Apple M4 (8 Core) vs Intel Core i9 11900KF
Verdict
Our overall take, at a glance
Key takeaways
- Apple M4 (8 Core) leads Intel Core i9 11900KF overall by 43 points (93 vs 50 out of 100).
- Apple M4 (8 Core) stands out on Core Specifications Cores: 10, Core Specifications Lithography Process: 3 nm.
Apple M4 (8 Core) leads overall
Apple M4 (8 Core)
93
Intel Core i9 11900KF
50
Why it stands out
- Core Specifications Cores: 10
- 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 i9 11900KF
The Core i9 11900KF is a high-performance desktop CPU designed for demanding computing tasks. Its 'K' suffix indicates it can be overclocked, appealing to enthusiasts and power users who seek top-tier speed. It is built upon the 11th generation of Intel's product lineup.
Best for Content CreationBest for High-End GamingBest for Workstation Tasks
Pros
- High core count capacity allows it to handle extensive multi-threaded workloads.
- Being a high-end K-series chip suggests strong potential for customized performance boosts through overclocking.
- The design belongs to the 11th generation, placing it in a widely available and supported CPU architecture.
Cons
- As a non-integrated graphics model (indicated by 'KF'), the system requires a separate dedicated GPU.
- High-end Core i9 chips are generally power-intensive and require substantial cooling solutions for sustained 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 i9 11900KF
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Detailed Specifications
The full spec sheet, side by side