Apple M2 Max GPU vs Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)

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

For most buyers the Apple M2 Max GPU is the better pick — it scores 39/100 to the Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)'s 35, leading on Memory and Theoretical Performance. Choose the Apple M1 GPU (8 Core) instead if api support matters most to you, where it comes out ahead.

Apple M2 Max GPU has no published G3D Mark result, so it scores lower.
Apple M1 GPU (8 Core) has no published G3D Mark result, so it scores lower.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Apple M2 Max GPU and Apple M1 GPU (8 Core) are closely matched

Apple M2 Max GPU

Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)

Where Apple M2 Max GPU stands out

Memory Capacity: 32 GB (300% more)
Memory Bandwidth: 400 GB/s (300% more)
Theoretical Performance Performance (FP32): 13.6 TFLOPS (423% more)

Winner by category for Apple M2 Max GPU vs Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)
Category	Apple M2 Max GPU	Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)	Winner
Core Specifications	50	50	Tie
Memory	84	39	Apple M2 Max GPU
API Support	0	100	Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)
Theoretical Performance	64	43	Apple M2 Max GPU
Benchmark	20	20	Tie
Miscellaneous	32	32	Tie

In-depth analysisAI

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

Apple M2 Max GPU

The Apple M2 Max GPU is a high-performance integrated graphics processor built into the M2 Max system-on-a-chip, designed primarily for power-user notebooks and compact desktops. It features up to 38 GPU cores and delivers up to 13.6 TFLOPS of FP32 floating-point performance. Utilizing a unified design, it shares high-speed LPDDR5 system memory directly across the system to handle demanding visual workloads.

Best for On-the-go high-resolution video rendering and color gradingBest for Mobile 3D asset creation and complex visual effects work

Pros

Delivers high-end graphics performance with up to 38 GPU cores and 4864 arithmetic logic units
Provides up to 13.6 TFLOPS of single-precision floating-point capability
Features a dedicated 48 MB last-level cache to streamline data transfer and reduce latency
Leverages efficient unified memory access to eliminate traditional bottlenecks between CPU and graphics

Cons

Integrated system-on-a-package design prevents any post-purchase upgrades to GPU cores or memory
Provides lower performance limits than the desktop-focused M2 Ultra, which doubles the graphics hardware

Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)

The Apple M1 GPU is an integrated graphics solution built into the M1 series of System-on-a-Chip processors. It provides graphical processing capabilities alongside the CPU and unified memory for Mac computers and iPads. This hardware solution is designed to offer high performance, especially in power efficiency, for a range of everyday computing tasks.

Best for Creative professionalsBest for Students/ProductivityBest for General use

Pros

Integrated system approach ensures efficient data sharing between the GPU and unified memory.
The architecture allows for strong overall performance per watt across various applications.
Provides dedicated graphics horsepower suitable for creative workflows and media consumption.

Cons

Though designed efficiently, it is limited to the specific hardware generation of Mac devices using M1.
Compared to professional-grade desktop GPUs, its specialized focus may limit extreme rendering capabilities.

Value for Money

Which is the better deal for the price

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Apple M2 Max GPU

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Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)

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Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Core Specifications

Feature	Apple M2 Max GPU	Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)
Base Frequency	N/A	N/A
Maximum Frequency	1.398 GHz	N/A
Lithography Process	5 nm	5 nm

Memory

Feature	Apple M2 Max GPU	Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)
Technology
Bus Width	512 bit	N/A
Bandwidth	400 GB/s300% more	100 GB/s
Is Shared	Yes	Yes

API Support

Feature	Apple M2 Max GPU	Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)
DirectX Version	N/A	N/A
OpenGL Version	N/A	4.6
Vulkan Version	N/A	1.3
OpenCL Version	N/A	3

Theoretical Performance

Feature	Apple M2 Max GPU	Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)
Pixel Rate	N/A	74.3 GP/s
Texture Rate	N/A	47.7 GT/s
Performance (FP16)	N/A	5.2 TFLOPS
Performance (FP32)	13.6 TFLOPS423% more	2.6 TFLOPS
Performance (FP64)	N/A	N/A

Miscellaneous

Feature	Apple M2 Max GPU	Apple M1 GPU (8 Core)
Release Date	N/A	July 21, 2021
Platform

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 M2 Max GPU vs Apple M1 GPU (8 Core) comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M2 Max GPU rates higher at 38/100 versus 32/100 for Apple M1 GPU (8 Core) — a 6-point lead. Apple M2 Max GPU is the stronger overall pick, though the right choice still depends on which specs matter most to you; the full spec table above breaks down every difference.

Apple M2 Max GPU and Apple M1 GPU (8 Core) are compared side by side above across every spec in the gpus category — including performance, features and design — each scored 0–100 so you can see exactly where one leads the other. Our overall scores are 38/100 for Apple M2 Max GPU and 32/100 for Apple M1 GPU (8 Core).

If you want the higher-rated gpus option overall, Apple M2 Max GPU (38/100) edges out Apple M1 GPU (8 Core) (32/100). But if Apple M1 GPU (8 Core) is cheaper or stronger on the specific specs you care about, it can still be the better buy — use the spec table and strengths profile above to decide.