Apple M2 Pro vs Intel Core i7 12850HX

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i7 12850HX is the better pick — it scores 66/100 to the Apple M2 Pro's 53, 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

Key takeaways

  • Intel Core i7 12850HX leads Apple M2 Pro overall by 13 points (66 vs 53 out of 100).
  • Intel Core i7 12850HX stands out on Core Specifications Cores: 16, Core Specifications Threads: 24, Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 30,392 (14% more).
Intel Core i7 12850HX leads overall
Intel Core i7 12850HX
66
Apple M2 Pro
53
Why it stands out
  • Core Specifications Cores: 16
  • Core Specifications Threads: 24
  • Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 30,392 (14% more)

In-depth analysisAI

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

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.

Intel Core i7 12850HX

The Intel Core i7 12850HX is a high-performance mobile processor launched in early 2022 designed for heavy desktop-replacement laptops. Featuring 16 cores and 24 threads, it operates with a 2.1 GHz base clock speed and can boost up to 4.8 GHz. It is intended for power users needing extensive multi-core computational headroom on a mobile platform.

Best for Mobile workstation applications like multi-threaded video rendering and complex Best for Desktop-replacement laptops requiring heavy multi-core processing power
Pros
  • Strong multi-core computational performance delivered through 16 cores and 24 threads
  • Generous 25 MB L3 cache to assist with data-heavy workloads
  • High PassMark benchmark score exceeding 30,000 points
Cons
  • High maximum power consumption of 157 watts requires robust laptop cooling and significantly drains battery life
  • Locked multiplier prevents manual CPU overclocking
  • Basic integrated Intel UHD Graphics require a discrete GPU for 3D rendering or gaming workloads

Value for Money

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Intel Core i7 12850HX

Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M2 Pro26,730
Intel Core i7 12850HX30,392

Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.

Review Videos

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Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Apple M2 Pro vs Intel Core i7 12850HX comparison

They are closely matched: Apple M2 Pro scores 60/100 and Intel Core i7 12850HX 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 Pro and Intel Core i7 12850HX 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 Pro and 60/100 for Intel Core i7 12850HX.
It's close — Apple M2 Pro (60/100) and Intel Core i7 12850HX (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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