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

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i9 12900KF is the better pick — it scores 72/100 to the Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)'s 62, 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 12900KF leads overall

Intel Core i9 12900KF

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 16
Core Specifications Threads: 24
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 40,420 (24% more)

Winner by category for Intel Core i9 12900KF vs Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Category	Intel Core i9 12900KF	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)	Winner
Core Specifications	72	68	Intel Core i9 12900KF
Integrated Graphics	0	54	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Benchmark	72	60	Intel Core i9 12900KF

In-depth analysisAI

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

Intel Core i9 12900KF

The Intel Core i9 12900KF is a high-performance desktop processor built for the LGA1700 socket, featuring 16 cores and 24 threads. Released in late 2021, it features a base frequency of 3.2 GHz and can boost up to 5.2 GHz. Because it lacks integrated graphics, it is specifically designed for users who plan to pair it with a discrete graphics card.

Best for Heavy multi-threaded workloads such as video editing and renderingBest for High-end custom PC builds equipped with a discrete graphics card

Pros

High multi-threaded processing power with 16 cores and 24 threads
Fast peak clock speeds reaching up to 5.2 GHz
Unlocked design allows for custom processor overclocking

Cons

Lacks integrated graphics, making a dedicated graphics card mandatory
High maximum power consumption reaching up to 241 W under load

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

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 i9 12900KF

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Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Intel Core i9 12900KF40,420

Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)32,723

See the raw benchmark values →

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

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900KF	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Cores	16	12
Threads	24	12
Base Frequency	3.2 GHz	N/A
Base Power Consumption	125 W	N/A
Maximum Frequency	5.2 GHz15% more	4.51 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	241 W	N/A
L1 Cache	1,408 KB	N/A
L2 Cache	14 MB	36 MB157% more
L3 Cache	30 MB	N/A
Lithography Process	7 nm	3 nm57% less
Is unlocked	Yes	No

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900KF	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
Model	N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Intel Core i9 12900KF	Apple M4 Pro (12 Core)
PassMark CPU Mark	40,42024% more	32,723

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 i9 12900KF vs Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) comparison

They are closely matched: Intel Core i9 12900KF scores 71/100 and Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) scores 70/100 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 i9 12900KF and Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) 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 71/100 for Intel Core i9 12900KF and 70/100 for Apple M4 Pro (12 Core).

It's close — Intel Core i9 12900KF (71/100) and Apple M4 Pro (12 Core) (70/100) 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.