Apple M2 Pro vs Apple M1
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple M2 Pro and Apple M1 are closely matched overall (within 1 point).
- Apple M2 Pro stands out on Core Specifications Cores: 10, Core Specifications Threads: 10, Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 35 W.
Apple M2 Pro and Apple M1 are closely matched
Apple M2 Pro
57
Apple M1
56
Where Apple M2 Pro stands out
- Core Specifications Cores: 10
- Core Specifications Threads: 10
- Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 35 W
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 2026.
Apple M2 Pro
The Apple M2 Pro is a specialized system-on-a-chip (SoC) developed by Apple Inc. that powers professional computing devices, such as high-end laptops and desktops. It integrates a powerful multi-core CPU with high-performance integrated graphics and unified memory architecture. This processor is designed for demanding users who require significant computational power for creative or intricate workflows.
Best for Professional creative workloadsBest for High-performance computing tasksBest for Intensive multi-media production
Pros
- Offers advanced processing capabilities due to its System on a Chip (SoC) design
- Includes a substantial amount of L2 cache, specifically 24 MB as noted in its high-performance specifications
- Utilizes an energy-efficient architecture suitable for sustained, demanding tasks
- The comprehensive SoC structure handles CPU and GPU operations within a unified system model
Cons
- Its specialized nature means it's intended primarily for professional and advanced use cases.
- Specific detailed performance metrics relative to newer or higher-tier silicon are not provided in the grounding sources.
Apple M1
The Apple M1 is a System on a Chip (SoC) created by Apple Inc. primarily intended for use in their suite of Macintosh computers and iPad Pro tablets. This chip provided a powerful, integrated alternative to traditional CPUs, making it suitable for users who require strong performance while maintaining portability and efficiency.
Best for Creative professionalsBest for General productivity and multi-tasking
Pros
- Offers high performance relative to its power consumption, which is ideal for demanding computing tasks.
- Integration of multiple components (CPU, GPU, NPU, memory) onto a single die improves system efficiency and speed.
- The architecture supports the usage across various Apple devices, from minimalist desktops to powerful laptops.
Cons
- It is an older generation chip compared to newer product lines (M1 Pro/Max), potentially limiting future hardware upgrade paths for certain users.
- While highly functional, some advanced use cases may require more specialized or higher-core count chips available in later iterations.
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Enter today's price for each product to see which offers better value. Use the same currency for both.
Apple M2 Pro
Apple M1
Performance
Higher benchmark score = faster
Apple M2 Pro14,500
Apple M110,500
Benchmark score — a measured indicator of raw performance, not a guarantee of real-world speed.
Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side