Apple M4 (8 Core) vs Intel Core i7 1255U
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple M4 (8 Core) leads Intel Core i7 1255U overall by 43 points (93 vs 50 out of 100).
- Apple M4 (8 Core) stands out on Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 15 W, Core Specifications L3 Cache: 16 MB, Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm.
Apple M4 (8 Core) leads overall
Apple M4 (8 Core)
93
Intel Core i7 1255U
50
Why it stands out
- Core Specifications Base Power Consumption: 15 W
- Core Specifications L3 Cache: 16 MB
- Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm
In-depth analysisAI
AI-generated from the cited sources — may be incomplete or inaccurate; verify important details before deciding · generated Jun 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 i7 1255U
The Intel Core i7 1255U is a high-efficiency mobile processor built on 12th generation architecture. It is designed for portable computing needs where optimal power consumption and balanced performance are required. This chip targets users who prioritize battery life and responsive operation in every day use case, such as general productivity or web browsing.
Best for general productivityBest for ultrabooksBest for educational use
Pros
- It belongs to the Alder Lake U-series family, known for its focus on low power draw efficiency
- The 12th generation architecture utilizes a hybrid core design pattern for improved efficiency and performance management
- Its suitability as a mobile component allows it to provide good functionality in thin, battery-powered laptops
Cons
- As a U-series chip, its peak performance output is constrained compared to higher-power (H or HX) desktop/mobile variants
- It is intended for mainstream computing tasks and may struggle with sustained, heavy workloads like video rendering or complex compiling.
Value for Money
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Apple M4 (8 Core)
Intel Core i7 1255U
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Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side