Apple M2 Max GPU vs Apple M4 GPU

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

The Apple M2 Max GPU and Apple M4 GPU are closely matched at 38 and 37/100. The Apple M2 Max GPU edges ahead on Memory and Theoretical Performance, while the Apple M4 GPU leads on Core Specifications and API Support — pick the one whose strengths match what you'll actually use.

  • Apple M2 Max GPU has no published G3D Mark result, so it scores lower.
  • Apple M4 GPU has no published G3D Mark result, so it scores lower.

Verdict

Our overall take, at a glance

Key takeaways

  • Apple M2 Max GPU and Apple M4 GPU are closely matched overall (within 1 point).
  • Apple M2 Max GPU stands out on Memory Capacity: 32 GB (100% more), Memory Bandwidth: 400 GB/s (233% more), Theoretical Performance Performance (FP32): 13.6 TFLOPS (216% more).
  • Apple M4 GPU counters with Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm (40% less).
Apple M2 Max GPU and Apple M4 GPU are closely matched
Apple M2 Max GPU
38
Apple M4 GPU
37
Where Apple M2 Max GPU stands out
  • Memory Capacity: 32 GB (100% more)
  • Memory Bandwidth: 400 GB/s (233% more)
  • Theoretical Performance Performance (FP32): 13.6 TFLOPS (216% more)
Where Apple M4 GPU stands out
  • Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm (40% less)

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 M4 GPU

The Apple M4 GPU is an integrated graphics processor designed for mobile platforms, manufactured using an efficient 3-nanometer lithography process. Operating at a maximum frequency of 1.4 GHz with a peak power draw of 20 watts, it features a unified memory architecture sharing up to 120 GB/s of bandwidth.

Best for Power-sensitive mobile workflowsBest for Tasks requiring fast access to unified system memory
Pros
  • Highly efficient 3-nanometer lithography process
  • Low maximum power draw of 20 watts suitable for mobile designs
  • Unified memory architecture with a 120 GB/s bandwidth rate
Cons
  • API support is limited to older standards, including OpenGL 4.1 and Vulkan 1.2

Value for Money

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Apple M2 Max GPU

Detailed Specifications

The full spec sheet, side by side

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Apple M2 Max GPU vs Apple M4 GPU comparison

Based on our overall comparison score, Apple M2 Max GPU rates higher at 38/100 versus 33/100 for Apple M4 GPU — a 5-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 M4 GPU 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 33/100 for Apple M4 GPU.
If you want the higher-rated gpus option overall, Apple M2 Max GPU (38/100) edges out Apple M4 GPU (33/100). But if Apple M4 GPU 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.

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