Apple M1 vs Google Tensor

The Apple M1 processor, architectural name M1, was introduced in November 2020 and targets users of Apple Mac computers, iPad Pro, and iPad Air who are looking for high energy efficiency and integrated computing power.

Manufactured using a 5 nm process, it features an 8-core CPU (four high-performance, four high-efficiency cores) and an 8-core Apple M1 graphics unit. With 16 MB of Level 2 cache and a maximum memory bandwidth of 68 GB/s, it delivers significantly higher single-core and multi-core performance than the Google Tensor.

This is also evident in superior gaming performance due to the optimized graphics unit. The Apple M1 is also known for its outstanding energy efficiency and low Thermal Design Power. Its price-performance ratio is tied to the cost of Apple end devices. The Google Tensor processor, architectural name G1, was launched in October 2021 and is primarily designed for Google Pixel smartphones, with a focus on AI and ML functions.

Also manufactured using a 5 nm process, it integrates an 8-core CPU (two high-performance, two mid-performance, four high-efficiency cores) and an ARM Mali-G78 MP20 graphics unit. With 8 MB of Level 2 cache and a maximum memory bandwidth of 53 GB/s, it offers solid performance but does not reach the level of the Apple M1 in general CPU and GPU benchmarks.

The graphics performance is sufficient for mobile gaming but less potent. The Google Tensor is optimized for energy efficiency in the smartphone sector; its price-performance ratio is also linked to the respective Google Pixel devices.