Apple M1 vs Intel Core i7-12700H

The Apple M1, introduced in November 2020, is a 5 nm SoC with an 8-core CPU (four high-performance, four efficiency cores), 16 MB L2 cache, and 68 GB/s memory bandwidth, optimized for energy efficiency and Apple integration.

The Intel Core i7-12700H, released in January 2022, is a 10 nm (Intel 7) mobile processor of the Alder Lake H architecture with 14 cores (six performance, eight efficiency cores), 20 threads, 12 MB L2, 24 MB L3 cache, and 83 GB/s memory bandwidth, for high-performance notebooks.

In single-core performance, both processors are comparable. For multi-core applications, the Intel Core i7-12700H is significantly superior due to its higher core count. For gaming, Intel Core i7-12700H systems (often with dedicated graphics) offer broader compatibility. The integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics 96 is suitable for casual gaming.

The Apple M1, with its integrated 8-core GPU, delivers considerable performance, but the game selection on macOS is more limited. The Apple M1 is characterized by excellent energy efficiency, which enables long battery life. The Intel Core i7-12700H requires correspondingly more power and stronger cooling for its higher performance.

In terms of price, M1-based Apple devices are often in the premium segment. Intel Core i7-12700H notebooks from various manufacturers offer a greater variety of configurations and price points. The Apple M1 offers outstanding energy efficiency and strong single-core performance, ideal for mobile use and creative tasks within the Apple ecosystem.

The Intel Core i7-12700H shines with superior multi-core performance for computationally intensive applications and broader software compatibility, especially in gaming. Recommendation: Choose the Apple M1 if energy efficiency, long battery life, and a seamless Apple experience are priorities.

The Intel Core i7-12700H is the better choice for demanding multi-core workloads and gaming on the Windows platform.