Apple M4 (8 Core) vs Intel Core i7 12800HX
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple M4 (8 Core) leads Intel Core i7 12800HX overall by 36 points (93 vs 57 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 12800HX
57
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 12800HX
The Intel Core i7 12800HX is a high-performance mobile processor designed for demanding computing tasks. It belongs to Intel's 12th generation Alder Lake series and features a hybrid architecture combining different core types. This CPU is best suited for users who require robust performance in professional, creative, or gaming contexts.
Best for Content CreationBest for High-Performance GamingBest for Workstations
Pros
- Features an advanced 12th-generation hybrid core architecture for optimized processing power.
- The high-end ('HX') designation indicates it is built for demanding sustained workloads.
- Its inclusion in the Alder Lake series represents a significant architectural advancement over previous generations.
Cons
- As a mobile chip, its peak performance and thermal requirements increase significantly with power draw.
- The hybrid core structure requires system optimization to maximize efficiency across different tasks.
Value for Money
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Apple M4 (8 Core)
Intel Core i7 12800HX
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Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side