Apple M6 vs Intel Core i9 12900KS

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i9 12900KS is the better pick — it scores 74/100 to the Apple M6's 62, 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 12900KS leads overall

Intel Core i9 12900KS

Apple M6

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 16
Core Specifications Threads: 24
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 43,378 (21% more)

Winner by category for Apple M6 vs Intel Core i9 12900KS
Category	Intel Core i9 12900KS	Apple M6	Winner
Core Specifications	85	63	Intel Core i9 12900KS
Integrated Graphics	22	47	Apple M6
Benchmark	74	63	Intel Core i9 12900KS

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 12900KS

The Intel Core i9 12900KS is a top-tier desktop processor designed for the LGA1700 platform, equipped with 16 cores and 24 threads. It features a maximum boost clock frequency of up to 5.5 GHz alongside integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770. Built for enthusiasts and demanding power users, it prioritizes extreme single-core and multi-core performance, though it demands a robust cooling solution to manage its thermal output.

Best for High-framerate PC gaming requiring top-tier single-core clock speedsBest for Demanding multi-threaded tasks such as video rendering and 3D animation

Pros

High peak clock speeds reaching up to 5.5 GHz
16 cores and 24 threads provide strong multi-threaded performance
Unlocked design allows for manual user overclocking
Includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 for display output without a discrete GPU

Cons

High maximum power consumption reaching 241 W under heavy workloads
150 W base power requirement requires substantial thermal management

Official

Official specificationsProvided core technical specifications including core/thread count, clock speeds, cache sizes, power draw ratings, and integrated graphics details.

Video — reviews used (3)

Generated Nov 3, 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 M6

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Intel Core i9 12900KS

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M635,823

Intel Core i9 12900KS43,378

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 M6	Intel Core i9 12900KS
Cores	12	16
Threads	12	24
Base Frequency	N/A	3.4 GHz
Base Power Consumption	N/A	150 W
Maximum Frequency	N/A	5.5 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 12900KS
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M6	Intel Core i9 12900KS
PassMark CPU Mark	35,823	43,37821% 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 12900KS comparison

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

Apple M6 and Intel Core i9 12900KS 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 70/100 for Intel Core i9 12900KS.

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