Apple M6 vs Intel Core i9 12900KF

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 76/100 to the Apple M6's 63, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Apple M6 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 M6

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 16
Core Specifications Threads: 24
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 40,420 (13% more)

Winner by category for Apple M6 vs Intel Core i9 12900KF
Category	Intel Core i9 12900KF	Apple M6	Winner
Core Specifications	85	63	Intel Core i9 12900KF
Integrated Graphics	0	55	Apple M6
Benchmark	71	64	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.

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

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

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 M6

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Intel Core i9 12900KF

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M635,823

Intel Core i9 12900KF40,420

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	Apple M6	Intel Core i9 12900KF
Cores	12	16
Threads	12	24
Base Frequency	N/A	3.2 GHz
Base Power Consumption	N/A	125 W
Maximum Frequency	N/A	5.2 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	241 W
L1 Cache	N/A	1,408 KB
L2 Cache	N/A	14 MB
L3 Cache	N/A	30 MB
Lithography Process	2 nm71% less	7 nm
Is unlocked	No	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M6	Intel Core i9 12900KF
Model		N/A

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M6	Intel Core i9 12900KF
PassMark CPU Mark	35,823	40,42013% 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 M6 vs Intel Core i9 12900KF comparison

They are closely matched: Apple M6 scores 71/100 and Intel Core i9 12900KF scores 71/100 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 M6 and Intel Core i9 12900KF 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 Apple M6 and 71/100 for Intel Core i9 12900KF.

It's close — Apple M6 (71/100) and Intel Core i9 12900KF (71/100) 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.