intel Core i7 12700F vs Apple M2 Pro

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i7 12700F is the better pick — it scores 69/100 to the Apple M2 Pro's 54, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Apple M2 Pro instead if integrated graphics matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core i7 12700F leads overall

Intel Core i7 12700F

Apple M2 Pro

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Threads: 20
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 30,128 (13% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core i7 12700F vs Apple M2 Pro
Category	Intel Core i7 12700F	Apple M2 Pro	Winner
Core Specifications	84	52	Intel Core i7 12700F
Integrated Graphics	0	53	Apple M2 Pro
Benchmark	62	55	Intel Core i7 12700F

In-depth analysisAI

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

Intel Core i7 12700F

The Intel Core i7 12700F is a 12-core, 20-thread desktop processor designed for the LGA1700 platform. Featuring a 65W base power rating and maximum boost speeds up to 4.9 GHz, it offers robust multi-threaded processing for mainstream desktops. Because it lacks integrated graphics and features a locked multiplier, it is meant for builders planning to use a dedicated graphics card without overclocking.

Best for Mid-to-high-end gaming desktop builds paired with a standalone graphics cardBest for Multi-threaded productivity tasks requiring solid out-of-the-box performance wit

Pros

Strong multi-threaded performance with 12 cores and 20 threads
Modest 65W base thermal power limit under typical operation
High peak clock speeds reaching up to 4.9 GHz

Cons

Requires a discrete graphics card due to no integrated GPU
Locked multiplier prevents manual CPU overclocking
Maximum power consumption increases up to 180W under heavy boost workloads

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

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 i7 12700F

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Apple M2 Pro

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core i7 12700F30,128

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	Intel Core i7 12700F	Apple M2 Pro
Cores	12	12
Threads	20	12
Base Frequency	2.1 GHz	N/A
Base Power Consumption	65 W	N/A
Maximum Frequency	4.9 GHz	N/A
Maximum Power Consumption	180 W	N/A
L1 Cache	1,024 KB	N/A
L2 Cache	12 MB	N/A
L3 Cache	25 MB	N/A
Lithography Process	7 nm	5 nm29% less
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core i7 12700F	Apple M2 Pro
Model	N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core i7 12700F	Apple M2 Pro
PassMark CPU Mark	30,12813% 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 Intel Core i7 12700F vs Apple M2 Pro comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core i7 12700F scores 61/100 and Apple M2 Pro scores 60/100 in our overall comparison — within 1 point. Neither is a clear winner overall, so the decision comes down to the specific features and price that matter most to you.

Intel Core i7 12700F 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 61/100 for Intel Core i7 12700F and 60/100 for Apple M2 Pro.

It's close — Intel Core i7 12700F (61/100) and Apple M2 Pro (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.