Apple M4 (8 Core) vs Intel Core i7 12700F
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple M4 (8 Core) leads Intel Core i7 12700F overall by 38 points (93 vs 55 out of 100).
- Apple M4 (8 Core) stands out on Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm.
Apple M4 (8 Core) leads overall
Apple M4 (8 Core)
93
Intel Core i7 12700F
55
Why it stands out
- 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 12700F
This is an entry-level processor designed for computing tasks that do not require high-end graphical fidelity or extreme computational throughput. It offers foundational processing power to users requiring an effective solution without needing one of Intel's flagship CPU models for demanding workloads.
Best for General ProductivityBest for Student UseBest for Home Computing
Pros
- Provides access to the well-established architecture of the 12th generation processors
- Offers sufficient core count and threading capability for basic productivity tasks
- Represents a cost-effective upgrade option that maintains modern performance standards
Cons
- The 'F' suffix indicates the processor lacks integrated graphics, requiring a separate dedicated GPU to function.
- Its lower tier placement means it is optimized for efficiency rather than peak high-multi-core performance.
Value for Money
Which is the better deal for the price
Pre-filled with launch prices where known — enter today's price for an up-to-date check. Use the same currency for both.
Apple M4 (8 Core)
Intel Core i7 12700F
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Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side