Apple M4 Max vs Apple M6

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

The Apple M4 Max and Apple M6 are closely matched at 59 and 58/100. The Apple M4 Max edges ahead on Integrated Graphics and Benchmark, while the Apple M6 leads on Core Specifications — pick the one whose strengths match what you'll actually use.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple M4 Max and Apple M6 are closely matched

Apple M4 Max

Apple M6

Where Apple M4 Max stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 16
Core Specifications Threads: 16
Integrated Graphics Model: Apple M4 Max GPU

Where Apple M6 stands out

Core Specifications Lithography Process: 2 nm (33% less)

Winner by category for Apple M4 Max vs Apple M6
Category	Apple M4 Max	Apple M6	Winner
Core Specifications	32	53	Apple M6
Integrated Graphics	45	38	Apple M4 Max
Benchmark	75	63	Apple M4 Max

In-depth analysisAI

AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Nov 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 M6

The Apple M6 is an ARM-based system-on-a-chip manufactured using TSMC's 2 nm process, designed for entry-level Mac desktops and laptops. It features a 12-core CPU architecture alongside a 12-core GPU and a dual 16-core Neural Engine. Capable of supporting up to 32 GB of unified memory with bandwidth reaching 170 GB/s, it caters to mainstream consumers and everyday creative workloads.

Best for Accelerated on-device machine learning and AI workload executionBest for Mainstream video editing utilizing hardware ProRes and AV1 decodingBest for Multi-display desktop setups running high-refresh-rate 4K monitors

Pros

Built on an advanced 2 nm fabrication node for higher efficiency and transistor density
Dual 16-core Neural Engine delivers significantly higher compute performance for on-device AI tasks
Upgraded GPU architecture includes dynamic caching and hardware-accelerated ray tracing
Expanded display engine supports two external 4K monitors at up to 165 Hz

Cons

No high-end M6 Pro or M6 Max variants are offered in this chip generation
Higher entry price point for associated Mac hardware compared to previous iterations

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

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Apple M6

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M4 Max43,862

Apple M635,823

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 M6
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 nm	2 nm33% less
Is unlocked	No	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M4 Max	Apple M6
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M4 Max	Apple M6
PassMark CPU Mark	43,86222% more	35,823

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 M6 comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M4 Max rates higher at 75/100 versus 71/100 for Apple M6 — a 4-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 M6 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 71/100 for Apple M6.

If you want the higher-rated cpus option overall, Apple M4 Max (75/100) edges out Apple M6 (71/100). But if Apple M6 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.