Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) vs Intel Core i9 12900K

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i9 12900K is the better pick — it scores 69/100 to the Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)'s 61, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) instead if integrated graphics matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core i9 12900K leads overall

Intel Core i9 12900K

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 16
Core Specifications Threads: 24
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 41,096 (26% more)

Winner by category for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) vs Intel Core i9 12900K
Category	Intel Core i9 12900K	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Winner
Core Specifications	72	68	Intel Core i9 12900K
Integrated Graphics	22	46	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Benchmark	73	60	Intel Core i9 12900K

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

Intel Core i9 12900K

The Intel Core i9-12900K is a high-performance CPU built by Intel. It belongs to the twelve-generation family of processors, targeting users who require maximum computational power.

Best for High-end workstationsBest for Content creationBest for Extreme gaming

Pros

Provides top-tier multi-core performance, suitable for heavy multitasking or demanding applications.
Belongs to the 12th generation line-up (Alder Lake), indicating a significant architectural step forward in Intel's core product range.

Cons

As a high-performance chip, it is designed to draw substantial power and may require robust cooling solutions.
The fact that the general Intel Core article lists many subsequent generations (up to 14th generation) suggests that this model is part of an evolving platform.

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.

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

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Intel Core i9 12900K

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)32,723

Intel Core i9 12900K41,096

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)	Intel Core i9 12900K
Cores	12	16
Threads	12	24
Base Frequency	N/A	3.2 GHz
Base Power Consumption	N/A	125 W
Maximum Frequency	4.51 GHz	5.2 GHz15% more
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	241 W
L1 Cache	N/A	1,408 KB
L2 Cache	36 MB157% more	14 MB
L3 Cache	N/A	30 MB
Lithography Process	3 nm57% less	7 nm
Is unlocked	No	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Intel Core i9 12900K
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Intel Core i9 12900K
PassMark CPU Mark	32,723	41,09626% more

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 Intel Core i9 12900K comparison

They are closely matched: Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) scores 70/100 and Intel Core i9 12900K scores 69/100 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.

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) and Intel Core i9 12900K 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 69/100 for Intel Core i9 12900K.

It's close — Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) (70/100) and Intel Core i9 12900K (69/100) 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.