AMD EPYC 9654 leads Apple M2 Pro 12 Core overall by 41 points (100 vs 59 out of 100).
AMD EPYC 9654 stands out on Core Specifications Cores: 96, Core Specifications Threads: 192, Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 320 W.
AMD EPYC 9654 leads overall
$11,805 at launch
AMD EPYC 9654
100
Apple M2 Pro 12 Core
59
Why it stands out
Core Specifications Cores: 96
Core Specifications Threads: 192
Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 320 W
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
AMD EPYC 9654
The AMD EPYC 9654 is a high-core count server microprocessor designed for intensive computing tasks. It utilizes the Zen 4 microarchitecture to deliver significant parallel processing power and connectivity via enterprise-grade features. This processor is best suited for data centers, cloud infrastructure, and complex computational workloads.
Best for Cloud ComputingBest for High Performance ComputingBest for Data Analytics/AI Workloads
Pros
Provides up to 96 cores per socket, enabling massive parallel processing capacity.
Features advanced I/O capabilities, including extensive PCIe and support for CXL (Compute Express Link), which can improve overall system bandwidth.
High memory channel support allows the processor to efficiently handle large data sets required by demanding applications.
Cons
The high core count and specialized architecture make it unsuitable for end-user desktops or general personal computing tasks.
Performance is optimized for maximizing throughput in complex server environments rather than single-threaded responsiveness.
The Apple M2 Pro is a powerful system-on-a-chip designed for professionals who require extensive creative and computing capabilities. It uses Apple's custom architecture, offering a significant boost in performance over previous generations of Macs. This chip powers devices intended for demanding tasks such as complex video editing, graphic design, and software development.
Best for Professional video editingBest for High-resolution graphic designBest for Software development
Pros
It provides a strong balance of processing power through its specific core count of 8 performance and 4 efficiency cores (unbinned model) (Source 1)
Users benefit from high bandwidth memory with LPDDR5, providing fast data transfer across all components (Source 1)
The integrated GPU is designed for enhanced graphics performance, suitable for demanding visual workloads (Source 1)
It supports advanced connectivity features including Thunderbolt 4 (Source 1)
Cons
Its existence within a tiered system means that even its professional versions are surpassed by the M2 Max and M2 Ultra options in workstation contexts (Source 1)
Performance scaling is tied to specific chassis models, meaning users must select hardware based on required memory bandwidth (Source 1)
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
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Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side
Core Specifications
Feature
AMD EPYC 9654
Apple M2 Pro 12 Core
Cores
96
12
Threads
192
12
Base Frequency
2.4 GHz
3.5 GHz
Base Power Consumption
320 W
30 W
Maximum Frequency
3.7 GHz
3.5 GHz
Maximum Power Consumption
400 W
30 W
L1 Cache
6,144 KB
1,536 KB
L2 Cache
96 MB
32 MB
L3 Cache
384 MB
24 MB
Lithography Process
5 nm
5 nm
Is unlocked
No
No
Integrated Graphics
Feature
AMD EPYC 9654
Apple M2 Pro 12 Core
Model
N/A
N/A
Benchmark
Feature
AMD EPYC 9654
Apple M2 Pro 12 Core
PassMark CPU Mark
126,045
26,457
Specification Note
Specifications are compiled from official manufacturer data and other reliable internet sources. Some features may vary by region or model configuration.