Apple M2 (8-GPU) vs Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU)

The Apple M2 (8-GPU), codenamed M2, was introduced as an energy-efficient processor for mainstream devices.

It targets users who need solid performance for everyday tasks and lighter creative work. The more advanced Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU), codenamed M4, targets professional users who demand the highest computing and graphics performance.

The Apple M2 (8-GPU) is manufactured using the 5 nm process and features an 8-core GPU with a maximum memory bandwidth of 102 GB/s and 20 MB of Level 2 cache. The Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU) uses the more modern 3 nm process. It offers 12 CPU cores, a 16-core GPU, 273 GB/s memory bandwidth, and 36 MB of Level 2 cache, enabling significantly higher parallel processing.

In single-core performance, the Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU) significantly outperforms the Apple M2 (8-GPU). In multi-core performance, the Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU) shows substantially higher performance for compute-intensive applications. Even in gaming scenarios, the Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU) offers superior performance for demanding titles thanks to its stronger GPU and higher memory bandwidth.

Both chips are energy-efficient. The Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU) achieves excellent performance per watt due to the 3 nm process but may have a higher power demand under full load due to the increased core count. The Apple M2 (8-GPU) offers good value for money for the broad market, while the Apple M4 Pro (12-CPU 16-GPU) delivers the highest absolute performance in the premium segment.