Apple M1 (7-GPU) vs Apple A17 Pro

The Apple M1 (7-GPU), introduced in late 2020 for Macs like MacBook Air and Mac mini, uses a 5 nm process.

It offers an 8-core CPU (4 performance, 4 efficiency cores), a 7-core GPU, and PCIe 4.0. The memory bandwidth is 68 GB/s with 16 MB L2 cache. The Apple A17 Pro, unveiled in late 2023 for high-end iPhones, is manufactured using the more advanced 3 nm process (Ibiza).

It integrates a 6-core CPU (2 performance, 4 efficiency cores) and a 6-core GPU. Its memory bandwidth is 51 GB/s with 20 MB L2 cache and 24 MB L3 cache. In single-core performance, the Apple A17 Pro shows advantages due to its newer architecture, while the Apple M1 (7-GPU) delivers stronger performance in multi-core tasks thanks to a higher core count.

For gaming, the A17 Pro offers advantages in mobile games with hardware ray tracing; however, the M1 can provide more sustained graphics performance in desktop devices. As a mobile processor, the Apple A17 Pro is significantly more energy-efficient (under 10 Watts TDP). The Apple M1 (7-GPU) has higher consumption (10-25 Watts) for sustained performance.

Neither CPU is sold individually. The M1 offers good value for money in Macs, the A17 Pro in premium iPhones. For sustained multicore performance in desktops, the Apple M1 (7-GPU) is recommended. For leading single-core performance and mobile gaming, the Apple A17 Pro is the better choice.