Apple A9X vs Apple M2

The Apple A9X, introduced in late 2015, was a key processor for the first iPad Pro, targeting creative professionals and demanding mobile users.

It was manufactured using the 16 nm fabrication process. Internally, it is equipped with an Apple A9X graphics unit and offers a maximum memory bandwidth of 51 GB/s. The cache configuration includes 3 MB L2 cache and 4 MB L3 cache. In terms of computing performance, the Apple A9X shows a fundamental capability for single-core tasks, while its multi-core performance was remarkable for its time.

It still offers satisfactory performance for simple applications and older software. The Apple M2, introduced in mid-2022, is a modern processor that powers Macs and iPad Pros, catering to a wide range of users, from mainstream to professional creatives.

It is manufactured using the advanced 5 nm fabrication process, leading to outstanding energy efficiency. Equipped with an Apple M2 (10 Core) graphics unit, it benefits from a high maximum memory bandwidth of 102 GB/s. Its 20 MB L2 cache contributes to its high performance. The Apple M2 significantly outperforms the Apple A9X in both single-core and multi-core performance, making it ideal for demanding applications and modern multitasking.

In a direct comparison of computing performance, the Apple M2 demonstrates significantly higher single-core and multi-core performance. Advances in architecture and fabrication process result in a substantially increased processing speed, far exceeding that of the Apple A9X. For gaming scenarios, the Apple M2 is clearly superior thanks to its much more powerful integrated Apple M2 (10 Core) graphics unit and higher memory bandwidth of 102 GB/s.

It can render more demanding games with smoother frame rates and better graphics quality than the Apple A9X, whose Apple A9X graphics unit and 51 GB/s memory bandwidth are limited for modern titles. Regarding energy efficiency, the Apple M2 is superior to the Apple A9X (16 nm) due to its 5 nm fabrication process.

This means that the Apple M2 consumes less energy for similar or even higher performance, leading to better battery life in mobile devices and more efficient heat dissipation. A direct price-performance evaluation is complex, as both processors are built into Apple products as System-on-a-Chip (SoC) and are not sold individually.

The Apple A9X is found in older, often used devices, while the Apple M2 is integrated into current devices and offers significantly higher performance for modern applications. In summary, the Apple A9X offers solid but outdated performance for basic tasks and older applications.

The Apple M2, on the other hand, represents modern, energy-efficient high performance for almost all current requirements. For users seeking a current and future-proof solution with high computing and graphics performance as well as excellent energy efficiency, the Apple M2 is the clear recommendation.

Those who only need an older device for very light tasks or specific nostalgic applications might still get by with a device containing the Apple A9X.