Apple M4 (8 Core) vs Intel Core i5 12600K

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

For most buyers the Intel Core i5 12600K is the better pick — it scores 66/100 to the Apple M4 (8 Core)'s 49, leading on Core Specifications and Benchmark. Choose the Apple M4 (8 Core) instead if integrated graphics matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Intel Core i5 12600K leads overall

Intel Core i5 12600K

Apple M4 (8 Core)

Why it stands out

Core Specifications Cores: 10
Core Specifications Threads: 16
Benchmark PassMark CPU Mark: 27,497 (33% more)

Winner by category for Apple M4 (8 Core) vs Intel Core i5 12600K
Category	Intel Core i5 12600K	Apple M4 (8 Core)	Winner
Core Specifications	86	60	Intel Core i5 12600K
Integrated Graphics	23	44	Apple M4 (8 Core)
Benchmark	61	44	Intel Core i5 12600K

In-depth analysisAI

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

Apple M4 (8 Core)

The Apple M4 is a specialized System-on-a-chip designed by Apple, forming the core processing unit for high-end devices, including modern iMacs and MacBook models. Featuring an advanced architecture that integrates CPU, GPU, and NPU components, it is primarily intended for professionals requiring strong performance in demanding creative and computational tasks.

Best for Professional Content CreationBest for AI/Machine Learning WorkloadsBest for High-Performance Computing (HPC)

Pros

Incorporates an advanced Neural Processing Unit (NPU) with a notable capability to accelerate AI workloads, compared to previous generations of the chip.
Supports hardware acceleration for modern functions like AV1 decoding, mesh shading, and ray tracing within its GPU architecture.
Employs high-speed LPDDR5X unified memory, offering substantial bandwidth to support multiprocessing applications.
The M4 series is built on a highly dense manufacturing process (3 nm), enabling the integration of numerous cores over 28 billion transistors.

Cons

Specific core configurations (CPU/GPU counts) vary greatly across its Pro and Max variants, which requires careful selection for targeted performance needs.
Memory bandwidth capacity is highly dependent on the specific model variant utilized, ranging from lower base limits to exceptionally high capacities.

Intel Core i5 12600K

The Intel Core i5 12600K is a 10-core, 16-thread desktop processor built for the LGA1700 platform. Introduced in late 2021, it offers a 3.7 GHz base clock with boost speeds up to 4.9 GHz and includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770. It targets users seeking a balanced mid-range CPU for gaming and desktop productivity with manual overclocking support.

Best for Mid-range gaming builds with room for manual clock frequency tuningBest for General desktop productivity tasks benefiting from multi-core processing

Pros

10 cores and 16 threads deliver solid multi-tasking performance
Unlocked processor allows for manual overclocking
High peak frequency reaching up to 4.9 GHz
Includes integrated Intel UHD Graphics 770 for display output

Cons

Maximum power consumption of 150 W requires effective cooling solutions
Requires an LGA1700 motherboard socket, necessitating a system upgrade from older platforms

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 (8 Core)

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Intel Core i5 12600K

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Performance

Higher benchmark score = faster

Apple M4 (8 Core)20,702

Intel Core i5 12600K27,497

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 M4 (8 Core)	Intel Core i5 12600K
Cores	8	10
Threads	8	16
Base Frequency	N/A	3.7 GHz
Base Power Consumption	N/A	125 W
Maximum Frequency	N/A	4.9 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption	N/A	150 W
L1 Cache	N/A	864 KB
L2 Cache	N/A	9.5 MB
L3 Cache	N/A	20 MB
Lithography Process	3 nm57% less	7 nm
Is unlocked	No	Yes

Integrated Graphics

Feature	Apple M4 (8 Core)	Intel Core i5 12600K
Model

Benchmark

Feature	Apple M4 (8 Core)	Intel Core i5 12600K
PassMark CPU Mark	20,702	27,49733% 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 (8 Core) vs Intel Core i5 12600K comparison

They are closely matched: Apple M4 (8 Core) scores 55/100 and Intel Core i5 12600K scores 55/100 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 M4 (8 Core) and Intel Core i5 12600K 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 55/100 for Apple M4 (8 Core) and 55/100 for Intel Core i5 12600K.

It's close — Apple M4 (8 Core) (55/100) and Intel Core i5 12600K (55/100) 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.