The launch of Apple‘s new M2 processor for MacBooks and desktops ushered in a new era for Apple silicon. This cutting-edge chip offers incredible performance and power efficiency. But how does it compare against one of Intel‘s top-tier processors, the Intel Core i9? This in-depth guide examines the specifications, benchmarks, pricing and real-world capabilities of the M2 vs i9 to see which processor reigns supreme.
Apple M2 and Intel i9 Specs Comparison
First, let‘s overview the key specifications of each processor:
| Specs | Apple M2 | Intel Core i9 12900H |
|---|---|---|
| Cores/Threads | 8-core / 8 threads | 14-core / 20 threads |
| Base Clock Speed | 3.49GHz | 2.5GHz |
| Boost Clock Speed | Up to 3.4GHz (Efficiency) Up to 3.2 GHz (Performance) |
Up to 5.0GHz |
| GPU Cores | 10-core | 96 EUs (Execution Units) |
| GPU Clock Speed | Up to 1.5GHz | Up to 1.65GHz |
| Memory Support | 24GB unified memory | Up to 128GB DDR5 4800MHz |
| Manufacturing | 5nm | Intel 7 (10nm SuperFin) |
Comparing the specs side-by-side, the key advantage Intel has is more processor cores and threads, which allows for significantly higher multi-core performance potential. The i9 also supports over 5x more maximum memory.
However, Apple‘s M2 chip is built on a cutting-edge 5nm manufacturing process allowing impressive power efficiency. And while Apple doesn‘t disclose exact transistor counts, the M2‘s 8-performance core architecture is optimized for both high-efficiency and peak output when needed.
Performance Benchmarks: M2 vs i9
But processor specifications don‘t always translate directly into real-world speed and capability. Independent benchmark test results reveal more about actual performance…
In Geekbench 5 testing, the M2 scored 1,919 for single core and 8,928 for multi-core. Comparatively, the i9-12900H averages around 1,730 and 13,590 according to Notebookcheck‘s benchmark database.
So while the i9‘s 14-cores trump the M2 for serious multi-tasking, Apple‘s chip is 12% faster for single core speed. Since most common tasks don’t leverage all cores simultaneously, this indicates snappier response times for mundane computing.
Graphics rendering sees a similar trend…
In GFXBench 5 Aztec Ruins testing, the M2 scored 54.7 fps versus the i9‘s 48.1 fps. For context, both processors outpaced competitors like the Ryzen 7 6800U at 47.5 fps and Snapdragon 8 Gen 1 at 20 fps.
But for GPU-accelerated tasks, Apple‘s custom silicon and unified memory architecture provide a real advantage. Content creators working with video editing, 3D modeling and GPU-based ML training may see significant performance gains on the M2.
Pricing and Availability Comparison
A key consideration many shoppers face is cost and availability when choosing between the M2 and Intel i9 processor.
As Apple custom silicon, the M2 chip is only available pre-installed in recent Mac laptops and desktops like:
- MacBook Air starting at $1,199
- 13" MacBook Pro starting at $1,299
- Mac Mini starting at $599
There is no option to purchase the M2 standalone for installation in custom PC builds. You have to buy an M2-equipped Mac device.
In contrast, Intel sells the flagship i9-12900HK silicon to laptop OEMs starting around $550. PC enthusiasts can buy unlocked i9 chips separately to install in desktop rigs for gaming and content creation. More budget 12th-gen Core i5 and i7 models are also available.
This open ecosystem gives Windows users more flexibility and upgradability. But Apple fans must commit fully to the Mac side for access to leading Apple silicon.
Thermal Design and Power Efficiency
Cutting-edge manufacturing processes allow processors to deliver speed and capability efficiently without excessive heat or battery drain.
Intel‘s mature 10nm process powers the 12th-gen Core i9 processor to respectable results. But Apple‘s custom 5nm silicon in the M2 chip takes efficiency to the next level.
In a Windows 11 VM test conducted by popular YouTuber Quinn Nelson, an M2 MacBook Air peaked at just 75°C under heavy load over extended stress testing. Impressively, it held peak performance without any thermal throttling. That‘s incredible for an ultra-portable laptop without a fan!
However, Windows compatibility using emulation does impact battery life longevity considerably. In native macOS usage, Apple quotes up to 18 hours of video playback longevity on the M2 MacBook Air. For perspective, equivalent Windows ultrabooks with 12th-gen i9 processors deliver roughly half that runtime off a charge.
If balancing productivity and portability is important, the cool, fanless M2 design certainly excels. But gamers and power users desiring ultimate sustained performance may still benefit from advanced thermal solutions and battery capacities found in higher-end Windows laptops.
Future-Proofing and Upgradability
For those making a significant investment in a new system, upgradability should be considered as well. The differences between Apple and Intel‘s approaches are quite substantial in this department.
The M2 processor belongs to Apple‘s new custom silicon family which requires macOS. While Apple silicon Macs can run Windows via emulation, it‘s an imperfect workaround rather than native dual boot support.
This means once you go Mac, you‘re locked into Apple‘s upgrade path for the foreseeable future. Any software or peripheral compatibility issues must be resolved within Apple‘s ecosystem.
Meanwhile Intel enjoys a healthy competition with AMD to spur rapid innovation on industry-standard Windows machines. DIY PC builders enjoy near-unlimited customization in configuring the optimal chip, memory, storage and components for their needs which can be upgraded over time.
So Apple machines may retain great resale value, but could require replacement every ~5 years to stay current. Savvy Windows users stretch upgrade cycles further with strategic component swaps.
Which Processor is Best For You?
With so many considerations around performance, compatibility, efficiency, pricing and longevity, is difficult to crown either the Apple M2 or Intel i9 an undisputed champion universally.
For creators focused on video editing, 3D rendering and GPU compute acceleration, the excellent multi-tasking chops and sheer power efficiency of the M2 makes a compelling case to go Mac. Compelling new M2 Pro and M2 Max MacBook Pro models take this even further.
Gamers and tinkerers seeking ultimate frame rates and versatility are better served by Intel‘s Core i9 unlocked processors and the Windows platform. Not only does Windows support far more games natively, but the DIY PC approach offers future customization that high-end Mac devices prohibit.
There are certainly trade-offs either direction, so assess your budget, workflow needs and desired ecosystem carefully. But for many shoppers, the well-rounded experience Apple‘s new M2 silicon provides is going to hit the sweet spot of both productivity and content creation thanks to excellent efficiency and benchmark-topping performance.
FAQ: M2 vs i9 Processor Questions
Is the M2 processor faster than the Intel Core i9?
Yes, in both single and multi-threaded workloads common for creators and knowledge workers. But the i9 clinches leadership in heavily multi-threaded scenarios like code compiling or 3D modeling exports.
Can I buy an M2 chip separately to build my own PC?
No, Apple M2 processors are currently only available pre-installed in new M2 MacBook Air/Pro models and the Mac Mini desktop.
Which is better for gaming: M2 or i9?
The Intel i9 is better suited for gaming PC builds thanks to stronger Windows application support and higher frame rates when paired with a dedicated gaming GPU.
How does Apple‘s M2 compare to the i9-13900K?
The latest 13th Gen Intel Raptor Lake chips like the i9-13900K do outperform the M2 in nearly every metric. But Apple just launched the M2 Pro and M2 Max successors stacking up far more favorably versus Intel‘s best. Expect Apple‘s silicon roadmap to continue aggressively evolving.
No matter your workflow, both the Apple M2 and Intel Core i9 represent the pinnacle of mobile processor technology available today. By understanding their respective strengths and limitations, you can make the best choice for your needs and budget. Both are impressive feats of engineering that will enable next-generation productivity and creative pursuits.
