Apple A12Z Bionic vs Apple M4

The Apple A12Z Bionic was introduced in March 2020 and is primarily designed for the iPad Pro 2020, addressing mobile productivity and entertainment.

It is manufactured using a 7nm process and is based on the A12 architecture. The CPU features 8 cores, divided into 4 performance cores and 4 efficiency cores, as well as an integrated 8-core GPU named Apple A12Z. The Level 2 Cache is 8 MB. In terms of performance, the Apple A12Z Bionic offers solid single-core performance and adequate multi-core performance for everyday tasks.

For gaming, the integrated graphics unit, with a maximum memory bandwidth of 68 GB/s, delivers good performance for older and less demanding titles. As a mobile processor, it is designed for energy efficiency, enabling long battery life. It is found in older devices that offer good value for money today.

Introduced in May 2024, the Apple M4 is positioned as a flagship for the latest iPad Pro models and is aimed at professional users with the highest performance demands.

It is produced using an advanced 3nm process and utilizes the M4 architecture. The CPU has up to 10 cores, consisting of 4 performance cores and 6 efficiency cores, as well as a powerful 10-core GPU named Apple M4 (10 Core). Its Level 2 Cache, at 20 MB, is significantly larger than its predecessor's.

Single-core and multi-core performance is considerably increased compared to the Apple A12Z Bionic, offering noticeable advantages in computationally intensive tasks. For gaming, the stronger integrated graphics unit and the high maximum memory bandwidth of 120 GB/s allow for a smoother experience even with demanding games.

Thanks to the 3nm process, the Apple M4 offers excellent energy efficiency. It is a component of premium devices and justifies its price through superior performance for demanding users.